Declined c section even though high risk!!??

[2020lockdown]

hoping to get some advice. Essentially, my pregnancy is high risk because of baby (not because of my own health). He has a cleft lip and palate, and to cut a long story short we’ve had a very very rough pregnancy (we were told by a doctor he had Edwards Syndrome at 20 weeks, and then told he doesn’t! Results came back clear etc.). So a very tough ride but everything looking ok now and he’s growing well. I’m now 33+3 and today my request for a c section was pretty much ruled out by my consultant. I was so surprised by this given the journey we’ve been on and the baby is still technically high risk, and needs a full assessment by a surgeon when he comes out. Can anyone shed some light as to how I make this c section happen? I’ve considered all the risks, and am fully confident that this is my birthing preference. I now feel so uneasy that we have only weeks to go and I have no birth plan in place or date etc. and deflated that given what’s happened I even have to fight to get this c section.

Ask to be referred elsewhere if your consultant won't put you forward for an elective c-section. Assuming your in UK you are entitled to a c-section for purely maternal request - you do not need to have medical grounds to have one. If your current consultant won't agree on maternal request it is their duty to refer you to someone who will.

I had an ELCS in my first pregnancy, as maternal request as it was my belief it was the best option for me. The first consultant tried to put me off, said some ridiculous things, give me stats etc, but ultimately said have another few weeks to think and discuss it at your next appointment. I happened to see a different consultant at that next appointment who just asked if I still wanted a section and then did the paperwork immediately with no further comment.

This was 2.5 years ago, I guess they may try to put you off more now due to the pandemic - but you still have the right.

I understand that your pregnancy is “high risk” however from what you have said there is nothing that makes you or baby unsuitable for a vaginal birth therefore the caesarean will be classed as ‘maternal request’ rather than medical need.

Unfortunately many hospitals are denying maternal request caesarean sections due to Covid19, it’s awful but sadly there isn’t an awful lot you can do about it except ask them to reconsider.

The guidelines support maternal request ELCS yes however they come second to the emergency pandemic response and with the shortage of anaesthetist’s many hospitals are experience it’s just not possible. Almost all elective surgery has been cancelled across the U.K, including cancer surgery etc. due to this.

"High risk" is essentially a meaningless term though, unless it is individualized. It can mean any and all manner of things.

A baby with cleft palate is not at higher risk in labour. Cleft palate will obviously need early assessment and intervention after birth but on its own it isn't an indication for CS.