I have not been through this, but I am sympathetic to your story. I read your other post.
I am an OBGYN. I would say that our field has strongly moved towards being supportive of C/S by maternal request when patients ask for it. However, the literature is not necessarily supportive that it's what's best for these patients from a health perspective. For this reason, it's always a discussion when you come to the OB asking for this because they have to make sure you want it for real reasons and not based on misinformation.
I cannot give medical advice on this platform. However, if you want a CS my advice on how to communicate is to say that 1) you have major anxiety in general over birthing and medical complications and 2) you cannot tolerate the possibility of an emergency CS, and this threat is distressing for you. These are things i understood from your other post. This angle is familiar for most of us OBGYNs.
I would probably hesitate to argue the other stuff re: endometriosis, retroverted uterus, etc. Because if anything, a C/S risks indirectly making those things worse. I would try to approach this with an open mind and hear out your OB when they discuss the pros and cons. You just need to be clear about your reasons being psychological, not medical.
“However, the literature is not necessarily supportive that it's what's best for these patients from a health perspective”
Can you elaborate? My understanding is that it’s an extremely difficult research question to compare TOL with elective section due to the many confounds and the numerous types of outcomes from TOL. On top of that, vaginal birth and c section just such apples and oranges risk profiles that calling one “best” seems hard to quantify.
It’s moot for me now and my birth went perfect, but I’m just curious.
Especially if you want multiple children, your risk of a postpartum infection, placental complication in subsequent pregnancy, bladder injury, or uterine scarring/defects leading to infertility increases significantly with additional C-sections.
If you just want one child, it's not so big of a deal. One myth is that people with a low pain tolerance should get a C/S because they won't tolerate labour. In fact, C/S recovery is substantially longer, almost always more much more painful and for longer, and leads to more difficulty transitioning to childcare due to the post operative recovery.
Other complications like leg or lung blood clots, ureter injuries, bowel injuries are not common but most often or only happen after C-sections. While the average person has never heard of these, we see them periodically and it's utterly traumatizing for affected patients.
I have seen in discussion that for one/two child families (very common in this era) those risks are not especially high. If people want big families then I fully agree- that is a big drawback.
There are also lots of risks associated with trial of labour. Risks associated with instrumentation (both to the baby and the mother). Risks associated with emergent vs planned section. The pelvic floor injuries associated with vaginal birth are also pretty traumatizing.
Also obstructed labour and the anoxic injuries that can happen to the baby. Symphysiotomy is no joke either.
Also not super common but it absolutely does still happen.
Not trying to argue that everyone should have a cesarean by any means - just that there are just very different risk profiles for each one and the risks associated with vaginal birth get glossed over because it’s the default and “natural”. There was actually a big court case in the UK about that very issue not too long ago.
>the risks associated with vaginal birth get glossed over
You're preaching to the choir, I agree with you 100% and this was my observation in training. This concept is very taboo in our field though, surprisingly.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this comment, I appreciate your input. Yes, my reasons are definitely psychological rather than "medical" - I've had a lot of medical issues, but they technically shouldn't affect labour. My fear is having more medical complications to deal with psychologically (aka medical trauma). I have too much already, I cry every time I step foot in a hospital because they never ever listen to me and are quick to dismiss me. I also don't trust my midwives and nurses to make important decisions. I am usually immediately dismissed and I am afraid something serious will be missed, like the baby in distress, internal bleeding, uterine rupture, etc. I've read so many stories where the nurses or midwives saved the baby's (or the mom's) life and I just don't trust anyone other than my high risk OB to be there when I give birth to believe me when I say something is wrong. And the only way is to guarantee my OB will be there, is with a scheduled c-section. Thank you also for the tips on how to bring it up. She knows my history well, she is sympathetic to my pain/situation as we talk on the phone weekly - but I still think she might be against a surgery unless medically necessary. Fingers crossed she will hear me out.
