Mental health/c - section

So, not quite the same I was told by a brain surgeon many moons ago I would have to have c-sections, but when I came to having my first, I opted for a c-section, in my first pregnancy I had awful perinatal anxiety, depression and intrusive thoughts, the moment my baby didn’t move I thought she’d died every hour of the day; the day of my c-section was the calmest I’d been knowing it wasn’t up to my body anymore. I was told they wouldn’t bring it forward despite my mental health, although on my second consultation they brought it forward by a day as I complete had a mental breakdown, no one fought me on my decision for a c-section both medically and mentally. My second pregnancy, was completely different it was bliss and I had no anxiety, and it was a physically awful and stressful pregnancy with multiple complications, I had a cat 3 section and it was a great experience, every pregnancy is different but make sure you advocate for yourself, knowing the date helped me to ease

A little, as I couldn’t go on, but I absolutely would say do what’s best for you, they are unlikely to do it before 39 weeks unless of a medical need xx

I was induced with my second baby because of mental health but they left it really late to help me but this time I’ve received help from the beginning but feel like I’m declining already. Did they book you in for 39weeks as I’ve been told a lot of the time that’s when they wait for? X

It’s entirely your decision. Just let them know ASAP, as they’ll book an appointment with a consultant to discuss the risks etc (this is for every person/pregnancy). I opted for a section with my second (after having an emergency with my first) and I had no reason, other than that’s what I wanted, and no one batted an eyelid ☺️ it was booked in for 39 weeks x

Yes I opted for a C-section due to mental health issues. Although I’m not diagnosed with any mental health conditions, my first labour and birthing experience was very traumatic for me. I think I developed PTSD from it tbh. This time around I requested a C-section straight away at the booking appointment, then had to have a birth choices appointment to talk through the risks of C-section, then had to see a consultant to ok it. I’m 31 weeks now and find out my C-section date next week which will be at 39 weeks.

Thank you everyone x

I was booked in at 38 weeks & 3 days , I was under complex care & perinatal care & even got to choose my day ( I wanted Monday), I had a perfectly normal pregnancy so they were happy to support me x

@Rani I am under complex care with a mental health midwife and a perinatal mental health consultant so I’m hoping they’ll take me seriously 😭 x

Hi there- I requested a csection for mental health reasons and my midwife was very supportive of that. Should say I’m not under the care of perinatal mental health. In my trust I couldn’t be referred to consultant to discuss my request until 34 weeks (I think this may be different for different trusts). Saw them at 34 weeks, no problem, and have been booked in for 40+2. Wishing you all the best x