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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

Cancelling ECV for C-section

8 replies

theruffles · 05/07/2018 10:12

I'm almost 37 weeks with my first baby and had a growth scan yesterday, which found the baby is measuring slightly on the small side and is also breech. Up until now the baby has been measuring fine though we've known they've been in a breech position since about week 30.

The hospital talked us through the options of having either an ECV and trying to turn the baby into the right position and then being induced on Monday because of their size, or opting for a C-section. This all came as quite a surprise to us - we were at the hospital for 6+ hours yesterday and felt drained, and trying to make a decision about whether to opt for an ECV or C-section was made quite quickly. The hospital were clear about the pros and cons of both methods and I ended up choosing an ECV, thinking it sounded the less risky of the two options. The hospital staff were not pushy and didn't favour one method over the other when discussing options with us.

I've since changed my mind overnight and have done some reading about the relatively low success rate of ECVs. I also don't feel 100% comfortable with it now I've had a few hours to think about it - I feel as if my baby is in the position they're in for a reason and trying to move them almost doesn't sit right with me now. I feel more comfortable with the idea of a planned C-section, and have called the hospital to cancel the ECV in favour of a C-section this morning.

I think I'm just looking for a bit of reassurance or advice from people that may have found themselves in the same situation. I've never had a set idea about how I would give birth; I've always been happy to just see what happens and go with the best option at the time, so the whole ECV with an induction in the hopes of a natural birth does not really bother me that much.

OP posts:
fieryginger · 05/07/2018 11:24

I've not had this procedure. I've just watched a video of it on YouTube, out of curiosity, I found it informative. Here's the link:

theruffles · 05/07/2018 11:36

Thank you. I watched that video this morning and found it informative too. An ECV apparently has a success rate of 50% and, if it doesn't work, would result in a C-section anyway.

OP posts:
zaalitje · 05/07/2018 11:40

My son was breech and I was offered ECV and induction (they wanted to deliver at 39 weeks), I declined as I felt it was too risky to baby, i also had a 'feeling' that labour would be a bad idea.
Very glad I did as he was born with a knot in his cord (rare) and labour would have killed him.
Go with your gut OP, btw my planned section was a calm experience and whilst the first couple of days weren't comfortable I healed quite quickly after that.

I

walkingtheplank · 05/07/2018 11:44

You must do what feels right for you. Obviously yesterday was a full-on day but good for you for reflecting and changing your mind - your prerogative after all.
You can still have a very nice birth experience with a C-section and if your baby is well enough he/she could be put straight to your chest for instant bonding (just have the gown open).
Have a lovely birth experience.

hellohello12345 · 05/07/2018 12:19

I've had a planned c section 5 months ago and found it to be a good experience. Much better than my first c section which was an emergency one. Recovery was fine and baby happy. I was home 24 hours later. Up and walking 8 hours after the op. Go with your gut OP - there's no right or wrong way to have a baby. Wishing you lots of luck xxx

theruffles · 05/07/2018 13:04

Thank you for your replies Smile I think going with my gut instinct for the C-section is the better option. I tend to think your gut feeling is always the right one to take!

OP posts:
APermanentlyExhaustedPigeon · 05/07/2018 13:08

My baby was a footling breech and they wanted to do an ECV and were horrid to me when I declined, phoned me every day for nearly a week trying to get me to go in.

Had a planned c-section as natural delivery was considered too high risk with baby in that position. Two two consultants to pull baby out as they were firmly wedged! I think an ECV would have caused significant problems.
Definitely go with your gut! Flowers

Grumpos · 05/07/2018 13:29

I’ve been thinking about this a lot bc baby is still breech at 32 weeks (although I know and hope he might move to head down) yet.

After researching, my partner and I have decided a planned section would be preferable over an EVC. I imagine a planned section is very different to emergency and you can still have a lot of the elements like music, akin to skin and delayed cord clamping. I feel like I’d be a lot less worried or stressed if it’s planned in.

Some women report an EVC being successful and go on to have great VB’s but like you, I can’t help thinking my little boy has been in this position for months and if he doesn’t move of his own accord before I’m full term then maybes it’s best not to force him!
Good luck Smile

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