if you are choosing c-section over vaginal birth

sunflwr2 · April 2011

what are your reasons?
I don't mean the women who HAVE to have a c-section, or are recomended by their doctors to have one. I mean the women who are choosing a c-section over vaginal birth for other, personal reasons? Maybe you like the idea of being able to plan exactly when it will be? or you're scared of the actual "labor" thing? Etc.
Just curious. I'm hoping for a vaginal birth, but ultimately I just want whats best for the baby. And if i'm told that's a c-section, than so be it!

Lindsaywillo · April 2011

Maybe every doctor is different but I don't think you can choose to have a c-section over a vaginal birth. And if their reasons are so they know exactly when they would have the baby I don't know why they wouldn't go the route of induction over c-section...that's a major surgery.

JaysonandKristin · April 2011

Last pregnancy I chose c/s because I was 41w3d, and making no progress. I opted for the sched'd c/s over the induction because I didn't want to force my body into doing something it wasn't prepared to do, or isn't physically capable of doing.

So, I scheduled my c/s with my doc at 42w3d.

I am waiting 'til the bitter end this time around to see which direction we'll go.

Beckypooh09 · April 2011

Lindsaywillo:
Maybe every doctor is different but I don't think you can choose to have a c-section over a vaginal birth. And if their reasons are so they know exactly when they would have the baby I don't know why they wouldn't go the route of induction over c-section...that's a major surgery.

Yes

It's a major surgery I'm hoping to avoid this time around.

MrsGo4Hockeychick · April 2011

lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.

this.

My OB wouldn't do a c/s unless it was an absolutely 100% medically necessary reason. He won't even do one for a "big baby" or instead of induction (for post dates anyways.)

chandwy11 · April 2011

I knew from the beginning that I wanted to have a C-section and scheduled it with my dr. at about the 20 week mark. My physician didn't have a problem with my choice because she had made the same one years before. My reasons were simply that I didn't want to risk some of the complications that come from a vaginal birth, primarily associated with weakening the pelvic floor muscles. An added benefit was the planning but by no means an important part of our decision making. My husband is a physician and we did our research which was surprising to me how safe a PLANNED c-section is (compared to a c-section done after pushing for a long period of time). I will also add that the dozen or so women that went to med school with my husband all opted for a c-section as well. It's a personal choice. I wouldn't begrudge anyone for their choices when it comes to their bodies and their birthing experience.

A side note, my DS ended up weighing just shy of 10lbs so I probably would've had a C/S anyway;) And this time around, we already scheduled for Sept. 15th!

Scout05 · April 2011

lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.

This.

My OB does not want me going beyond the 39 week mark, because of medications I have been on to maintain this pregnancy (that I had to stop at 36 weeks.) Given that an induction was likely, I was given the option of a vaginal birth or c-section, and chose the section for the same reason as PP. I didn't really want to go through hours of failed labor and end up in an emergency section anyway. I think my chances for recovery are better this way, and I feel very good about the decision.

However, if baby girl decides to come before my scheduled date, I will be going for a vaginal birth. And if an induction had not been medically necessary, I would not have opted for it (before 42 weeks or so) or a c-section.

All that being said, if your doctor is fine with it and it's what you want, it's none of my business how another woman chooses to have her baby. I would be sure to check with your insurance company - many will not cover elective sections when there is no medical reasoning behind it, and that's not a surprise you want to find out later.

barefootally · April 2011

MrsGo4Hockeychick:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this.
My OB wouldn't do a c/s unless it was an absolutely 100% medically necessary reason. He won't even do one for a "big baby" or instead of induction (for post dates anyways.)

Ditto!

jetskreemr · April 2011

Lindsaywillo:
Maybe every doctor is different but I don't think you can choose to have a c-section over a vaginal birth. And if their reasons are so they know exactly when they would have the baby I don't know why they wouldn't go the route of induction over c-section...that's a major surgery.

You CAN choose to have an elective c-section if you want. Perhaps some peoples' OB's won't agree to it, but there are docs who will allow it. And insurance companies will make you pay out of pocket. I know because I did ask about this a long time ago, and was told as long as you signed the necessary consent forms (indicating you knew the risks involved) and the insurance company said you have to pay your costs out of pocket, you could do it. This is what a lot of celebrities do, if you ever noticed their crazy high number of c-sections.

NDwife07 · April 2011

I think doctors who allow their patients to choose a c/s for a non-medical reason are few and far between (though clearly exist as evidenced above).

There is definitely a swing going in the other direction after the high c/s rate in the US came to light in recent years. There's also a bigger push (no pun intended) for VBAC.

I'm "choosing" a c/s this time around - it's my second - because my doctor believes given the circumstances under which I needed my first one, I would likely have to have another one even if I allowed my body to go into labor. I'm totally fine with it but can't under any circumstances understand why someone would just want one.

+diana82+ · April 2011

I've been weighing the vbac vs rcs options and right now I'm leaning toward RCS. My doctor has given me the "choice," at least at this point, and since my previous experience was not a negative one right now I think I'd rather go with what I already know.

It's not a popular view around here but I'm comfortable with my decision. And, when the time comes if it looks like my body actually wants to progress and go into labor, I may change my mind. But for now that's what I'm leaning toward.

LJR 84 · April 2011

I think most doctors are going to be more on the conservative side and advise against an elective c/s. However, there are obviously an abundance of doctors out there that will perform an elective c/s. I remember my doctor telling me it's quite common in certain areas.

chandwy11 · April 2011

Wow, that is quite a bit of research. Let me know when you get your MD.