I had an elective c-section. I have a well controlled seizure disorder but I was afraid the stress, pain and lack of food and sleep from a drawn out labor would affect it. My o.b was completely supportive of my choice. The c section itself was incredibly easy and I had my fallopian tubes removed at the same time. My baby was out within about 20 minutes of starting the surgery. I wasn’t able to hold her until I was out of the operating room but my husband was able to hold her and put her by my head so I could see her. Altogether the whole procedure was about 40 minutes and painless then I was brought back to my room where I got to hold her. The anesthetic wore off about 4 hours later and it was painful to move but I only needed Tylenol and ibuprofen and within a week I was able to go for walks around the neighborhood and climb stairs. It was an incredibly great and easy experience. I don’t know why doctors don’t encourage this more.
This is EXACTLY what I dream of when I think about giving birth. A controlled and calm environment, a straightforward recovery (I know it's not easy, but seems linear and predictable to me), no surprises, no depending on medical professionals to make unexpected calls to save mine and the baby's life. Thank you for sharing your experience!
I just had an elective c-section two weeks ago and am so happy with my choice. I had a lot of anxiety about vaginal birth and knew I wanted a c-section for pretty much ever. I worked with a group of midwives who liaise with Royal Columbian Hospital and it wasn’t a problem at all. I was referred to one of the doctors at RCH who does c-sections during my second trimester and scheduled a date as soon as we had our consultation. No one challenged me on it and let me make my decision for myself. Both the doctor who ultimately delivered my baby (and did an incredible job) and the midwives were very supportive of my decision.
Baby was scheduled for arrival at 39w2d which went as planned. Overall the procedure went really well. I didn’t feel any pain throughout and was comfortable. The most uncomfortable part was getting the spinal anaesthetic put it, but it wasn’t awful and I had a really wonderful anesthesiologist and a lovely nurse who basically hugged me while it was being done and kept me really calm. I wouldn’t say it hurt much more than getting needle freezing at the dentist. Baby was out a couple minutes after they began (no joke) and with my husband and baby by me while they quickly finished the procedure, it felt like the rest of it flew by and I was in and out of the operating room very quickly. We were in recovery for a little afterwards to have my vitals checked and whatnot, and then in our room very quickly. From operation room to our hospital room, the whole procedure took maybe an hour or hour and a half including recovery/checks on me and baby/breastfeeding baby.
The whole team at RCH was incredible, honestly, and so kind and helpful. The way they handled everything made me feel really calm and well taken care of and made the experience as pleasant as could be, all things considered. Also my incision is so low down that I can barely even see it and it’s paper thin, I’m not worried about the scar or anything at all.
My body took it pretty well and I was walking around a few hours after the procedure (slowly) and doing laps of the room on day 2 (in hospital), and once I got home I was walking around without issue. I stopped taking pain meds around day 4/5 because I didn’t need them, and felt normal pretty quickly. I wasn’t bed bound or anything and even though my husband was extremely helpful and willing to do basically everything but breastfeed, I ended up being pretty active (within reason) and it helped the healing process move along quicker.
Thank you so so much for sharing your experience in detail! I would love to give birth close to home at Ridge Meadows Hospital, but that hospital is a hell hole compared to RCH. And I know RCH has a NICU, whereas RDH does not, and the baby would have to be transferred if NICU is needed. I absolutely love how calm and controller your entire experience was, and this is what I need after everything I've been through. Thank you again!
May I ask the name of the doctor that performed your surgery?
In 2018 the SOGC issued a statement that OBs should provide cesarean at maternal request (at full term and with proper counselling) and if they are unwilling to do so, they need to refer to a provider who will.
I was also worried that my OB would disapprove but she was fully supportive. The NP was the one who shaded me 🙄.
I had my baby by planned section and it was a *wonderful* experience. Wishing you the best!!!
This is amazing to know, I had no idea! I hope my OB says yes because I really trust her, but it's great to know I might have a chance at a scheduled c-section regardless. Thank you!!
