Should I request a c-section?

[bassingtonffrench]

I have given birth naturally twice before. I'm not keen to repeat the experience.

The reasons I think a c-section might make sense for me are as follows

1. my two previous babies have been huge, 9.6llb and 9.3llb (context, I am a size ten)

1. my most recent birth involved a 'shoulder dystocia'. I think this is a fancy term for 'baby got stuck'. the midwives seem to be taking this very seriously as a risk to the new baby as it can repeat. I've been refered to a consultant for this reason.

1. I was pushing for hours each time and had second degree tears. I know many people have worse but I'm not sure my pelvic floor can take another battering. last time it took me about a year to have an orgasm again. I'd be really embarrassed to talk to anyone about this but it is a concern of mine that any future damage would be permanent.

1. I'm older this time. 39. which I know carries higher risks generally.

1. I have a history of depression. this is another reason why I have been referred to a consultant.

1. I hate childbirth!

I'm not one to make a fuss normally but I'm really beginning to feel that a c-section might really be the best option for me, given I've already had a second labour which was no better than the first, in fact, it was worse. I don't think they'll suggest it unless I do. I've already had my booking in.

Any advice or experiences very gratefully received. I may also post in childbirth.

I'm having an elcs in 11 days time. I had a 4th degree tear last time along with shoulder dystocia and suffered with pnd, ptsd and had a post partum hemorage.

All the way through its been no issue for consultants to agree to do a section but i found it interesting that when the doctor booked it into the diary they have to state reason and she said previous shoulder dystocia rather than 4th degree tear. I would therefore say that SD is enough of a valid reason on its own to argue the case in your favour.

I've had c section and natural and natural is defo better with regards to recovery. But you sound like you have gone few a hell of a lot with your previous two. When u see the consultant express your concerns and he will discuss all the options with you. My friend had a 9lb 6 baby so when she fell again she was monitored closely and was given a c section which she asked for herself. I think it depends on the consultant. Good luck and congrats x

I have had 1 "ordinary" emcs and 1 crash section under GA, so can't really comment on elective cs, but bear in mind that recovery from a cs is slow - even the best recovery would be a couple of weeks before walking any significant distance or lifting much, a few weeks longer for driving. Mobility is pretty restricted for some time. With my crash csection I couldn't stand up straight for 9 weeks, then my wound got infected...

You just might want to consider how csection recovery will impact on your lifestyle and looking after your older dc.

craving cake thanks yes the shoulder dystocia seems to be the thing that is freaking them out more than anything. I actually don't remember it being that bad, at least it didn't feel like there was an emergency, but I was pretty out of it at the time. good luck with your section!

zara and bike, thanks for the thoughts. I am not blase about c-section recovery. I know it is not a walk in the park. However, my children are older now so at least I am not lifting them up all the time like toddlers.

C-section recovery can be longer, but I'm guessing you weren't out doing the Scottish reel very soon after your last pregnancy either? I've had 2 c-sections and was up and about within the day, just had to avoid reaching up high for a bit. Recovery rates vary. If you feel a c-section would be best for you, then get one. And don't let midwives get in your way (they'll try to).

Shoulder dystocia is very serious. Having done a bit of reading since i found out that theres 1 in 200 chance of SD occuring but if you have had it during previous birth you are more likely to have this again.

Anyone who says its just where the baby is a little bit stuck doesnt know what its like. When the doctor drops the forceps on the floor and calls out SD and you suddenly have all the midwives & about 20 paediatric staff already in the room around you pushing your legs one way and belly another and baby comes out blue and has to go straight onto a resuscitor table, and you look at your dh for reassurance that everything is ok and he's white as a sheet you then realise its serious.

You will know what the right decision is for you. It may be worth going through your notes from last time to find out the timeframe and seriousness of your SD which will help you weigh up the risks.

I had an elcs last time (breech baby) and am hoping for vbac this time as I have a toddler who needs lifting in and out of car etc. But in your place I'd be asking for an elcs for sure. Yes the recovery is a bit of a pain but it's not that bad. I was up and about after 24 hours. I think recovery from emcs can be quite a bit harder.

here is the thread you need :) www.mumsnet.com/Talk/pregnancy/a1849354-Elective-C-Section-medical-non-medical-reasons

I had shoulder dystocia with my first and as a result had an elcs with my second (two weeks ago!)

DD wasn't stuck for long, but that's because the staff reacted so quickly. I had a post partum haemorrhage and needed a blood transfusion and dd needed her shoulder x-rayed to check for breaks. Thankfully she was fine and hasn't suffered any ill effects as a result.

I know a few people who haven't been as fortunate. In the worst cases shoulder dystocia can lead to deprivation of oxygen which can cause brain damage and even death and personally know people who have had these outcomes

With that knowledge there was no way I was going to choose a natural birth (and I enjoyed my labour with dd!) The hospital were fine with my decision and when ds came out almost a whole lb heavier than dd most of the staff said what a good choice I'd made!

I'm actually recovering better from my section than my natural birth! But it's been tough not being able to lift dd

Thanks so much for all your responses. I really appreciate it.

peeapod I will take a look at that thread. it is a whole world I knew nothing about!

fobbly and craving I'm wondering if I had a 'real' shoulder dystocia as my experience sounds nowhere near as bad as either of yours (ie. no alarms, resuscitation, xrays etc). I guess there are probably degrees of severity for shoulder dystocia? Its hard to know without seeing my notes. However, after the birth the midwife made a point of making sure I understood there had been a problem with his shoulder because she said it would affect any subsequent births.

no chance i thought! but look at me now!

I am definitely going to ask for a c-section as I think the risks really stack up. Will let you know how i get on.