I think I want a c-section due to history but consultant talked me down... is it a bad idea?

[Mousefunky]

I’ve had three DC and the first two deliveries were really traumatic- shoulder dystocia and forceps with #1 and retained placenta and haemorrhage with #2 requiring two blood transfusions. My third delivery was the only one that went ok although I did initially start to lose a lot of blood, they managed it with an injection to stem the flow. I also had a MMC last year which led to a haemorrhage and another blood transfusion. I was so, so sick after both that and DC2 and it’s obviously a very scary thing to experience.

I’m now 27 weeks with DC4 and the MW referred me to a consultant for the 16 week appointment (which was at 20 weeks). Purely because the third delivery went ok, the consultant didn’t advise a c-section. That and she also said you have a tendency to bleed more after a caesarean. When I have read into it, it transpires the blood loss risk is more with emergency c-sections rather than elective due to the cervix already being dilated.

I can’t help but think a c-section would be more controlled and safe... I see the midwife on Wednesday and I want to ask again but I always feel really talked down by medical professionals. Just wondering if anyone else thinks it could be safer or is it better to risk a natural delivery?

Just quickly, I personally think that given you've had two haemorrhage, a calm planned elective ceasarean would be a very good idea.

I agree with the PP.

Unfortunately when you are given statistics about C-section complications they mix emergency and elective C-section complications together. This leaves it up to you to find out the truth.

If possible when you see the consultant again go with someone else who is able to stand up for you by asking the consultant your questions in a different way.

.

I was talking to DP about it last night and I just think it’s safer to be in a theatre surrounded by medics who are dedicated to my safety and well-being as well as my baby’s rather than risking being rushed to theatre again during a natural...

I would have thought it would be a no-brainer to have a section after my history but the consultant seemed dead set against it and she discharged me back to my MW so I guess the midwife will have to refer me back there? Agh!

Mouse, I have heard that if a consultant refuses a c-section, you can ask to be referred to another. Perhaps discuss this with your midwife. I agree about taking someone with you to help you fight your corner. I will be requesting a c section if / when I fall pregnant again (due to 3rd degree tear and PPH with my first) and already have my mum lined up to come with me and prepped what to say/ask! Fwiw, I think the consultant you saw has treated you poorly and in your position I would definitely keep fighting for an ELCS. Good luck!

I had a similar birth for DC1 - forceps, 3 litre haemorrhage, multiple transfusions.

I was traumatised and refused to have a vaginal birth for DC2. I had no problems getting an elective section and lost only 500 ml during it.

What do you want to do?

Hi op

Im in similiar situation
I hemmorage after delivery. Most being 2.5l and least 1.5l (x3 deliveries)
I bleed as my womb doesnt contract after
Delivery

With my youngest they knew it would happen so preventatives were put in place-
Active 3rd stage
Had the drip up and some tablets they administer up bum (these saved my life time before) and fluids up before it all kicked off

Im currently 35+ weeks pregnant and will have to have section due babys position

All the consultants ive seen have been against sections in my case until we realised baby isnt moving position.
It really is risky.
You will bleed more
From the incision and because of the other reasons we bleed (be it vaginally or by section)

Like you I was adamant things CAN be put into place. I see the anaethatiest today who can give me more info and consultant in a few days to book section date.

Its upto you how you want to deliver but it is more risky if you have history of pph and the hosp do try to stay away from those situations

I’m not naturally a ‘bleeder’, this was the main reason the MW referred me to a consultant as she wanted to clear up whether I have some sort of blood clotting disorder. The consultant was clear that if I did, I would have heavy periods and heavy bleeding following things such as dental treatment which I never have. She explained the reason I have bled so much is that because I have large babies (two were 10lb + babies), my uterus has lost its tone and ability to contract efficiently. So I’m a little dubious about a section causing more bleeding than a natural delivery if that’s the sole reason I bleed.

I do just think being in a room full of medics ensures my safety. In the past I had two midwives and the red button was pressed the first two times, cue loads of people rushing in and me being rushed to theatre. Same happened after the MC last year, I was rushed down to theatre after doctors rushed in from all angles. I’m beyond terrified that will happen again .

Ahh see, I am.
My periods are horribly heavy.
I lose big clots.
(Mirena helps me loads)

Even if you are a bleeder things can be done to prevent pph.
You're better off with elective rather than emergency and that would be one of the main argue points, less chance of bleeding in a controlled, calm situation rather than having a section due to a problem

I do hope they see sense and agree

Will hopefully have more info for you once ive seen them today

Just wanted to let you know what ive been told by the anaethatiest today

He said lots of women bleed for lots of diff reasons. Its something they see everyday and can be handled. He wasnt concerned one bit. He said theres lots in place that they can do if needs be

This was a consultant anaethatiest that had a reg alongside him

I would tell your consultant you've had discussions with anaethatiest and they are happy to take on someone like yourself as they dont think theres an extra risk factor etc and if you do bleed heavily theres lots in place they can do/ use and they see it all the time so can be handled well but better to be elcs rather than emcs as the uterus has spent so much time working you bleed more with emcs.

Ahh thank you so much for that! That’s an enormous help . I’m definitely going to raise all of the above points. Tbh I doubt I’d see the same consultant again, I had a couple of consultant appointments with DC1 due to his size and never saw the same one so hopefully I would have a different more understanding consultant next time.

Ive got another consultant appt on thurs to discuss birthplan
Baby is very big (41 weeks at 35 weeks) and has unstable lie
Was told very unlikely for them to let me go past 37 weeks (next week) heres hoping!

Hope they listen to you