Ladies, I'm at the end of my tether. I'm 39 years old expecting FTM, 38 weeks pregnant. I have been scared of birth my whole life. But not about sense of control, don't care about that. I'm worried of pain and suffering (during or after labour).
I've had lots of people recommend me C-section, many friends and family members had it and are happy. Even many posts here happen to say elective c-section, despite being a surgery and having risks, is all right. And with my age.... So I've booked one and it's 1 week from now.
At the same time, I never saw myself having c-section. I worry of recovery so much. Adhesions seriously scare me.
I always thought I'll have natural with epidural (one thing for sure, I'm not homebirth or bath birth kind of person). I am just so worried of all the things that can go wrong... Will I deal with early labour pain? Will I get epidural when I want it (hospital claims it usually happens within 30min but heard stories of too early then too late or anaesthetist busy)? Will I get a massive tear and prolapse?
Its not that I genuinely WANT natural birth, it's just I kinda of don't want a surgery either, but feel like it should be the right thing to do from other people's accounts? I have been prepping for both. I do Epi-No, I'm at 10cm now. I have been working out few times a week, I'm fit. Baby is head down and in right position. My abs haven't separated. Practised breathing exercises and affirmations (though this is all I'm willing to do Hypnobirthing wise, I'm not into the non medicated stuff)
But I just don't know WHAT TO DO AT ALL. What chances do I have to have an ok natural birth and not ending with EMCS or foreceps?
Are there any older mums here that has the same pickle and found the right choice? Has any of you genuinely had a positive birth and are happy with it? Should I go medium safety route of elective CS or roll then dice of natural birth which might be great or horrible?