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Original poster

37 weeks and no birth plan?

16 replies

MissDaisy18 · 15/08/2018 12:27

I've previous mentioned that we're on a consultant led pathway due to an error in recording medical details (incorrectly classified as former IV drug user).

However we've tried to talk about preferences for the birth to the consultant at about 30 weeks who told us to speak to the midwife, then at the next midwife appointment they told us to speak to the consultant.

So we have a consultant appointment tomorrow which will be our last chance to discuss things. We're really hoping for a C-section but I can't believe that there hasn't been a chance to discuss this yet - is this normal?

The classes we've been to (at the same hospital) have mentioned birth plan a lot - is this something that we/they're supposed to have written down? Worried that we'll have no say in the event!

any thoughts appreciated,

MD

OP posts:
BlueBug45 · 15/08/2018 12:39

Ask for your C-section and go from there.

I think the reason they ask you to write/complete a birth plan is to ensure you research and know about all the kind of things that happen in labour. I'm saying that as someone who is categorised as high risk so doesn't have all options open to her.

pastabest · 15/08/2018 12:46

I didn't have a birth plan for either DC but then I wasn't hoping to have a c section either

The birth plan is literally just a wish list and is in no way any kind of indication of what will actually happen at the birth. It's irrelevant really as it's an actual conversation you need to have with someone that can actually agree/arrange your c section.

I would have thought if you are hoping for an elective c section you need to be getting on to that ASAP, aren't they usually booked in for 39 weeks?

Gojira · 15/08/2018 12:51

I was about to say 'go with the flow'

However, if you need a c section for medical reasons then there really does need to be some kind of plan in place!

Push for this tomorrow.

Gojira · 15/08/2018 12:53

Oh wait, I misread your OP.

So it was an error that lead you to be under consultant care? In that case I really don't think they will just agree to a c section.

With that in mind, your birthing plan could include a preference on drugs, water birth etc but I wouldn't go too indepth beyond that!

Original poster
MissDaisy18 · 15/08/2018 13:02

You can 'opt' for a c-section can't you?

OP posts:
NerrSnerr · 15/08/2018 13:05

I think the NICE guidelines say you can request a c section but those are just guidelines. The consultant doesn't have to agree to giving someone surgery if it's not needed.

Bumblealong1 · 15/08/2018 13:05

As the others have said your birth plan is something you turn up with on the day/ when in labour which outlines your wishes. It’s things like: if possible, I would love to use a water pool/ I would like to guidance and encouragement with pushing / I would like to delay all non- urgent checks on the baby after birth so We can have optimum skin on skin time.
They’re all just things you think you would like and of course you have to be open to them changing.

If you want a C-section that has to be discussed and booked in advance. If you are asking for a C-section tomorrow I would go in with a clear argument as to why you want one and with an understanding of the NICE guidelines in terms of your rights to have one

pastabest · 15/08/2018 13:10

I think you can request one but unless there's a physical clinical reason to have one you will probably be asked to justify why you should have one (e.g for mental health reasons) and if those reasons aren't deemed to be enough then they will probably say no.

C sections are expensive in comparison to natural births and the NHS has to opt for the most cost effective option first.

Many people who want to have an ELCS pay privately to have one for that reason, it's where the unkind phrase 'too posh to push' originates.

Grumpos · 15/08/2018 13:13

Yes you can discuss the reasons why you want to elect for a section - we have a choice of how / where we deliver although for an elective cs you’ll probs have to work quite hard to get the consultant to readily agree. Make sure you have clear reasons and discuss this either with your partner or family etc beforehand so that you are confident in your reasons and ability to communicate them.
Even though some people say birth plans are pointless it is still worth considering things like whether you want skin to skin after birth or should the baby be cleaned first, whether you want delayed cord clamping, whether you would allow students to be present etc - it’s not all about the actual delivery choices which of course can take different turns from your ‘plan’.
I think at least noting down your preferences focuses your mind and adds a positive note - I don’t understand how women walk to delivery not having even considered the different aspects of labour. Even if it goes out the window within 10 minutes it’ll make you feel more organised and focused in the lead up to birth.

Original poster
MissDaisy18 · 15/08/2018 13:25

Thank you for clarifying.

The main reason was because of chronic back pain. This is now coupled with a baby who recent scans have suggested to be between the 90-97th percentiles for all measurements. Would these be considered legitimate reasons for a c-section?

OP posts:
sar302 · 15/08/2018 13:51

Hi Miss Daisy, honestly that's unlikely to be enough.

If they were concerned about the baby's size or pre existing health conditions affecting your birth, they would have told you by now. Especially as you're consultant led. My baby was on the 91st and considered big, but not problematically big in terms of vaginal delivery.

Definitely get a copy of the guidelines on line and honestly, you're probably going to have to be a bit of an arsehole about it! But if it's important to you then don't stop til you get what you want.

Good luck

Original poster
MissDaisy18 · 15/08/2018 14:13

Thank you - so by the sounds of it the NICE guideline on choice is enacted differently in practice?

OP posts:
Nichola2310 · 15/08/2018 14:46

I also have back problems and my consultant said no to a section but said she would refer me to the anaesthetist to discuss pain relief. Based on my back problems and the fact I won’t be allowed an epidural the anaesthetist recommended a section. I met again with my consultant the following day and she still is saying I don’t need a section. I’m 36+3 and still have no idea how I’ll be delivering!

InDubiousBattle · 15/08/2018 14:58

I remember your original thread op, I can't believe that there's still an issue with that error on your notes. They sound totally incompetent. You can't leave your appointment tomorrow without some concrete plans for your birth. If you're going to have an elective section they're obviously usually done earlier than your due date. As I understand it (from my friend who requested one a few cry rears ago) if a section is denied by a consultant then they need to refer you to someone who will give you one. They will try very hard to put you off one. Can I ask why you would prefer one (feel free to tell me to poss off!).

Anjied · 15/08/2018 22:52

You can request a c-section for non medical reasons. The consultant will tell you the pros & cons of both birth types & stress how a normal birth is better but they should still advise you it's your choice how you want to have your baby & if that is by c-section they should allow it.
I have just done this with my hospital & been given an approx date for my c-section
Good luck

Anjied · 15/08/2018 22:57

Forgot to say I am 35 weeks & it only just got confirmed but was told my has been confirmed early
Had first consultants a month ago

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