My body. My choice.

chandwy11 · April 2011

lrachelle80:
chandwy11:
I knew from the beginning that I wanted to have a C-section and scheduled it with my dr. at about the 20 week mark. My physician didn't have a problem with my choice because she had made the same one years before. My reasons were simply that I didn't want to risk some of the complications that come from a vaginal birth, primarily associated with weakening the pelvic floor muscles. An added benefit was the planning but by no means an important part of our decision making. My husband is a physician and we did our research which was surprising to me how safe a PLANNED c-section is (compared to a c-section done after pushing for a long period of time). I will also add that the dozen or so women that went to med school with my husband all opted for a c-section as well. It's a personal choice. I wouldn't begrudge anyone for their choices when it comes to their bodies and their birthing experience.

A side note, my DS ended up weighing just shy of 10lbs so I probably would've had a C/S anyway;) And this time around, we already scheduled for Sept. 15th!
Um, I'm having a c-section, and I'm beyond flabbergasted. Let me know who your doctor is so I can avoid him/her in the future? You'd rather take the risks associated with major surgery than pelvic floor weakness?
________________________________
https://www.childbirth.org/section/risks.html
Cesarean birth is major surgery, and, as with other surgical procedures, risks are involved.The estimated risk of a woman dying after a cesarean birth is less than one in 2,500 (the risk of death after a vaginal birth is less than one in 10,000).These are estimated risks for a large population of women. Individual medical conditions such as some heart problems may make the risk of vaginal birth higher than cesarean birth.
Other risks for the mother include the following:

Infection. The uterus or nearby pelvic organs such as the bladder or kidneys can become infected.
Increased blood loss. Blood loss on the average is about twice as much with cesarean birth as with vaginal birth. However, blood transfusions are rarely needed during a cesarean.
Decreased bowel function. The bowel sometimes slows down for several days after surgery, resulting in distention, bloating and discomfort.
Respiratory complications. General anesthesia can sometimes lead to pneumonia.
Longer hospital stay and recovery time. Three to five days in the hospital is the common length of stay, whereas it is less than one to three days for a vaginal birth.
Reactions to anesthesia. The mother's health could be endangered by unexpected responses (such as blood pressure that drops quickly) to anesthesia or other medications during the surgery.
Risk of additional surgeries. For example, hysterectomy, bladder repair, etc.

In cesarean birth, the possible risks to the baby include the following:

Premature birth. If the due date was not accurately calculated, the baby could be delivered too early.
Breathing problems. Babies born by cesarean are more likely to develop breathing problems such as transient tachypnea (abnormally fast breathing during the first few days after birth).
Low Apgar scores. Babies born by cesarean sometimes have low Apgar scores. The low score can be an effect of the anesthesia and cesarean birth, or the baby may have been in distress to begin with. Or perhaps the baby was not stimulated as he or she would have been by vaginal birth.
Fetal injury. Although rare, the surgeon can accidentally nick the baby while making the uterine incision.
___________________________
https://www.webmd.com/baby/tc/cesarean-section-risks-and-complications
Cesarean section is considered relatively safe. It does, however, pose a higher risk of some complications than does a vaginal delivery. If you have a cesarean section, expect a longer recovery time than you would have after a vaginal delivery.

After cesarean section, the most common complications for the mother are:

Infection.
Heavy blood loss.
A blood clot in the legs or lungs.
Nausea, vomiting, and severe headache after the delivery (related to anesthesia and the abdominal procedure).
Bowel problems, such as constipation or when the intestines stop moving waste material normally (ileus).
Maternal death (very rare). The risk of death for women who have a planned cesarean delivery is very low (about 6 in 100,000). For emergency cesarean deliveries, the rate is higher, though still very rare (about 18 in 100,000).¹
Cesarean risks for the infant include:

Injury during the delivery.
Need for special care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).³
Immature lungs and breathing problems, if the due date has been miscalculated or the infant is delivered before 39 weeks of gestation.^3,⁴
While most women recover from both cesarean and vaginal births without complications, it takes more time and special care to heal from cesarean section, which is a major surgery. Women who have a cesarean section without complications spend about 3 days in the hospital, compared with about 2 days for women who deliver vaginally. Full recovery after a cesarean delivery takes 4 to 6 weeks; full recovery after a vaginal delivery takes about 1 to 2 weeks.

Long-term risks of cesarean section

Women who have a uterine cesarean scar have slightly higher long-term risks. These risks, which increase with each additional cesarean delivery, include:⁵

Breaking open of the incision scar during a later pregnancy or labor (uterine rupture). For more information, see the topic Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC).
Placenta previa, the growth of the placenta low in the uterus, blocking the cervix.
Placenta accreta, placenta increta, placenta percreta (least to most severe). These problems occur when the placenta grows deeper into the uterine wall than normal, which can lead to severe bleeding after childbirth, and sometimes may require a hysterectomy.

_______________________________________

https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/c-section/MY00214/DSECTION=risks
Recovery from a C-section takes longer than does recovery from a vaginal birth. And like other types of major surgery, C-sections also carry a higher risk of complications.
Risks to your baby include:
Breathing problems. Babies born by C-section are more likely to develop transient tachypnea ? a breathing problem marked by abnormally fast breathing during the first few days after birth. Elective C-sections done before 39 weeks of pregnancy or without proof of the baby's lung maturity may increase the risk of other breathing problems, including respiratory distress syndrome ? a condition that makes it difficult to breathe.
Fetal injury. Although rare, accidental nicks to the baby's skin can occur during surgery.
Risks to you include:
Inflammation and infection of the membrane lining the uterus. This condition ? known as endometritis ? may cause fever, chills, back pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and uterine pain. It's often treated with intravenous (IV) antibiotics.
Increased bleeding. You may lose more blood with a C-section than with a vaginal birth. Blood transfusions are rarely needed, however.
Reactions to anesthesia. After regional anesthesia, it's possible to experience a headache caused by a leak of the fluid around the spinal canal into the tissues of the back. Allergic or adverse reactions to the anesthetic also are possible.
Blood clots. The risk of developing a blood clot inside a vein ? especially in the legs or pelvic organs ? is greater after a C-section than after a vaginal delivery. If a blood clot travels to your lungs (pulmonary embolism), the damage can be life-threatening. Your health care team will take steps to prevent blood clots. You can help, too, by walking frequently soon after surgery.
Wound infection. An infection at or around the incision site is possible.
Surgical injury. Although rare, surgical injuries to nearby organs can occur during a C-section. If this happens, additional surgery may be needed.
Increased risks during future pregnancies. After a C-section, you face a higher risk of potentially serious complications ? including bleeding, placenta previa and tearing of the uterus along the scar line from the prior C-section (uterine rupture) ? in a subsequent pregnancy than you would after a vaginal delivery.
_________________________________

