Elective section request

[eastview]

Hi everyone. I'm thinking about requesting an elective section but a bit worried that they will push back. I have looked into it and I really think it would be the best option for us. I've had a hard pregnancy and feel like being able to control the birth is massive, my partner also has autism so having a plan in place will benefit him also. I'm just wondering what other peoples experiences are with this and also did you have to fight for them to approve?

I was under the impression unless medically needed they won't even discuss it, could be different for different areas. I can't see them allowing it because your partner is autistic though

Hey @boymummys it says on the NHS website that you can request one for non medical reasons and if they won't do it they HAVE to refer you to someone that will. Just don't have the energy to argue although I will if need be. The main reason for the request is they told me some of my daughters brain was missing but it's not and I've been pulled and pushed around and I've just had enough and want a plan and a day etc and to be able to control as much of the rest of my pregnancy as possible

I didn’t have to argue at all. I requested it and she accepted it. I had had one c section before though (which wasn’t elective) so I’m not sure if that had any sway.

Also, they’ve taken away c-section numbers as a “target” for the NHS so the consultants are probably under less pressure to dissuade you than they were before.

Maternal choice is a thing. If the consulate doesn't like it they need to refer to one that is ok with it.

Make sure you are fully clued up on risks etc. but ultimately it's your choice

I requested one and got it with little trouble. I had to go for a meeting with the head midwife to discuss the risks and I did loads of research beforehand on the risks and benefits of both types of birth.

I took a table of the statistics with me and just explained that I understood the c-section risks and felt they were preferable to me over the vaginal birth risks. They basically just wanted to be sure I understood the risks of having an operation and then they were happy to agree.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

@boymummys

I was under the impression unless medically needed they won't even discuss it, could be different for different areas. I can't see them allowing it because your partner is autistic though

Anyone can request a section for any reason....my friends DF just had one ad she had a fear of natural birth....they can't just refuse because its non medical.

DD

I have tokophobia (fear of childbirth) and requested a c section at my booking appointment. I have been supported in that choice the whole way through - but I prepared myself for an argument (RCOG data on birth injuries etc, info from Birthrights on a mother’s right to choose how she gives birth) as I had heard it would be difficult. I’m glad I didn’t have to use any of it in an argument but it helped speed up consultant appointments as it proved I had looked into c section vs vaginal birth in detail and had decided the risks of a c section were more acceptable to me. Good luck.