Advice needed!

fatlard64 · April 2015

So I've been on bedrest since February bc of my low lying placenta. I've had to episodes of some light bleeding, one which led to an overnight stay in the hospital bc I was actually having contractions. All is under control now, just having to take it super easy.
I'm 35 weeks. Just had my placenta checked again and it still hasn't moved. Basically.. My placenta is right on the edge of my cervix. It's not covering the opening yet.. But it's a little too close for comfort.
My OB says we will continue to monitor it as the next few weeks and see if it gets out of the way or if it decides it wants to cover the cervix completely.
My dilemma is.... If it stays where it is.. Should I try to deliver vaginally? Or should I just opt for a CS?
If we try vaginally, two things can happen... When the cervix opens, the placenta can move with it. Stay out of the way, and the baby comes out. OR.. The cervix opens and then I'll start hemorrhaging.
Both outcomes are equally as possible at this point.
What would you do? Has anyone gone through any of this before?

I really want to delivery vaginally since it is my first baby. But am scared that if I choose to do vaginally and something goes wrong... What are the consequences? Like, will they be able to stop the bleeding? Obviously they would do an emergency CS... But how long does baby have until she starts losing oxygen? So many questions in my head!
My OB Seems very laid back about it, and basically said its up to me what we do. I would really love for her to just tell me what she thinks is my best option. Maybe once we get closer to due date she'll give me more feedback.

SassFrass · April 2015

My hospital automatically does cs in your situation due to the severity in possible consequences. They explained that they've had cases where they dont know ahead of time, and the l&d nurses literally have rode to the OR with their hand in the patient between the baby and placenta or umbilical cord to prevent anything from moving wrong until the baby is removed.

Personally I wouldn't risk it and schedule a cs. I def would discuss this with your provider though, they can ultimately give the best advice.

MrsWhiteToBe · April 2015

I had the same problem with a partial placenta previa. I was lucky and mine corrected itself, but my dr told me if it didn't I would have to have a c section. There's a big risk of blood loss for the mother. Even if the placenta moves out of the way when your cervix opens, your baby's head can crush it and cause severe bleeding. My dr said that there's less risk to the baby, but there is a very real chance you could bleed to death. I wouldn't risk it. There's no shame in a c section. You still built a human using only your body. It doesn't matter what orifice they come out of.

beaseg · April 2015

I'm super granola, but I'll admit if I were you in this position- I'd probably opt for the C Section. Better safe than sorry is how I'd be looking at it, even if that isn't exactly a rational thought. Any fear in birthing would just sour the vaginal delivery for me, personally.

CateOfChicago · April 2015

To avoid any issues with LO and your future ability to carry babies, I would go cs. I'm sending prayers that it corrects itself and you don't have to choose.

Rosiethird · April 2015

You bleeding is a huge issue when it comes to placenta previa. A c/s is definitely the safest option for you, as the risks of labouring with the potential haemorrhaging can result in an emergency hysterectomy. If they can't stop you bleeding that's their only option. I've looked after 2 women who had premature labour with grade 2 placenta previa and this was the unfortunate outcome.

kpmarie · April 2015

Personally I would go c-section. Just to make sure you & LO are OK. Right now your health is all that matters. They have had you on bed rest for a reason. Best of luck and I will be sending my prayers for you both

gamergirl83 · April 2015

C-section is what I would do in your situation. For your own safety and you LO. Sending prayers your way!

ArcadianDreams · April 2015

I'd probably get the c/s too, and I'm generally in the crunchier camp as well. Even terrific midwives from parts of the world where c/s are uncommon don't have 100% rates, and these sorts of situations are why. There are real, dangerous things that can happen during pregnancy. It's crappy luck and no one's fault, but it happens. There's no shame in having a medically warranted c/s.

bean8213 · April 2015

I'm a med free, intervention free, crazy crunchy person, but I would also go for a csection in your situation. The end goal is a safe mom and baby - attempting a vaginal birth puts you both at risk.