https://www.americanpregnancy.org/labornbirth/cesareanrisks.html
With any major surgical procedure, there are risks involved. It is important to know and understand your risks before a cesarean procedure, so that you may feel equipped to talk with your health care provider and make informed decisions.

Risks and Complications for the Mom:

Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site, in the uterus and in other pelvic organs such as the bladder.
Hemorrhage or increased blood loss: There is more blood loss in a cesarean delivery than with a vaginal delivery. This can lead to anemia or a blood transfusion (1 to 6 women per 100 require a blood transfusion¹).
Injury to organs: Possible injury to organs such as the bowel or bladder (2 per 100²).
Adhesions: Scar tissue may form inside the pelvic region causing blockage and pain. This can also lead to future pregnancy complication such as placenta previa or placental abruption³.
Extended hospital stay: After a cesarean, the normal time in the hospital is 3-5 days after giving birth if there are no complications.
Extended recovery time: The amount of time needed for recovery after a cesarean can extend from weeks to months, having an impact on bonding time with your baby (1 in 14 report incisional pain six months or more after surgery⁴).
Reactions to medications: There can be a negative reaction to the anesthesia given during a cesarean or reaction to pain medication given after the procedure.
Risk of additional surgeries: Such as hysterectomy, bladder repair or another cesarean.
Maternal mortality: The maternal mortality rate for a cesarean is greater than with a vaginal birth.
Emotional reactions: Women who have a cesarean report feeling negatively about their birth experience and may have trouble with initial bonding with their baby⁵.
Risks and Complications for the Baby:

Premature birth: If gestational age was not calculated correctly, a baby delivered by cesarean could be delivered too early and be low birth weight⁶.
Breathing problems: When delivered by cesarean, a baby is more likely to have breathing and respiratory difficulties. Some studies show an increased need for assistance with breathing and immediate care after a cesarean than with a vaginal delivery⁷.
Low APGAR scores: Low APGAR scores can be the result of anesthesia, fetal distress before the delivery or lack of stimulation during delivery (vaginal birth provides natural stimulation to the baby while in the birth canal). Babies born by cesarean are 50% more likely to have lower APGAR scores than those born vaginally⁸.
Fetal injury: Very rarely, the baby may be nicked or cut during the incision (1 to 2 babies per 100 will be cut during the surgery⁹).

Wow, that is quite a bit of research. Let me know when you get your MD.

My body. My choice.

jkylie · April 2011

lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.

this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!

SailorGray · April 2011

chandwy11:

I knew from the beginning that I wanted to have a C-section and scheduled it with my dr. at about the 20 week mark. My physician didn't have a problem with my choice because she had made the same one years before. My reasons were simply that I didn't want to risk some of the complications that come from a vaginal birth, primarily associated with weakening the pelvic floor muscles. An added benefit was the planning but by no means an important part of our decision making. My husband is a physician and we did our research which was surprising to me how safe a PLANNED c-section is (compared to a c-section done after pushing for a long period of time). I will also add that the dozen or so women that went to med school with my husband all opted for a c-section as well. It's a personal choice. I wouldn't begrudge anyone for their choices when it comes to their bodies and their birthing experience.

A side note, my DS ended up weighing just shy of 10lbs so I probably would've had a C/S anyway;) And this time around, we already scheduled for Sept. 15th!

This is all very odd to me, but you're an adult and you did your research and you can make your own decisions. I just find this reasoning to be very odd.... weak pelvic muscles? I also wonder about all of the women doctors you know who suggested and took this route b/c every doc, mom, nurse, etc. that I know would never recommend this route. I don't think my doc would even allow it for these reasons.

LJR 84 · April 2011

chandwy11:
lrachelle80:
chandwy11:

I knew from the beginning that I wanted to have a C-section and scheduled it with my dr. at about the 20 week mark. My physician didn't have a problem with my choice because she had made the same one years before. My reasons were simply that I didn't want to risk some of the complications that come from a vaginal birth, primarily associated with weakening the pelvic floor muscles. An added benefit was the planning but by no means an important part of our decision making. My husband is a physician and we did our research which was surprising to me how safe a PLANNED c-section is (compared to a c-section done after pushing for a long period of time). I will also add that the dozen or so women that went to med school with my husband all opted for a c-section as well. It's a personal choice. I wouldn't begrudge anyone for their choices when it comes to their bodies and their birthing experience.

A side note, my DS ended up weighing just shy of 10lbs so I probably would've had a C/S anyway;) And this time around, we already scheduled for Sept. 15th!

Um, I'm having a c-section, and I'm beyond flabbergasted. Let me know who your doctor is so I can avoid him/her in the future? You'd rather take the risks associated with major surgery than pelvic floor weakness?

________________________________

https://www.childbirth.org/section/risks.html

Cesarean birth is major surgery, and, as with other surgical procedures, risks are involved.The estimated risk of a woman dying after a cesarean birth is less than one in 2,500 (the risk of death after a vaginal birth is less than one in 10,000).These are estimated risks for a large population of women. Individual medical conditions such as some heart problems may make the risk of vaginal birth higher than cesarean birth.