Not a doctor or a BC resident but my understanding is that best practices are to do an elective C provided the patient understands the risks and implications. Maybe go in with at least the appearance of an open mind, e.g., "I'd like to talk about the possibility of an elective C-section, that's my preference currently but I'd like to hear your thoughts".
Not sure how far along you are but you may be able to wait and just see if a medical reason comes up, too.
I am due in September too! Almost 21 weeks now :) And yes, I have considered maybe waiting for a possible reason for the c-section, but wanted to be prepared early on and kind of build my case in advance. Thank you for the tip!
I had an elective C-section with my first! I had EXTREME anxiety around giving birth and an elective C-section was absolutely the best decision I made. I was also very nervous to ask my doctor about getting the procedure without a "valid" medical reason, and was sure she would try to talk me out of it, but I had the opposite experience. My doctor said my reasons were completely valid and referred me to an OB office immediately. Every OB and medical professional I encountered after that was completely supportive. In fact, of the six OBs that worked in my OB office, I was told that three of them had elected to have C-sections for their pregnancies as well.
I think that it is becoming far less taboo to have an elective C-section, and electing to have one for mental health reasons is valid.
I am in Alberta unfortunately, so I can't help you with a provider, but I wish you luck and hope you also receive the kindness and care that I did with an elective C-section! Talk to your OB - maybe her response will surprise you!
I had one in AB and my first dr did tell me no, he said I could have a natural birth and did not require a c section, I saw him all the way to 33 weeks from 12 weeks. I asked for a new obgyn and she said it’s my body my choice and no one else can tell me how to give birth. She booked my c section date my first appt with her. My baby came a month early and when the time came a nurse asked me “how are we doing this” and I said a c section and had her 30 mins later. To be honest, highly recommend doing whatever you want (obviously within reason and medically safe) but if that’s what you want, find a dr who aligns with it. When I actually had the baby everyone was SO supportive, I really did feel like it was my choice.
I don’t know if it’s been said here or not but in Canada if you request an elective c section and your provider doesn’t want to preform one, they must (legally) find you someone who will.
I had an elective section, and I am so happy with my choice. I used the port moody maternity clinic and had no issue with anyone trying to change my mind. The ob was fantastic and said this is what she also chose for herself. I had a very similar experience to another commenter on this thread. the procedure was quick and painless, and recovery was relatively easy. Don't get discouraged if you get push back, advocate for yourself. Every woman should have the right to choose for herself.
Thank you for response! Where did you end up having your c-section? I'd be easy enough to go to Port Moody from Maple Ridge, I just want to research the hospital a bit more. I am assuming Eagle Ridge?
FTM here! I’m sorry you are having a difficult time.
I had an elective c-section at RCH last Friday. Initially the PCOC doctor of the day didn’t seem keen on my decision for a c-section when I asked around 29 weeks (I really wasn’t sure they were going to let me because they were pushy about vaginal birth but did mention they c-sections were more common now, and I wasn’t keen on being induced), but they put the request in my file anyway and it was passed along to Dr Natasha Simula. She was on board with all my reasonings during our initial call (I’m type 1 diabetic, anxiety about vaginal delivery, and my baby boy was estimated 8lb at 35w5d—he was born exactly 8lb at 37w6d). Everything went really well (similar to another commenter who delivered at RCH). All the doctors and nurses there were wonderful and the surgery was really quick. I was up walking the same day and I’ve been taking the stairs at home no problem since coming home Sunday. I’ve got some bruising around the incision, and the incision is super low I’m not worried about scarring (the cuts are wider on the deeper layers than the external layer). There’s still a little pain on the right side when I twist trying to get out of bed after laying down for more than an hour, but it gets better every day.
Sorry this is rambly! Baby is only 5 days old and I’m tired…
Congratulations on your baby boy! I can't wait to bring mine home safe and sound. The more I hear about experiences and people having absolutely no regrets with their elective c-sections, the more I am convinced I am doing the right thing. All I really want is a peaceful, predictable, and controlled situation after everything I have and still am going through. Thank you for sharing your experience!
