Should I have an elective c-section with colitis? Has anyone had problems following natural birth?

Klaudia30

Hi everyone, I am 20 weeks pregnant with my first baby and have had ulcerative colitis since 2008. I had a flare in the first trimester but I am now well. However, I am very concerned about giving birth naturally, because of the potential perianal damage. The colitis specialist said my risk of a third or fourth degree tear is the same as any healthy woman's (approx 4 in 100). However, there is no reliable data available on what happens to those who have a tear/damage and how this impacts their colitis for the rest of their lives. I am personally terrified of bowel incontinence (a survey by chrons and colitis UK showed that one in ten women suffered from it following natural delivery). I am also worried about the impact of the weakened muscles in general. Are there any ladies out there who have given natural birth with colitis? Did this have a negative impact on your colitis? Did you/do you suffer from bowel incontinence? Anyone who had an elective c-section? Any regrets? I have done a lot of research on c-sections and I think it is the safer option for me but the midwives trying to get me to change my mind. They won't have to live with any consequences tho....