Other risks for the mother include the following:

Infection. The uterus or nearby pelvic organs such as the bladder or kidneys can become infected.

Increased blood loss. Blood loss on the average is about twice as much with cesarean birth as with vaginal birth. However, blood transfusions are rarely needed during a cesarean.

Decreased bowel function. The bowel sometimes slows down for several days after surgery, resulting in distention, bloating and discomfort.

Respiratory complications. General anesthesia can sometimes lead to pneumonia.

Longer hospital stay and recovery time. Three to five days in the hospital is the common length of stay, whereas it is less than one to three days for a vaginal birth.

Reactions to anesthesia. The mother's health could be endangered by unexpected responses (such as blood pressure that drops quickly) to anesthesia or other medications during the surgery.

Risk of additional surgeries. For example, hysterectomy, bladder repair, etc.

In cesarean birth, the possible risks to the baby include the following:

Premature birth. If the due date was not accurately calculated, the baby could be delivered too early.

Breathing problems. Babies born by cesarean are more likely to develop breathing problems such as transient tachypnea (abnormally fast breathing during the first few days after birth).

Low Apgar scores. Babies born by cesarean sometimes have low Apgar scores. The low score can be an effect of the anesthesia and cesarean birth, or the baby may have been in distress to begin with. Or perhaps the baby was not stimulated as he or she would have been by vaginal birth.

Fetal injury. Although rare, the surgeon can accidentally nick the baby while making the uterine incision.
___________________________

https://www.webmd.com/baby/tc/cesarean-section-risks-and-complications

Cesarean section is considered relatively safe. It does, however, pose a higher risk of some complications than does a vaginal delivery. If you have a cesarean section, expect a longer recovery time than you would have after a vaginal delivery.

After cesarean section, the most common complications for the mother are:

Infection.

Heavy blood loss.

A blood clot in the legs or lungs.

Nausea, vomiting, and severe headache after the delivery (related to anesthesia and the abdominal procedure).

Bowel problems, such as constipation or when the intestines stop moving waste material normally (ileus).

Maternal death (very rare). The risk of death for women who have a planned cesarean delivery is very low (about 6 in 100,000). For emergency cesarean deliveries, the rate is higher, though still very rare (about 18 in 100,000).¹
Cesarean risks for the infant include:

Injury during the delivery.

Need for special care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).³

Immature lungs and breathing problems, if the due date has been miscalculated or the infant is delivered before 39 weeks of gestation.^3,⁴
While most women recover from both cesarean and vaginal births without complications, it takes more time and special care to heal from cesarean section, which is a major surgery. Women who have a cesarean section without complications spend about 3 days in the hospital, compared with about 2 days for women who deliver vaginally. Full recovery after a cesarean delivery takes 4 to 6 weeks; full recovery after a vaginal delivery takes about 1 to 2 weeks.

Long-term risks of cesarean section

Women who have a uterine cesarean scar have slightly higher long-term risks. These risks, which increase with each additional cesarean delivery, include:⁵

Breaking open of the incision scar during a later pregnancy or labor (uterine rupture). For more information, see the topic Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC).

Placenta previa, the growth of the placenta low in the uterus, blocking the cervix.

Placenta accreta, placenta increta, placenta percreta (least to most severe). These problems occur when the placenta grows deeper into the uterine wall than normal, which can lead to severe bleeding after childbirth, and sometimes may require a hysterectomy.

_______________________________________

https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/c-section/MY00214/DSECTION=risks

Recovery from a C-section takes longer than does recovery from a vaginal birth. And like other types of major surgery, C-sections also carry a higher risk of complications.

Risks to your baby include:

Breathing problems. Babies born by C-section are more likely to develop transient tachypnea ? a breathing problem marked by abnormally fast breathing during the first few days after birth. Elective C-sections done before 39 weeks of pregnancy or without proof of the baby's lung maturity may increase the risk of other breathing problems, including respiratory distress syndrome ? a condition that makes it difficult to breathe.

Fetal injury. Although rare, accidental nicks to the baby's skin can occur during surgery.
Risks to you include:

Inflammation and infection of the membrane lining the uterus. This condition ? known as endometritis ? may cause fever, chills, back pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and uterine pain. It's often treated with intravenous (IV) antibiotics.

Increased bleeding. You may lose more blood with a C-section than with a vaginal birth. Blood transfusions are rarely needed, however.

Reactions to anesthesia. After regional anesthesia, it's possible to experience a headache caused by a leak of the fluid around the spinal canal into the tissues of the back. Allergic or adverse reactions to the anesthetic also are possible.

Blood clots. The risk of developing a blood clot inside a vein ? especially in the legs or pelvic organs ? is greater after a C-section than after a vaginal delivery. If a blood clot travels to your lungs (pulmonary embolism), the damage can be life-threatening. Your health care team will take steps to prevent blood clots. You can help, too, by walking frequently soon after surgery.

Wound infection. An infection at or around the incision site is possible.

Surgical injury. Although rare, surgical injuries to nearby organs can occur during a C-section. If this happens, additional surgery may be needed.

Increased risks during future pregnancies. After a C-section, you face a higher risk of potentially serious complications ? including bleeding, placenta previa and tearing of the uterus along the scar line from the prior C-section (uterine rupture) ? in a subsequent pregnancy than you would after a vaginal delivery.

_________________________________

https://www.americanpregnancy.org/labornbirth/cesareanrisks.html

With any major surgical procedure, there are risks involved. It is important to know and understand your risks before a cesarean procedure, so that you may feel equipped to talk with your health care provider and make informed decisions.

