Elective c-section?! Is it possible...

[CloMo1995]

Is it possible to have a elective c-section this time around? It's my 4th baby and I've had the other 3 all naturally but always been cut/torn, my first 2 boys I had to be cut, first for forceps and second for ventouse. And then with my daughter I had a 3rd degree tear.
I'm really scared to put my lady bits through that again so I was wondering if i could possibly ask for a c-section and they agree?
The thought of labor this time is filling me with dread because of it.
I dont want to seem like I'm taking the p*ss by asking my midwife and she just turn around and tell me it's not possible because then I will feel like a idiot. I dont see her for another 3 weeks anyway and by that point I will be 34 weeks do getting close to labor day. (I've never gone to my due date so she doesnt expect I will this time either) so the sooner I know if I could have one or not the better.
Sorry I've gone on abit of a tangent, I'm just really panicky and nervous about this lol! Thanks.

[Pinktruffle]

Everyone has the right to request an elective C-section. Hospitals don't always agree to it but you can asked to be changed to a hospital/constulatant who will agree to it. They will question you regarding it and go through the risks but if you are sure it's what you want, stand firm.

[RoosterPie]

Depends on the trust - I am having an elective section very soon because of damage from a previous birth. I think some hospitals are more open to it than others and the pandemic may have an effect, but you’re certainly entitled to ask.

Make sure you are clear about your reasons, and the effect on you of your previous birth injuries. They may try to put you off by amplifying the risks of a section and down playing the risks of VB so you need to go prepared.

I might be wrong but I think if they say no they have to transfer you to another trust (again, this process has been affected by the pandemic I believe).

[Ginfilledcats]

You can request a c section for any reason. Most will grant it if it's for medical or mental health reasons without question. Your reasoning falls in the former. I really wouldn't worry

[BornOnThe4thJuly]

They’ll want to know you’re aware of the risks both to you and your baby. I wrote out my reasons for wanting a section and the risks and that I was happy with them. I gave that to the consultant and she said “I can see you’re not going to change your mind” then got the diary out and booked it in there and then.
There is research to show that planned sections are actually less risky than a “natural birth”. The data usually looks at sections as a whole though which obviously includes emergencies where something has gone wrong already.
I hope they listen to you, and you get the birth you want.

[Gammeldragz]

My sister got one, after much arguing with her consultant and it sounds like yours is even more justified. Often it depends on your local trust and likely less of them being done in the current crisis, but you can certainly express your wishes.

[2007Millie]

No idea, but just wanted to say I had an EMCS with my first and it was a magical experience compared to my 4 friends vaginal births so I totally understand you wanting an elective one!