No to forceps and ventouse?

[susie100]

Hello all,
I am new on here and expecting first baby in 2 months time. Just finalising my birth plan and wondering how hospital will react to 'no forceps or ventouse' on my birth plan?
I strongly feel that if things aren't going to plan despite position changes, active labour etc I would rather have c-section than an instrumental delivery. Am terrified of being cut, horrific tears etc and of any effect instruments can have on the baby. I know there are risks with c-section too but am prepared to take that risk. Would either want to do it naturally (I know you can tear but less extreme generally) or have a scar Ican see! Many people seem to be of the view (which I share) which is either natural and intervention or c-section. It is the in between, loss of control, scary interventions which seem to be the stuff of birth trauma!
Do they have to listen to me? I know they need my consent to perform anything but could they refuse a c-section if I refuse instrumental if you see what I mean?
Thanks in advance for your help!

Hi Susie

Glad the stories have been helpful. Just to reiterate - please try not to worry too much when you read horror stories. They are in the minority and as others have said, few people post their wonderful experiences! Perhaps it might be time to do a bit of self-censorship and just avoid reading the obviously horrible ones!

As some reassurance, my medical team were brilliant. I had a midwife with me every step of the way, and they all kept me informed as to what was happening.

susie, I havent read all the replies so sorry if I'm repeating things...
most births go smoothly and it's likely that you wont need anything (especially if you dont have an epidural it seems) however if they need to get the baby out then instrumental might be quicker and better for the baby.

I also was v against instrumental delivery but the baby was in distress and forceps were needed. The baby was coming out too fast but they needed forceps to help her along. I asked if it was absolutely necessary, they said YES - you cant argue with that. The baby was fine and that's really all you care about at the time. (I'm fine too btw!)

Try not to worry about it - I didnt even show my birth plan as had to be induced at 14 days+. Things I would do different with hindsight (if induced) are TAKE Drugs and personally I will request a section if induced again. Hope it all goes well and you'll have your gorgeous baby in your arms soon.