Risks and Complications for the Mom:

Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site, in the uterus and in other pelvic organs such as the bladder.

Hemorrhage or increased blood loss: There is more blood loss in a cesarean delivery than with a vaginal delivery. This can lead to anemia or a blood transfusion (1 to 6 women per 100 require a blood transfusion¹).

Injury to organs: Possible injury to organs such as the bowel or bladder (2 per 100²).

Adhesions: Scar tissue may form inside the pelvic region causing blockage and pain. This can also lead to future pregnancy complication such as placenta previa or placental abruption³.

Extended hospital stay: After a cesarean, the normal time in the hospital is 3-5 days after giving birth if there are no complications.

Extended recovery time: The amount of time needed for recovery after a cesarean can extend from weeks to months, having an impact on bonding time with your baby (1 in 14 report incisional pain six months or more after surgery⁴).

Reactions to medications: There can be a negative reaction to the anesthesia given during a cesarean or reaction to pain medication given after the procedure.

Risk of additional surgeries: Such as hysterectomy, bladder repair or another cesarean.

Maternal mortality: The maternal mortality rate for a cesarean is greater than with a vaginal birth.

Emotional reactions: Women who have a cesarean report feeling negatively about their birth experience and may have trouble with initial bonding with their baby⁵.
Risks and Complications for the Baby:

Premature birth: If gestational age was not calculated correctly, a baby delivered by cesarean could be delivered too early and be low birth weight⁶.

Breathing problems: When delivered by cesarean, a baby is more likely to have breathing and respiratory difficulties. Some studies show an increased need for assistance with breathing and immediate care after a cesarean than with a vaginal delivery⁷.

Low APGAR scores: Low APGAR scores can be the result of anesthesia, fetal distress before the delivery or lack of stimulation during delivery (vaginal birth provides natural stimulation to the baby while in the birth canal). Babies born by cesarean are 50% more likely to have lower APGAR scores than those born vaginally⁸.

Fetal injury: Very rarely, the baby may be nicked or cut during the incision (1 to 2 babies per 100 will be cut during the surgery⁹).

Wow, that is quite a bit of research. Let me know when you get your MD.
My body. My choice.

Haha. Yes, thanks for copy/pasting the book lrachelle. Confused

MrsGo4Hockeychick · April 2011

SailorGray:
chandwy11:

I knew from the beginning that I wanted to have a C-section and scheduled it with my dr. at about the 20 week mark. My physician didn't have a problem with my choice because she had made the same one years before. My reasons were simply that I didn't want to risk some of the complications that come from a vaginal birth, primarily associated with weakening the pelvic floor muscles. An added benefit was the planning but by no means an important part of our decision making. My husband is a physician and we did our research which was surprising to me how safe a PLANNED c-section is (compared to a c-section done after pushing for a long period of time). I will also add that the dozen or so women that went to med school with my husband all opted for a c-section as well. It's a personal choice. I wouldn't begrudge anyone for their choices when it comes to their bodies and their birthing experience.
A side note, my DS ended up weighing just shy of 10lbs so I probably would've had a C/S anyway;) And this time around, we already scheduled for Sept. 15th!
This is all very odd to me, but you're an adult and you did your research and you can make your own decisions. I just find this reasoning to be very odd.... weak pelvic muscles? I also wonder about all of the women doctors you know who suggested and took this route b/c every doc, mom, nurse, etc. that I know would never recommend this route. I don't think my doc would even allow it for these reasons.

that's because any reputable and ethical doctor won't. Sure, you can find one that will do it...but they're basically the OB equivalent of Octomom's RE.

JaysonandKristin · April 2011

jkylie:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!

You don't want a doctor who allows you to do whatever you'd like to do with your body and your baby? We've gone through the boards together twice now, and I know that you aren't ignorant enough to make such a serious decision without doing major research and talking to your doctor. So, if you do your own research, discuss your decision with your doctor and ultimately make the decision to proceed with a c/s, you'd rather your doctor flat out refused you?

Edit: This mentality just sounds like there are some women who want their doctors to protect them from themselves and their own rational decisions.

Lissa832 · April 2011

The final decision will not be nade for a couple of months. However, my experience after delivering DS has terrified me to have another vaginal birth. I had a fusion done on my neck 4 years ago. I am now more susceptible to injury. Over the course of two years prior to my surgery, I injured myself four times. All injuries were caused by routine, daily activities. My third injury was when I delivered DS. I can handle the contractions and even the fourth degree tear again. I can't handle hurting my neck again. The pain is debilitating for around three months, and until you have felt that kind of pain, you can't really say what you can and can't handle.

marriedfilingjointly · April 2011

Haha. Some women who went to med school want C-secs. Neat. I went to college or high school with at least a half dozen people who went on to med school who are complete morons. Book smart, sure; good doctors, one would hope; but I sure won't be making life decisions based on theirs just because they went to med school.

MrsGo4Hockeychick · April 2011

marriedfilingjointly:
Haha. Some women who went to med school want C-secs. Neat. I went to college or high school with at least a half dozen people who went on to med school who are complete morons. Book smart, sure; good doctors, one would hope; but I sure won't be making life decisions based on theirs just because they went to med school.

no, she's even smarter because she didn't even have to go through all the work herself, she just MARRIED someone who did.

edit: I used to work with some pretty stupid doctors. Not the least of which was the one who was shocked twice during a code because he didn't/wouldn't let go of the bed. He would have been shocked a third time had a nurse not shoved him out of the way. After, he told one of the nurses that he didn't realize yelling "all clear" meant the doctors had to too.

islandgirl79 · April 2011

If my doctor wants to perform patient chosen c-sections I don't care. It doesn't have anything to with me personally. I have never spoken to my OB about it because it is not something I am interested in.

sleepingbeauty825 · April 2011

FTR, my OB also told me that a planned c section is way more easy to recover from than a failed induction where you complete and push but don't deliver.

