Consultant app re birth choices - how to prepare?

[toasterstrudle]

I'm only 14 weeks with dc2 and in a turmoil about birth options. With dc1 my waters went at home and contractions started. Contractions progressed very quickly but no dilation then baby's heartrate plummeted and I was rushed for emcs. Waters went at home at 1:30am and baby was out by 5am to give an idea of timeframe.

it was all really scary and I felt extremely out of control. I'm now starting to get worried about what to do second time.

I'd like to go in prepared for consultant app as I want to ask questions but worry it'll just be a quick app where they ask what I'd prefer. I've read up on some statistics but both VBAC and ELCS seem frankly terrifying unless you have an intervention-free VBAC, which seems unlikely. The recovery of elcs with a toddler is worrying me too.

Does anyone have any recommended research pre-app? I was wondering also about doing some hypnobirthing courses just to relax me a bit. I'm a worrier at the best of times.

I understand your concerns but it's early days yet. I would go to the appointment with an open mind and see what the advice is. It will vary depending on all sorts of issues..... Let the professionals take some of the strain.

Experiences vary but many have elective sections which are extremely straight forward. A VBAC attempt may lead to another emergency section.

You may find the advice makes the decision for you. Good luck.

Personally I would go ELCS in your shoes, as it would give you a greater sense of control.

However, as you've found out from your reading there are risks (and benefits!) either way. So I think the best thing is just to pick one and try not to overthink or worry too much about it. Obviously that's easier said than done...

Should add I had NVD with first and elective section for medical reasons with second. When section was recommended I was extremely upset but it went well and I felt much more in control.

Consultant appointment after a traumatic birth should be a long one. I was an hour in there. I’d suggest you write down what happened to you the first time for your own benefit so you have something to look at and also a list of all the questions you want to ask.