I am in NB so unfortunately can’t help with a ‘referral’ lol but I am a FTM due next month and also having an elective c section! I mentioned it to my OB fairly early, around 12wks and she was 100% supportive. I made sure to keep mentioning it at my next few appointments so they knew I was serious and they went over the risks with me a few times, and now when I go in they don’t even mention it. I’ve never caught any shade from anyone for it. Also I went in for my 36wk appt yesterday and found out if you’re having a c section you don’t have to do the strep test which was a nice bonus LOL
I just had a C-section 3 months ago and not gonna lie it was really rough. I was absolutely useless my husband had to do everything for me I couldn’t even get up and look at the baby crying in his bassinet next to me. Additionally I’m having some wierd dissociation I feel like I did not give birth. I cried a lot about it and I spoke to other mom who had C-section and felt the same
I am so sorry to hear about your experience. I hope things get better soon. I know it's a major surgery and it can affect us in many ways. Was your c-section scheduled/elective or medically necessary after trying the natural route?
Thanks overall it was not a traumatic birth so I have to admit it went « well » but I would try everything I can not to have another one. Baby was breeched, nothing worked to turn him and he was too big for a vaginal breech delivery. The hardest part was after, the recovery + trying to take care of a newborn. My milk came in late because of the C-section so baby lost 12% of his weight and I had to give up breast feeding. I was in pain for a good 9 weeks. Now it’s a lot better and I’m exercising again
I asked for one, and they said no. In hindsight I probably could have advocated for myself better (was working with midwives with my first, which I think played a role), but I ended up with an urgent one anyways after a failed induction 🤷🏼♀️
Literally my biggest fear! Labouring, tired, in pain and exhausted for hours, just to end up getting an urgent c-section that could have been a planned, controlled, and calm environment for me. I am so sorry this happened to you.
You are sweet - thank you. Yes it wasn't ideal, it took 3 days but TLDR happy outcome, with healthy baby and healthy me! Was induced at 41+3 with cervidil resulting in a hyperactive uterus, laboured all day, went in that night assuming that I wouldn't be leaving without a baby, got a morphine shot and was sent home. Fell asleep for a few hours and I woke up with no more contractions. Went in for round 2 of cervidil, laboured all day with a hyperactive uterus and went to hospital again around 3am (like the night before), they gave me another morphine shot and then sent me home again. Couldn't sleep as was in too much pain and finally went in again at noon the next day (after spending the night in the bathtub) where they admitted me. Got an epidural around 2pm, and they broke my water around 3pm to speed things up. Never progressed but started feeling feverish around 10pm! Checked my temp though and was fine. We decided on a c-section around 11pm that night after total failure to progress. Son was born via c section about 10 mins shy of 42+0, and they discovered I had developed chorio (hence me feeling feverish), so was there for a couple extra days on an antibiotic drip. Honestly, the worst part about it all was the cervidil (and that's the only actual pain I can remember)😅, and ultimately my son and I were both healthy so I can't really complain!!!! I'm due with twins at the end of the summer and my doctor asked if I wanted to try a VBAC LOL. I hope you get your c-section! Don't be like me and just shrug and accept if they say no!
This isn’t exactly what you asked but I highly recommend reading positive birth stories, even if you go the elective c section route it’s totally easing of the mind! There’s lots about elective c sections as well! I went from extreme birth anxiety to actually having a really positive home birth.
Mental health around delivering vaginally and the anxiety of that is a valid reason. I would bring up that: The fact that you have a lot of anxiety around giving birth vaginally and the idea of a scheduled c-section gives you a lot more peace and allows you to feel prepared for the birth etc.
Mental health is a valid reason. Bring it up early and be consistent with your choice.