MrsGo4Hockeychick · April 2011

JaysonandKristin:
jkylie:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!
You don't want a doctor who allows you to do whatever you'd like to do with your body and your baby? We've gone through the boards together twice now, and I know that you aren't ignorant enough to make such a serious decision without doing major research and talking to your doctor. So, if you do your own research, discuss your decision with your doctor and ultimately make the decision to proceed with a c/s, you'd rather your doctor flat out refused you?
Edit: This mentality just sounds like there are some women who want their doctors to protect them from themselves and their own rational decisions.

a doctor's job is not to do whatever their patients want. No matter what kind of University of Google research they've done.

A CV surgeon isn't going to do a bypass because a patient would prefer surgery to medication and diet changes. Heck, you'll have a hard time finding a surgeon who will do a mastectomy if you carry the breast cancer gene.

bluerevolution9 · April 2011

Lissa832:
The final decision will not be nade for a couple of months. However, my experience after delivering DS has terrified me to have another vaginal birth. I had a fusion done on my neck 4 years ago. I am now more susceptible to injury. Over the course of two years prior to my surgery, I injured myself four times. All injuries were caused by routine, daily activities. My third injury was when I delivered DS. I can handle the contractions and even the fourth degree tear again. I can't handle hurting my neck again. The pain is debilitating for around three months, and until you have felt that kind of pain, you can't really say what you can and can't handle.

Can I make a suggestion to those who want a CS because of fear? PLEASE for your own sake and your babies read these two books : Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and Birthing From Within. You owe it to yourself to find a therapist/ doula/ midwife/ ect to help you work through your birth trauma so that you can have a positive birth (whether it is vaginal or ends up being a CS). Birth affects so much about a woman and her mothering confidence. Women who have traumatic birth experiences are more likely to suffer from postpartum depression and to have a harder time connection to their baby. I have worked with a lot of women who had traumatic first births and were able to have very positive second births. Don't let the fear overcome you.

marriedfilingjointly · April 2011

MrsGo4Hockeychick:
marriedfilingjointly:
Haha. Some women who went to med school want C-secs. Neat. I went to college or high school with at least a half dozen people who went on to med school who are complete morons. Book smart, sure; good doctors, one would hope; but I sure won't be making life decisions based on theirs just because they went to med school.
no, she's even smarter because she didn't even have to go through all the work herself, she just MARRIED someone who did.

edit: I used to work with some pretty stupid doctors. Not the least of which was the one who was shocked twice during a code because he didn't/wouldn't let go of the bed. He would have been shocked a third time had a nurse not shoved him out of the way. After, he told one of the nurses that he didn't realize yelling "all clear" meant the doctors had to too.

Ha! I will never forget this pre-med chick in my chemistry 101 class. The prof was talking about making up labs if you are sick or are an athlete and have an away game. She asked if she could always do her lab separately because she was on the soccer team and it was hard to go straight from class to practice. She had some other funny gems where I just wanted to pat her on the head. Graduated with a 4.0 and went on to a very prominent med school.

LJR 84 · April 2011

sleepingbeauty825:
FTR, my OB also told me that a planned c section is way more easy to recover from than a failed induction where you complete and push but don't deliver.

That was always my fear. I always hear horror stories about women being in labor for 40 hours and then having an emergency c/s. (This just recently happened to my cousin).

Regardless, I find it amusing how many women on here get themselves all worked up over what other women choose to do with their bodies. I couldn't care less what someone else does. (This seems to be the case with BF'ing as well). It really makes me wonder about some people...

JaysonandKristin · April 2011

MrsGo4Hockeychick:
JaysonandKristin:
jkylie:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!
You don't want a doctor who allows you to do whatever you'd like to do with your body and your baby? We've gone through the boards together twice now, and I know that you aren't ignorant enough to make such a serious decision without doing major research and talking to your doctor. So, if you do your own research, discuss your decision with your doctor and ultimately make the decision to proceed with a c/s, you'd rather your doctor flat out refused you?
Edit: This mentality just sounds like there are some women who want their doctors to protect them from themselves and their own rational decisions.
a doctor's job is not to do whatever their patients want. No matter what kind of University of Google research they've done.
A CV surgeon isn't going to do a bypass because a patient would prefer surgery to medication and diet changes. Heck, you'll have a hard time finding a surgeon who will do a mastectomy if you carry the breast cancer gene.

We are talking c/s not cardio and certainly not oncology... And, I also stated that discussion with your doctor is part of the decision making process. So, no matter what "research" you think isn't adequate enough, you have the opportunity to discuss the information you find with your doc. He/she can either refute or validate your concerns. Then, you get to decide whether you want to continue as a patient of this doc.

But, I don't agree that a doctor should have a final say regarding a woman's method of birthing.

othello888 · April 2011

I wish I had scheduled a CS with DD. Her delivery almost killed both us. I ended up with an emergency c-section without enough pain meds. I never want to go through that again. My baby had no heartbeat and the dr's thought I would stroke out. I will be scheduling with #2. Maybe these women who choose to have a c-section, have some maternal instinct where they know they can't deliver naturally. Who knows. I would love to deliver naturally, but I know I can't.

MrsGo4Hockeychick · April 2011

JaysonandKristin:
MrsGo4Hockeychick:
JaysonandKristin:
jkylie:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!
You don't want a doctor who allows you to do whatever you'd like to do with your body and your baby? We've gone through the boards together twice now, and I know that you aren't ignorant enough to make such a serious decision without doing major research and talking to your doctor. So, if you do your own research, discuss your decision with your doctor and ultimately make the decision to proceed with a c/s, you'd rather your doctor flat out refused you?
Edit: This mentality just sounds like there are some women who want their doctors to protect them from themselves and their own rational decisions.
a doctor's job is not to do whatever their patients want. No matter what kind of University of Google research they've done.
A CV surgeon isn't going to do a bypass because a patient would prefer surgery to medication and diet changes. Heck, you'll have a hard time finding a surgeon who will do a mastectomy if you carry the breast cancer gene.

