Can you opt for a C-Section over an Induction?

[sunshinecitrus1]

It is something that is playing on my mind at the moment. I still have a few weeks to go before due date but I really don't want to be induced. (It might not even come to that but you know how your mind likes to run wild!)

Can you opt for a C-Section over an Induction? I am guessing the midwives try and encourage you otherwise (especially if you have had a low risk pregnancy like I have so far) but I just wondered whether anyone else had asked this question to their midwife before.

Thanks!

I was induced for gestational diabetes - arbitrarily based on hospital policy - no issues with baby or growth etc. From 20 weeks I asked for a caesarean but was basically bullied and rubbished by 3 different consultants, using lines like 'it's not like the beckhams you know, you won't have staff to help you after the major surgery' 'you should at least try and have a natural birth instead of having the baby ripped out' (genuine quote) .

After I refused to consent to a sweep 2 weeks ahead of my due date, a consultant convinced me to on the basis that if it didn't start things off naturally, she would maybe agree to a c- section. Then the same thing a week later, that if I agreed to the gel pessary, I might be allowed a c section and so on. After 3 meetings a week, travelling 1.5 hours each way by bus, I was so exhausted that I consented, on the basis that I did not consent to syntocynon - which I wrote in red marker all over the birth choices sheet that no one read or would allow me to discuss. The pessary did start labour, after 24 hours with only paracetamol because they didn't believe me, I was in so much pain and so exhausted that I just nodded when they said they were going to give me syntocinon. It ultimately resulted in an emergency section under general anaesthetic. When I first met my baby, he was dressed and had been fed twice. 3 years later, battling ptsd and £4k worth of therapy later, we're all OK, but I really hope other women don't have to go through this and are listened to more than I was. (I did make a complaint to the hospital, which got a standard "we will pass your feedback on" response

@Curiosity101 I really hope my baby comes naturally by 41 weeks too! The only concern I have is if I wait to find out without mentioning it as soon as possible to my MW is that they won't be able to book me in for a c-section when required. I am completely with you with trusting your body and baby - Have you done Hypnobirthing?

@Friendlyghostmama So sorry to hear your story, that sounds horrendous! I most definitely do not want that happening to me and I will be speaking up about what I feel comfortable with and what I do not. I am just hoping I have to deal with a nicer bunch of consultants than you had!

@sunshinecitrus1 I have done Hypnobirthing yes 🙂. And I can see what you mean but as they can't force an induction or c-section on you I just want to emphasise that you don't have to opt for one over the other. But equally that you absolutely can opt for a c-section over and induction. You might have to fight to get it if there's not obvious medical reason but you do have the right to request the birth you want.

Just try to make the decision that feels right for you (based on your research etc). Then explain why you've made that decision to your care providers and ask how they will be able to support that decision. Whether that be section, induction, no interventions or something else entirely ☺️

@Curiosity101 I could tell by your advice you had done Hypnobirthing! The Positive Birth Company has been a life saver for me! Ah I understand what you mean now, I think I misunderstood before. You're right, I can't be forced to do neither. My MW has been great so far so if it does come to having to make decisions like this in a few weeks time, I hope she will be supportive and it not have to be a hard struggle with her and the consultants! Time will tell. Wishing you all the best with the rest of your pregnancy

@sunshinecitrus1 Thanks ☺️ you too! Really hope you have a lovely birth (whatever mode your baby is born by!). ☺️

Just remember most people only write about their negative experiences (and there are plenty of horror stories about CS too - my friends wound was infected and she caught sepsis, her and the baby spent their first 4wks in hospital, it's really major surgery and not an easy option). Not being able to lift your baby afterwards for several weeks also needs to be considered.

I had two inductions leading to two very pleasant straightforward unassisted births. I loved every minute (epidurals also helped me enjoy them so much) zero pain, relaxed, calm, no tears and not a single stitch needed. Full feeling back within the hour and walking about. In February giving birth to DD I was home just a few hrs later.

Most inductions (most CS, most natural births) are fine. Just be aware of what you could be potentially giving up for fear of something that probably won't happen xx

@MaryShelley1818 Thanks Mary for your comment, that is really great advice and so nice to hear of your positive inductions experiences as well I hope my birth goes as well as your ones!

[quote sunshinecitrus1]@Jchina Did you get referred to a consultant by your midwife to discuss your options or was your pregnancy consultant led?[/quote]
I saw the consultant because he was a “big” baby (over 95th centile on scan) so the appointment was to discuss that as far as I remember!

@Jchina Thanks for confirming! I was just curious