Can I 'request' a CS at 38 weeks?

[CareerGirl01]

As I've probably posted before I had DD1 four years ago via EMCS. When I got pregnant with DC2 I kept an open mind about an ELCS, saw consultant midwife a month ago and she said there was no reason - given my history - that I should not have a VBAC. Well last week - after a bleed and emergency admission to hospital - I've decided I'm going to have the ELCS - the consultant ob was pushing me that way anyway.
The hospital I'm booked in to normally do CS's at 39 weeks. I'm being a bit selfish but my digestive system appears to be so messed up that to have a CS booked in for 38 weeks (which is what DS had with both of hers) would feel like a bit of a blessing at the moment. Or are there good reasons why they wait till 39 weeks. DC is measuring fine for 31 weeks and is on course to weigh about about 7lbs 7oz at term.

Generally consultant obs would prefer to leave it as late as poss, hence the 39 weeks which is pretty standard I think. You might be able to try and argue your case for 38 weeks, but be prepared for them to turn you down. The closer to term the CS, the better it is for your baby, particularly lungs (with babies born by CS, because they aren't pushed through the birth canal, can have more problems breathing - as lungs are pretty much the last things developmental wise, this is why they prefer to leave it later).

Hi Elly was given steriod injections last week to help DD2 (she's a girl I may as well start using that now1) in case she came early. Would that make a difference. DD1 was born at exactly 42 weeks - had no breathing problems, but then she was fully cooked.

I had this conversation with my consultant last week! She said that the effect of the steroid injections actually wears off after a few weeks, so although that will help if she arrives earlier, it probably won't make any difference by 38/39 weeks.
Have they booked your ELCS yet? And when is your next consultant appt? I would probably try to persuade them to book you in earlier - it worked for me!!

there are differences in rates of respiratory distress of newborn at 38vs 39 weeks. the steroids probably reduce these risks but unless real need i would leave to 39 weeks.
details in green top guidelines...royal college o&g
good luck with your new arrival!

I'm booked in at 38 + 5 but only because its Easter weekend and they can't risk a trial of labour with me, I need to go get steroids the few days before section because its before 39 weeks