We are talking c/s not cardio and certainly not oncology... And, I also stated that discussion with your doctor is part of the decision making process. So, no matter what "research" you think isn't adequate enough, you have the opportunity to discuss the information you find with your doc. He/she can either refute or validate your concerns. Then, you get to decide whether you want to continue as a patient of this doc.
But, I don't agree that a doctor should have a final say regarding a woman's method of birthing.

unnecessary surgery is unnecessary surgery. it doesn't matter what kind it is.

jkylie · April 2011

sleepingbeauty825:
FTR, my OB also told me that a planned c section is way more easy to recover from than a failed induction where you complete and push but don't deliver.

I dont think anyone can argue this. If you try to deliver vag and fail you are still going through the "labor" but end up having a c-section. yeah i can totally see why this would be harder to recover from.

marriedfilingjointly · April 2011

LJR 84:
sleepingbeauty825:
FTR, my OB also told me that a planned c section is way more easy to recover from than a failed induction where you complete and push but don't deliver.

That was always my fear. I always hear horror stories about women being in labor for 40 hours and then having an emergency c/s. (This just recently happened to my cousin).

Regardless, I find it amusing how many women on here get themselves all worked up over what other women choose to do with their bodies. I couldn't care less what someone else does. (This seems to be the case with BF'ing as well). It really makes me wonder about some people...

I don't think it's so much worrying about what other women do with their bodies, as long as they are making an informed decision. I think it's more the concept of spreading fear, ignorance, and misinformation that some of us have a problem with.

jkylie · April 2011

JaysonandKristin:
jkylie:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!
You don't want a doctor who allows you to do whatever you'd like to do with your body and your baby? We've gone through the boards together twice now, and I know that you aren't ignorant enough to make such a serious decision without doing major research and talking to your doctor. So, if you do your own research, discuss your decision with your doctor and ultimately make the decision to proceed with a c/s, you'd rather your doctor flat out refused you?
Edit: This mentality just sounds like there are some women who want their doctors to protect them from themselves and their own rational decisions.

Maybe I should have worded this differently and not quoted someone. But doing your research and women choosing just because is totally different. I wouldn't want a dr that doesn't make me RESEARCH or make me GIVE REASONS for my choice. I would want a dr. who makes me choose the right decision for my body for xyz reason...not "just cuz" im scared of labor or peeing myself or tearing, etc. etc.

JaysonandKristin · April 2011

MrsGo4Hockeychick:
JaysonandKristin:
MrsGo4Hockeychick:
JaysonandKristin:
jkylie:
lrachelle80:
Unless you have a medical issue (even one most people wouldn't consider necessary for a c-section, i.e. my 4'9" cousin's doctor told her she could have one to birth her estimated 9.5lb baby) or previous c-section, I don't know a single ethical doctor that would let you choose a c-section just because.
this this this! I wouldn't want that dr. to be mine that does allow you to choose just bc!
You don't want a doctor who allows you to do whatever you'd like to do with your body and your baby? We've gone through the boards together twice now, and I know that you aren't ignorant enough to make such a serious decision without doing major research and talking to your doctor. So, if you do your own research, discuss your decision with your doctor and ultimately make the decision to proceed with a c/s, you'd rather your doctor flat out refused you?
Edit: This mentality just sounds like there are some women who want their doctors to protect them from themselves and their own rational decisions.
a doctor's job is not to do whatever their patients want. No matter what kind of University of Google research they've done.
A CV surgeon isn't going to do a bypass because a patient would prefer surgery to medication and diet changes. Heck, you'll have a hard time finding a surgeon who will do a mastectomy if you carry the breast cancer gene.

We are talking c/s not cardio and certainly not oncology... And, I also stated that discussion with your doctor is part of the decision making process. So, no matter what "research" you think isn't adequate enough, you have the opportunity to discuss the information you find with your doc. He/she can either refute or validate your concerns. Then, you get to decide whether you want to continue as a patient of this doc.
But, I don't agree that a doctor should have a final say regarding a woman's method of birthing.
unnecessary surgery is unnecessary surgery. it doesn't matter what kind it is.

Unnecessary to whom? To YOU? The surgery is necessary to birth a child if a woman is unwilling or cannot give birth vaginally.

There are 2 methods of birthing a child. And, both are legitimate forms of birthing. So, whether your child is born vaginally or born via c/s, they're still going to end up as outside babies.

If you don't want to assume the risk of surgery, that's fine. I sincerely hope you never have to assume those risks.

SailorGray · April 2011

LJR 84:

Regardless, I find it amusing how many women on here get themselves all worked up over what other women choose to do with their bodies. I couldn't care less what someone else does. (This seems to be the case with BF'ing as well). It really makes me wonder about some people...

See my issue is when people come on here talking about how they are married to a doc and all of his doctor friends say this or that....etc. I know a lot of women who would put more weight on what that woman says than what others are saying. That poster is not a doc. Her opinion may offer insight, but it holds just as much weight as anyone's opinion. I am not faulting her for posting her opinion. I just really hope that people realize that just because her H is a doctor it does mean she knows more than any of us.

Does that make sense? I really don't care how people deliver their babies. I was very fortunate in that I had a vaginal delivery without complications with my DS. It was an absolutely wonderful experience. I just would hate that someone would pass up that chance just b/c they are now worried about weak pelvic muscles.

