Should elective C sections for no reason be allowed?

[Dori92]

Just curious on people’s opinions on this.

Would like to point out I’m not opting for an elective section.

Thanks 💞

What’s your opinion?

There's always a reason.

Why offer no thoughts at all?

Writing a piece for a magazine?

Paid to come up with talk topics?

Yes- as someone who works within the obstetric field, I would say that women have the right to choose. Unfortunately these days with the NHS in the state it's in, many women have lost faith in the maternity care system and so opt for an elective c section so they have control over their birth and can exercise autonomy over their body.

This is not to insult the many hard working and dedicated staff in this field- everyone is over stretched and there isn't always enough resources to go around.

Well it's never for no reason... If someone opts for one purely because that's their preference, that's still a reason.

I presume you mean no medical reason? I think yes absolutely it should be allowed, body autonomy and all that. But perhaps if there is a higher cost associated with c-sectioms (I'm not aware if there is) then maybe there should be a cost to the patient?

They aren’t in my local hospital.

If you're not opting for one... What's it got to do with you? There's always a reason I'd imagine even if it's just "the mother wants to". I think you might get lynched for this....

Women wanting one isn't a reason? What an oddly dismissive attitude towards women.

This is an icky, judgemental and inflammatory post.

Yes maternal choice c section should be allowed and is supported by NICE guidelines which are evidence based.

Move on.

Yes.

What does "no reason" mean to you, OP?

Yes, no question. My body, my choice.

Always maternal choice. Whether direct medical reasons, mental health or personal choice - choice is the word.
Great Sunday times article a few weeks ago about the over emphasis on 'normal birth' and the unfortunate outcomes.

No, women should have to give birth hanging from a tree with no pain relief whatsoever because it’s natural innit.

🙄

(I had an elective section following a traumatic vaginal birth).

The cost question isn't really cut and dry. A section costs more upfront then a 'good' virginal birth, but a virginal bith requireing interventions can easily cost more, especially once you factor in the cost of treating possable complications down the line (eg. contanence issues or prolapse)

Of course. Who are we to deny someone their choice of birth? And there’s always a reason - fear of labour, preference for knowing the exact date, aesthetics, cultural preference.

Nobody does it for NO reason because it’s an active process to get a c section.

I didn’t have a medical reason as such. But my reasons were DS1 almost died during childbirth (vaginal birth, in hospital, all midwives present etc just how it was) but thank goodness he was ok. The medical team were amazing. So I was traumatised by that. Then tried for child number 2 and sadly lost 3 babies in a row. 2 were managed with surgeries, and one passed at home. When I finally got pregnant with our rainbow baby my mental health was in bits I just couldn’t do it. I was convinced I was going to lose him every minute of every day for the whole 9 months even during my elective c section I still thought he was gone until I was holding him.

I am so grateful that they let me choose to have a c section, although medically I didn’t need one. I know I am lucky to have 2 healthy children so I’m not complaining. It’s just how things are and it’s great that women have that choice whatever the reason may be.

Maternal choice is already a valid reason. Yes women should be able to birth how they prefer.

I definitely do. I wish I’d requested one the last time. I know it’s by no means the easy route in general but it does have benefits. At least it’s controlled. My last birth was horrendous. I had a precipitous labor after a failed induction and ended up with zero pain relief not even paracetamol and a major postpartum haemorrhage. Looking back I really wish I’d asked for a c section

I know of several doctors who had elective sections. There is always a reason, even if it’s emotional.

OP has not come back to explain what "no reason" means. So OP can fuck off.

Yes of course it should no question.
After discussing the risks and benefits of the procedure the woman can then make an informed decision re the mode of birthing her baby.
Nice guidelines also support this decision.

Wow, some nasty people on here. Everyone’s entitled to an opinion, some replies are disgusting.

So does a section for no reason take priority over a section for someone whose baby is footling breech? Who can’t be turned using ECV?

This is a situation that is currently happening, so all the people that have commented nasty things, think again.

I feel like for a medical reason or second birth following traumatic first birth.

ill bite - I don’t think it should be easily allowed for first babies without medical need. I think these women should be offered therapy instead.

(yes I’ve had a section and no I don’t think it’s good for you or baby as a first choice)

I do not think that there is always a reason.
Maternal choice isn't a valid reason.
Nobody should be allowed to opt for major surgery.