ELCS after first traumatic birth

[Willow4987]

Hi all

I’m not currently pregnant (1st DS is only 8 weeks old) however I feel traumatised from his birth (physically and mentally). I’m considering speaking to someone at the hospital about this

DS is an IVF baby and we are lucky enough to have more embryos in the freezer if we wanted another child

However his birth was traumatic...everything was going swimmingly until it became clear he was back to back, turned half way through labour and got stuck....fast forward through 5 hours of pushing and I ended up having an episiotomy and forceps

I’d said all along I didn’t want forceps and would rather have had a c section but at the time I was so exhausted I just wanted the spinal block so would have agreed to anything

As a result of the forceps there’s been the unfortunate side effect of fecal incontinece/urgency. I’m trying to do my pelvic floor exercises but I’m absolutely terrified that even if I gain some sort of control now, any subsequent vaginal birth would cause irreversible damage - especially as I think id want an epidural straight away and this can mean a higher likelyhood of forceps etc again

So...my question for those who’ve experience a similar situation and gone onto have a second child...how likely is it that I would be considered for ELCS?

Sorry to hear you’ve had such a traumatic time.

Well, I can’t comment on your exact situation, but I’m having my first baby and I’m allowed to have an elective c section, due to anxiety and mental health problems.

I seriously doubt you’ll be refused

Hi op, I had a traumatic first birth with episiotomy and forceps and consequently had a massive pph. I was terrified of giving birth again and having complications.
I spoke to people at the hospital about my birth and also suffered with pnd, but with help eventually it went.
My second birth (only 14 months later!) couldn't have gone better. I also had the epidural and was worried about forceps again, but luckily ds just slid out

Sorry, I didn't actually answer your question!
I asked my midwife about a section because I was worried and she said I could if I wanted, but because the biggest concern was another pph they advised against it because you are more likely to bleed with a section.
I can't see it being an issue for you to have a section if you wanted one

I had an elcs because of a potential risk of future fecal incontinence. It was a great delivery and the recovery was so much better.

I had a traumatic forceps delivery and have just had an elective c section! I didn't have any trouble getting it. I made sure they knew how stressful it was for me and that I understood the risks of a c section.
I must say the c section birth was amazing and so relaxed.

Hi OP I haven't had your situation but I'm having an elective section and I've not had to push for it at all. I have ibs so I have concerns around that issue. Hospital been great and just referred straight to consultant for consultancy on c section so I don't think you will have a problem. I read on the guidelines than even if a hospital refuse they must advise you of a hospital that will. I hope that you are feeling better soon after the traumatic time you've had x

I had a traumatic first labour and delivery (different reasons to yours) and my consultant immediately agreed to a planned c-section for my second, due in a few weeks. From what you've said I can't see it being a problem.

Thanks everyone. It’s reassuring to hear so many people being granted c sections when requested. Makes me feel a bit less anxious if we were to have a second child

Very similar first birth and after effects to you, teamed with nerve damage and urinary incontinence/ urge. I was adamant no more but find myself pregnant with DC2. Have a had a section agreed from 16 weeks!