MrsGo4Hockeychick · April 2011

JaysonandKristin:
Unnecessary to whom? To YOU? The surgery is necessary to birth a child if a woman is unwilling or cannot give birth vaginally.
There are 2 methods of birthing a child. And, both are legitimate forms of birthing. So, whether your child is born vaginally or born via c/s, they're still going to end up as outside babies.
If you don't want to assume the risk of surgery, that's fine. I sincerely hope you never have to assume those risks.

surgery is not NECESSARY to birth a baby a good majority of the time.

Unwillingness is not a medical reason to have surgery.

No one has said that anyone who needs a c/s should not have one.

I had a c/s with my daughter. It was medically necessary.

Having a c/s because of fear or attitude/unwillingness are not medical reasons, and doctors are right to not do major surgery for them. And yes, I judge the hell out of people who choose a method of delivery that is less safe because they're worried about ruining their vaginas or other selfish and ridiculous reasons. (and for anyone with their panties in a bunch, I'm torn myself on repeat c/s vs vbac and would never judge one choice over the other).

And yes, I care because the misinformation and culture of fear affects more than just the mother having that baby. It feeds into our entire birth culture in the US and it does nothing to help lower health care costs.

rainlily · April 2011

I have several friends that chose to have c-sections. Their doctors agreed to it and they paid out of pocket for the surgery. Three of the them said that they were "too posh to push". The other friend is a health care practitioner/owner of a practice. She felt that she needed to schedule a c-section to make sure that she had adequate coverage in her office. She felt that her employees depended on her for their income and she wanted to schedule a temporary practitioner starting on a specific date. I know for certain that none of the first 3 friends did any research, they just wouldn't ever consider a vaginal birth. The fourth friend struggled with her decision, but felt it was the best decision for her.

Lissa832 · April 2011

bluerevolution9:
Lissa832:
The final decision will not be nade for a couple of months. However, my experience after delivering DS has terrified me to have another vaginal birth. I had a fusion done on my neck 4 years ago. I am now more susceptible to injury. Over the course of two years prior to my surgery, I injured myself four times. All injuries were caused by routine, daily activities. My third injury was when I delivered DS. I can handle the contractions and even the fourth degree tear again. I can't handle hurting my neck again. The pain is debilitating for around three months, and until you have felt that kind of pain, you can't really say what you can and can't handle.
Can I make a suggestion to those who want a CS because of fear? PLEASE for your own sake and your babies read these two books : Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and Birthing From Within. You owe it to yourself to find a therapist/ doula/ midwife/ ect to help you work through your birth trauma so that you can have a positive birth (whether it is vaginal or ends up being a CS). Birth affects so much about a woman and her mothering confidence. Women who have traumatic birth experiences are more likely to suffer from postpartum depression and to have a harder time connection to their baby. I have worked with a lot of women who had traumatic first births and were able to have very positive second births. Don't let the fear overcome you.

If you had read my entire comment, you could see that I am terrified, but I also have valid concerns. I could barely hold my child for three months because I was in so much pain. I could move my neck at all. Pain radiated down my right arm, which also made it difficult to move. I have partial nerve damage because of the herniation. Feeding my ds was the hardest daily activity because of the way i had to hold him to do so. I have not committed to a c-section, but I need to be sure that I will not have the same outcome that I did the first time. I am limited in the activities that I can do now, but I had a good outcome from the surgery. If I were to injure myself again, which isnhighly probable, I could suffer permanent nerve damage that I will not be able to correct. I am not just saying, "give me a c-section because I'm scared." I have valid concerns which need to be satisfied before I commit to trying another vaginal birth.

MrsMoody2006 · April 2011

chandwy11:
I knew from the beginning that I wanted to have a C-section and scheduled it with my dr. at about the 20 week mark. My physician didn't have a problem with my choice because she had made the same one years before. My reasons were simply that I didn't want to risk some of the complications that come from a vaginal birth, primarily associated with weakening the pelvic floor muscles. An added benefit was the planning but by no means an important part of our decision making. My husband is a physician and we did our research which was surprising to me how safe a PLANNED c-section is (compared to a c-section done after pushing for a long period of time). I will also add that the dozen or so women that went to med school with my husband all opted for a c-section as well. It's a personal choice. I wouldn't begrudge anyone for their choices when it comes to their bodies and their birthing experience.
A side note, my DS ended up weighing just shy of 10lbs so I probably would've had a C/S anyway;) And this time around, we already scheduled for Sept. 15th!

but you had no qualms with the risks of a c/s?

elynds · April 2011

SailorGray:
LJR 84:

Regardless, I find it amusing how many women on here get themselves all worked up over what other women choose to do with their bodies. I couldn't care less what someone else does. (This seems to be the case with BF'ing as well). It really makes me wonder about some people...
See my issue is when people come on here talking about how they are married to a doc and all of his doctor friends say this or that....etc. I know a lot of women who would put more weight on what that woman says than what others are saying. That poster is not a doc. Her opinion may offer insight, but it holds just as much weight as anyone's opinion. I am not faulting her for posting her opinion. I just really hope that people realize that just because her H is a doctor it does mean she knows more than any of us.
Does that make sense? I really don't care how people deliver their babies. I was very fortunate in that I had a vaginal delivery without complications with my DS. It was an absolutely wonderful experience. I just would hate that someone would pass up that chance just b/c they are now worried about weak pelvic muscles.

Totally agree. And just to show that there are 2 sides to everything, I'm also married to a doctor and he's totally against C-sections (we chose a doctor with an extremely low c-section rate). I personally would prefer not to have one, especially after he described the process to me.

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Re: if you are choosing c-section over vaginal birth

Long-term risks of cesarean section

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Risks and Complications for the Baby:

Long-term risks of cesarean section

Risks and Complications for the Mom:

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