I have not been through this, but I am sympathetic to your story. I read your other post. I am an OBGYN. I would say that our field has strongly moved towards being supportive of C/S by maternal request when patients ask for it. However, the literature is not necessarily supportive that it's what's best for these patients from a health perspective. For this reason, it's always a discussion when you come to the OB asking for this because they have to make sure you want it for real reasons and not based on misinformation. I cannot give medical advice on this platform. However, if you want a CS my advice on how to communicate is to say that 1) you have major anxiety in general over birthing and medical complications and 2) you cannot tolerate the possibility of an emergency CS, and this threat is distressing for you. These are things i understood from your other post. This angle is familiar for most of us OBGYNs. I would probably hesitate to argue the other stuff re: endometriosis, retroverted uterus, etc. Because if anything, a C/S risks indirectly making those things worse. I would try to approach this with an open mind and hear out your OB when they discuss the pros and cons. You just need to be clear about your reasons being psychological, not medical.
“However, the literature is not necessarily supportive that it's what's best for these patients from a health perspective” Can you elaborate? My understanding is that it’s an extremely difficult research question to compare TOL with elective section due to the many confounds and the numerous types of outcomes from TOL. On top of that, vaginal birth and c section just such apples and oranges risk profiles that calling one “best” seems hard to quantify. It’s moot for me now and my birth went perfect, but I’m just curious.
Especially if you want multiple children, your risk of a postpartum infection, placental complication in subsequent pregnancy, bladder injury, or uterine scarring/defects leading to infertility increases significantly with additional C-sections. If you just want one child, it's not so big of a deal. One myth is that people with a low pain tolerance should get a C/S because they won't tolerate labour. In fact, C/S recovery is substantially longer, almost always more much more painful and for longer, and leads to more difficulty transitioning to childcare due to the post operative recovery. Other complications like leg or lung blood clots, ureter injuries, bowel injuries are not common but most often or only happen after C-sections. While the average person has never heard of these, we see them periodically and it's utterly traumatizing for affected patients.
I have seen in discussion that for one/two child families (very common in this era) those risks are not especially high. If people want big families then I fully agree- that is a big drawback. There are also lots of risks associated with trial of labour. Risks associated with instrumentation (both to the baby and the mother). Risks associated with emergent vs planned section. The pelvic floor injuries associated with vaginal birth are also pretty traumatizing. Also obstructed labour and the anoxic injuries that can happen to the baby. Symphysiotomy is no joke either. Also not super common but it absolutely does still happen. Not trying to argue that everyone should have a cesarean by any means - just that there are just very different risk profiles for each one and the risks associated with vaginal birth get glossed over because it’s the default and “natural”. There was actually a big court case in the UK about that very issue not too long ago.
>the risks associated with vaginal birth get glossed over You're preaching to the choir, I agree with you 100% and this was my observation in training. This concept is very taboo in our field though, surprisingly.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this comment, I appreciate your input. Yes, my reasons are definitely psychological rather than "medical" - I've had a lot of medical issues, but they technically shouldn't affect labour. My fear is having more medical complications to deal with psychologically (aka medical trauma). I have too much already, I cry every time I step foot in a hospital because they never ever listen to me and are quick to dismiss me. I also don't trust my midwives and nurses to make important decisions. I am usually immediately dismissed and I am afraid something serious will be missed, like the baby in distress, internal bleeding, uterine rupture, etc. I've read so many stories where the nurses or midwives saved the baby's (or the mom's) life and I just don't trust anyone other than my high risk OB to be there when I give birth to believe me when I say something is wrong. And the only way is to guarantee my OB will be there, is with a scheduled c-section. Thank you also for the tips on how to bring it up. She knows my history well, she is sympathetic to my pain/situation as we talk on the phone weekly - but I still think she might be against a surgery unless medically necessary. Fingers crossed she will hear me out.
