Time for serious decisions

Hi Katrina

Congratulations on being 35 weeks pregnant, that's wonderful news. I am sorry to hear of the big decisions you are being asked to make, but glad you are reaching out for help.

The decision about the plan is certainly an important one.  I’d recommend speaking to your Obstetrician about your concerns and worry, and talk to them about the risks of a caesarean vs a natural birth. They will be well aware of your situation medically and be able to give you guidance on the best option for you and for the baby.  If the caesarean is the best option for you both, it would also be a good idea to talk to the anaesthetist regarding your concerns about the anaesthetic, and the impact this may have on your movement and consciousness. Make sure they know how you are feeling about theses impacts.

I’d encourage you to write down a list of questions for your doctors that will help you to make an informed decision. Be sure to be open and honest with them about your concern regarding the caesarean and the anaesthetic.

 Have you had any contact with a mid-wife throughout your pregnancy?  They may also be able to provide you with support about the upcoming decision, and what will happen during the caesarean.

It’s great that you are reaching out to other stroke survivors. There are a number of others on EnableMe who have had children following their stroke, and they might be able to provide you with their experiences and their support.

 It sounds like the choices you are having to make are having an impact on your emotional health, have you considered reaching to a psychologist about these feelings? It can be helpful to talk to someone about strategies you can use to manage your feelings, and they might be able to help with strategies to manage your panic if you are anaesthetised and cannot move easily.  You can speak with your local doctor about a Mental Health Care Plan and a psychology referral. 

It sounds like you have good family support, which is great to hear, so be open with them about how you are feeling.

One of our health professionals here at StrokeLine would be happy to talk with you in more detail about what you are going through.  You are welcome to give us a call on Ph. 1800 787 653 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

Warm regards

Siobhan (StrokeLine)

Hi Katrina, not sure if my thoughts as a male are relevant, but I think back when my two kids were born (I was present). I remember my wife and the pain she had to endure - someone said to me that if men had to give birth, we would die. My view: two important points here - your life and your baby's life. I'd go with the safe option: for u and the baby. You could ask your husband to record the birth, so you can watch later? Good luck!

Hi Kat,

Congratulations on making it to 35 weeks ! A mammoth team effort. My thoughts:

Safety first. I do understand your desire to experience a natural birth and you are allowed to feel all those conflicting thoughts. Feel it all !

I had a casearean for Ally at 38 weeks , she was breech. And that was after Harry's natural birth also at 38 weeks, I'd had a great birth and was really looking forward to giving  birth naturally again however wasn't able to. I requested a casearean for Bonnie as I was in a different town and nobody seemed particularly thrilled at what my medical history bought !! Safety first.

I allowed myself to feel it all. Only expressing those feelings with my husband and counsellor. Safety first for me too ! 

It's great to have a professional team around but I do understand the want to just talk regular, I was so over the attention to my pregnancies by the time I had our babies !!

Thinking good thoughts for you Kat !!

Hugs

Sue

Hey Kat,

I thought that you may like reading Sue's newest blog. As I am.

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