I couldn't tell you the amount of people who ask me if I'm going to try to have the baby naturally or if I'm just going to get a c-section. Everytime I get asked this question I laugh because I don't understand how they don't realize it is not something you choose to do! And when I explain this to them they always say they would rather have a c-section because it will hurt less. I do realize some people opt for elective c-sections, but not many doctors will perform them. Does anyone else get asked this question or are my friends just crazy?
Re: Choosing to have a C-Section.
I am a runner, knitter, scientist, DE-IVF veteran, and stage III colon cancer survivor.
Everyone who knows me knows that I would never in a million years elect to have another c-section. I hated my first one and it wasn't my choice. I had a VBAC with my second and plan on vaginal delivery this time as well. This time however I am going natural...no inducing and no epidural. I am frequently asked about the going natural part though. I don't like to broadcast that I am going natural though because it prompts too many questions to which the answers are slightly complicated. So when people ask I just avoid the topic as best I can.
My best friend is having an elective c-section...her second. There are many doctors out there who will perform these, at least here in Texas as far I have seen. Elective c-sections are on the rise...women who like my friend want the convience of choosing their child's birthday, want to avoid "the pain of labor" and in my friend's case....she wants to avoid hemmroids from pushing. Honest to God that's one of her biggest reasons. To each their own I suppose.
the 1st thing my (previous) OB said to me at my 1st prenatal appointment was, "I want yo to know it is your legal medical right to elect to have a c-section if you's like to avoid a vaginal birth"
I was like, Buddy I'm 8 weeks pregnant - maybe we'll talk about birthing options when I at least LOOK pregnant!
I opted to have a repeat c-section because the last one was a c-section (not my choice the first time around). I had to switch doctors/hospitals because of a military move and a VBAC was not an option at the place I moved from. Here, I can have a VBAC, but I feel more mentally prepared for a repeat c-section. So, we went ahead and scheduled it.
I got the paperwork for it today and they keep using the word "elective" which makes me feel a little uncomfortable. I did decide that if he wants to make an appearance before the scheduled date, then I would try a VBAC. Who knows what this LO will decide to do....