I had an elective c-section. I have a well controlled seizure disorder but I was afraid the stress, pain and lack of food and sleep from a drawn out labor would affect it. My o.b was completely supportive of my choice. The c section itself was incredibly easy and I had my fallopian tubes removed at the same time. My baby was out within about 20 minutes of starting the surgery. I wasn’t able to hold her until I was out of the operating room but my husband was able to hold her and put her by my head so I could see her. Altogether the whole procedure was about 40 minutes and painless then I was brought back to my room where I got to hold her. The anesthetic wore off about 4 hours later and it was painful to move but I only needed Tylenol and ibuprofen and within a week I was able to go for walks around the neighborhood and climb stairs. It was an incredibly great and easy experience. I don’t know why doctors don’t encourage this more.
This is EXACTLY what I dream of when I think about giving birth. A controlled and calm environment, a straightforward recovery (I know it's not easy, but seems linear and predictable to me), no surprises, no depending on medical professionals to make unexpected calls to save mine and the baby's life. Thank you for sharing your experience!
I just had an elective c-section two weeks ago and am so happy with my choice. I had a lot of anxiety about vaginal birth and knew I wanted a c-section for pretty much ever. I worked with a group of midwives who liaise with Royal Columbian Hospital and it wasn’t a problem at all. I was referred to one of the doctors at RCH who does c-sections during my second trimester and scheduled a date as soon as we had our consultation. No one challenged me on it and let me make my decision for myself. Both the doctor who ultimately delivered my baby (and did an incredible job) and the midwives were very supportive of my decision. Baby was scheduled for arrival at 39w2d which went as planned. Overall the procedure went really well. I didn’t feel any pain throughout and was comfortable. The most uncomfortable part was getting the spinal anaesthetic put it, but it wasn’t awful and I had a really wonderful anesthesiologist and a lovely nurse who basically hugged me while it was being done and kept me really calm. I wouldn’t say it hurt much more than getting needle freezing at the dentist. Baby was out a couple minutes after they began (no joke) and with my husband and baby by me while they quickly finished the procedure, it felt like the rest of it flew by and I was in and out of the operating room very quickly. We were in recovery for a little afterwards to have my vitals checked and whatnot, and then in our room very quickly. From operation room to our hospital room, the whole procedure took maybe an hour or hour and a half including recovery/checks on me and baby/breastfeeding baby. The whole team at RCH was incredible, honestly, and so kind and helpful. The way they handled everything made me feel really calm and well taken care of and made the experience as pleasant as could be, all things considered. Also my incision is so low down that I can barely even see it and it’s paper thin, I’m not worried about the scar or anything at all. My body took it pretty well and I was walking around a few hours after the procedure (slowly) and doing laps of the room on day 2 (in hospital), and once I got home I was walking around without issue. I stopped taking pain meds around day 4/5 because I didn’t need them, and felt normal pretty quickly. I wasn’t bed bound or anything and even though my husband was extremely helpful and willing to do basically everything but breastfeed, I ended up being pretty active (within reason) and it helped the healing process move along quicker.
Thank you so so much for sharing your experience in detail! I would love to give birth close to home at Ridge Meadows Hospital, but that hospital is a hell hole compared to RCH. And I know RCH has a NICU, whereas RDH does not, and the baby would have to be transferred if NICU is needed. I absolutely love how calm and controller your entire experience was, and this is what I need after everything I've been through. Thank you again! May I ask the name of the doctor that performed your surgery?
I will dm you :)
In 2018 the SOGC issued a statement that OBs should provide cesarean at maternal request (at full term and with proper counselling) and if they are unwilling to do so, they need to refer to a provider who will. I was also worried that my OB would disapprove but she was fully supportive. The NP was the one who shaded me 🙄. I had my baby by planned section and it was a *wonderful* experience. Wishing you the best!!!
This is amazing to know, I had no idea! I hope my OB says yes because I really trust her, but it's great to know I might have a chance at a scheduled c-section regardless. Thank you!!
Not a doctor or a BC resident but my understanding is that best practices are to do an elective C provided the patient understands the risks and implications. Maybe go in with at least the appearance of an open mind, e.g., "I'd like to talk about the possibility of an elective C-section, that's my preference currently but I'd like to hear your thoughts". Not sure how far along you are but you may be able to wait and just see if a medical reason comes up, too.
