Elective C/S - did any of you choose this birth option?

It took me quite a while to recovery from my caesarean. I think part of that though had to do with the fact that I had a long labour beforehand, so I had the physical exhaustion of that, plus the recovery from major surgery. Like Anney, I also found that my general fitness levels had decreased. I couldn't believe just how drained I was after going for just a short 10 minute walk with the pram!! I had to very slowly progress from walking around the block to longer walks. Plus, having NO strength in my stomach muscles meant pushing the pram was extra hard work (trying to get it up onto the footpath was HARD work and on one occasion when I first went out, I actually got stuck! Thank god for DH!)

I was in pain for quite a long time too, and had difficulty getting in/out of bed.

Hi,

I have had both a vaginal birth and an emergency c-section.

Two of my sisters had each given birth to two children by c-section and small pelvis runs in my family, so I had asked my first ob re whether I could choose planned c-section. She seemed to be against c-section and put me off the idea. My second ob was more pro c-section, and seemed to perform them more often. Anyway, when the time came with my second-born, she was in breech position and an emergency c-section was needed (waters broke early).

Both birth experiences were positive for me and I was fully conscious and excited/relieved with both deliveries, and I had pretty much equivalent recovery durations. I really couldn't say I preferred one method over the other, and don't really mind which option I have if I have a third.

Thanks for your comments on recovery everyone - really appreciate it!!

Berry - just wanted to say congratulations on your baby girl - I noticed on your ticker that she is 16 days old....wow - that is fantastic!

Megan

Thanks Megan! :D

I found out on Friday that our little boy will be born on June 2 at 10.30am.....we have finally made the decision and my OB is totally supportive and actually said that she would have encouraged me towards a c/s anyway due to my dodgy bladder and pelvic floor!

Today I had an ante natal workshop and didn't feel that the midwife was very supportive and it made me feel like a bit of a failure that I have chosen a c/s - but I know that it is the right thing to do...I just hope that the midwives in the hospital on the 2 June are supportive...I seem to take on people's negativity so much more now that I am pregnant! is this normal?

Megan

Megan don't you ever think you are a failure for having a c/section. You have made the right choice for you and bubs.
Only 60 days to go and you will be holding your little one.

Thanks again Michelle - really appreciate your support!

Megan

Megan - You know my email so if you ever need to talk i'm here for you :)

Thanks again Michelle.....xxx

Megan

Hi I'm new to this website.

Umm....Do you or the unborn baby have to have a medical condition to have an elective caesarean? Has anyone out there had a elective c/s thats had no medical issues with yourself or your baby.

I'm 33yrs old and still trying to conceive and this will be my first baby. Will a public hospital give me an elective c/s if I push for it throughout my pregnancy? Can I choose to have an elective c/s over a natural birth.

Cheers
Samantha

Hi Samantha,

I don't think they will give you an elective c-section unless you have medical reason or there is a problem with the baby.

I am having an elective c-section due to having an emergancy c-section with my first pregnancy i could have a natural birth with this one but it does come with some small risks.

Hi Samantha

I am having an elective c/s too - I have a mild medical condition to do with my bladder (and the fact that I don't want to damage it further) but I would have elected to have a c/s even if I didn't have any problems.....I know that sounds terrrible and slack but I just felt more comfortable with this option....I am going private though, so am not sure about the public system. Are you wanting to have a c/s?

Megan

Our public hospital did elective c/s. I just know because there was a woman there in my antenatal appointments who chose this option.

I phoned Frankston public hospital and they said they will not do an elective c/s, if there is no medical condition unless closer to the day I get a sympathic doctor.

I am not covered with private health insurance but I did ring Freemasons private hosital (for prices) and they will do it, if I find a ob to do the procedure. It would work out cheaper if I went to a public hospital but in the private section.

Ever since I can remember I've always wanted a c/section. I feel its my body and my choice!!

yay Samantha - I have always felt the same as you - that it is my choice...good for you! Fingers crossed that you will get what you want...

Megan

Thanks for that Shannon I shall definitely be ringing as they are on my list.

I guess I'm pushing having an elective c/s even more coz I've been told I cannot have it and I'm determined to find a place that will.

Thanks for yours comments Megan. I was actually too scared to say something about my view on c/s. I've had too many put downs [-X from other mothers who've had a vag. birth. These women don't know my body and whats going on behind closed doors at home.

If any of you need prices I'm collating them over the next week. I can email them to you, if needed. :D

Samantha - I know exactly what you mean about other mothers.....I had the same reaction. I was lucky to be put in touch with several people that had chosen to have a c/s with no medical issue and they reassured me that the decision was mine to make and the judgement other women put on you is wrong, cruel and very uninformed. You are right though - we all have our reasons for not wanting a natural birth - it's just that we don't often voice them to everyone who will listen

Good Luck with everything!

Megan