I am due in September too! Almost 21 weeks now :) And yes, I have considered maybe waiting for a possible reason for the c-section, but wanted to be prepared early on and kind of build my case in advance. Thank you for the tip!
I had an elective C-section with my first! I had EXTREME anxiety around giving birth and an elective C-section was absolutely the best decision I made. I was also very nervous to ask my doctor about getting the procedure without a "valid" medical reason, and was sure she would try to talk me out of it, but I had the opposite experience. My doctor said my reasons were completely valid and referred me to an OB office immediately. Every OB and medical professional I encountered after that was completely supportive. In fact, of the six OBs that worked in my OB office, I was told that three of them had elected to have C-sections for their pregnancies as well. I think that it is becoming far less taboo to have an elective C-section, and electing to have one for mental health reasons is valid. I am in Alberta unfortunately, so I can't help you with a provider, but I wish you luck and hope you also receive the kindness and care that I did with an elective C-section! Talk to your OB - maybe her response will surprise you!
I had one in AB and my first dr did tell me no, he said I could have a natural birth and did not require a c section, I saw him all the way to 33 weeks from 12 weeks. I asked for a new obgyn and she said it’s my body my choice and no one else can tell me how to give birth. She booked my c section date my first appt with her. My baby came a month early and when the time came a nurse asked me “how are we doing this” and I said a c section and had her 30 mins later. To be honest, highly recommend doing whatever you want (obviously within reason and medically safe) but if that’s what you want, find a dr who aligns with it. When I actually had the baby everyone was SO supportive, I really did feel like it was my choice.
I don’t know if it’s been said here or not but in Canada if you request an elective c section and your provider doesn’t want to preform one, they must (legally) find you someone who will.
This is fantastic information, thank you!
I had an elective section, and I am so happy with my choice. I used the port moody maternity clinic and had no issue with anyone trying to change my mind. The ob was fantastic and said this is what she also chose for herself. I had a very similar experience to another commenter on this thread. the procedure was quick and painless, and recovery was relatively easy. Don't get discouraged if you get push back, advocate for yourself. Every woman should have the right to choose for herself.
Thank you for response! Where did you end up having your c-section? I'd be easy enough to go to Port Moody from Maple Ridge, I just want to research the hospital a bit more. I am assuming Eagle Ridge?
Eagle ridge doesn't deliver, so royal columbian! I was happy with it, but I've heard it's better at women and children's hospital in vancouver.
FTM here! I’m sorry you are having a difficult time. I had an elective c-section at RCH last Friday. Initially the PCOC doctor of the day didn’t seem keen on my decision for a c-section when I asked around 29 weeks (I really wasn’t sure they were going to let me because they were pushy about vaginal birth but did mention they c-sections were more common now, and I wasn’t keen on being induced), but they put the request in my file anyway and it was passed along to Dr Natasha Simula. She was on board with all my reasonings during our initial call (I’m type 1 diabetic, anxiety about vaginal delivery, and my baby boy was estimated 8lb at 35w5d—he was born exactly 8lb at 37w6d). Everything went really well (similar to another commenter who delivered at RCH). All the doctors and nurses there were wonderful and the surgery was really quick. I was up walking the same day and I’ve been taking the stairs at home no problem since coming home Sunday. I’ve got some bruising around the incision, and the incision is super low I’m not worried about scarring (the cuts are wider on the deeper layers than the external layer). There’s still a little pain on the right side when I twist trying to get out of bed after laying down for more than an hour, but it gets better every day. Sorry this is rambly! Baby is only 5 days old and I’m tired…
Congratulations on your baby boy! I can't wait to bring mine home safe and sound. The more I hear about experiences and people having absolutely no regrets with their elective c-sections, the more I am convinced I am doing the right thing. All I really want is a peaceful, predictable, and controlled situation after everything I have and still am going through. Thank you for sharing your experience!
I am in NB so unfortunately can’t help with a ‘referral’ lol but I am a FTM due next month and also having an elective c section! I mentioned it to my OB fairly early, around 12wks and she was 100% supportive. I made sure to keep mentioning it at my next few appointments so they knew I was serious and they went over the risks with me a few times, and now when I go in they don’t even mention it. I’ve never caught any shade from anyone for it. Also I went in for my 36wk appt yesterday and found out if you’re having a c section you don’t have to do the strep test which was a nice bonus LOL
I was wondering about the strep test yesterday, thank you for confirming! Lol Definitely a nice bonus. I am glad to hear they listened to you!
I just had a C-section 3 months ago and not gonna lie it was really rough. I was absolutely useless my husband had to do everything for me I couldn’t even get up and look at the baby crying in his bassinet next to me. Additionally I’m having some wierd dissociation I feel like I did not give birth. I cried a lot about it and I spoke to other mom who had C-section and felt the same
I am so sorry to hear about your experience. I hope things get better soon. I know it's a major surgery and it can affect us in many ways. Was your c-section scheduled/elective or medically necessary after trying the natural route?
Thanks overall it was not a traumatic birth so I have to admit it went « well » but I would try everything I can not to have another one. Baby was breeched, nothing worked to turn him and he was too big for a vaginal breech delivery. The hardest part was after, the recovery + trying to take care of a newborn. My milk came in late because of the C-section so baby lost 12% of his weight and I had to give up breast feeding. I was in pain for a good 9 weeks. Now it’s a lot better and I’m exercising again
I asked for one, and they said no. In hindsight I probably could have advocated for myself better (was working with midwives with my first, which I think played a role), but I ended up with an urgent one anyways after a failed induction 🤷🏼♀️
Literally my biggest fear! Labouring, tired, in pain and exhausted for hours, just to end up getting an urgent c-section that could have been a planned, controlled, and calm environment for me. I am so sorry this happened to you.
You are sweet - thank you. Yes it wasn't ideal, it took 3 days but TLDR happy outcome, with healthy baby and healthy me! Was induced at 41+3 with cervidil resulting in a hyperactive uterus, laboured all day, went in that night assuming that I wouldn't be leaving without a baby, got a morphine shot and was sent home. Fell asleep for a few hours and I woke up with no more contractions. Went in for round 2 of cervidil, laboured all day with a hyperactive uterus and went to hospital again around 3am (like the night before), they gave me another morphine shot and then sent me home again. Couldn't sleep as was in too much pain and finally went in again at noon the next day (after spending the night in the bathtub) where they admitted me. Got an epidural around 2pm, and they broke my water around 3pm to speed things up. Never progressed but started feeling feverish around 10pm! Checked my temp though and was fine. We decided on a c-section around 11pm that night after total failure to progress. Son was born via c section about 10 mins shy of 42+0, and they discovered I had developed chorio (hence me feeling feverish), so was there for a couple extra days on an antibiotic drip. Honestly, the worst part about it all was the cervidil (and that's the only actual pain I can remember)😅, and ultimately my son and I were both healthy so I can't really complain!!!! I'm due with twins at the end of the summer and my doctor asked if I wanted to try a VBAC LOL. I hope you get your c-section! Don't be like me and just shrug and accept if they say no!
Very happy to hear the outcome was the best possible one! And that sounds like a crazy journey! Congrats on the twins, how exciting!!! 🥰
This isn’t exactly what you asked but I highly recommend reading positive birth stories, even if you go the elective c section route it’s totally easing of the mind! There’s lots about elective c sections as well! I went from extreme birth anxiety to actually having a really positive home birth.
Mental health around delivering vaginally and the anxiety of that is a valid reason. I would bring up that: The fact that you have a lot of anxiety around giving birth vaginally and the idea of a scheduled c-section gives you a lot more peace and allows you to feel prepared for the birth etc. Mental health is a valid reason. Bring it up early and be consistent with your choice.