What birth plan would you choose if you were me?

Question

Hi everyone! FTM here.
My son is very big for unknown reasons. I know growth spurts happen, but he’s been consistently huge since 18 weeks. 
I’m currently 33 weeks and high risk. Baby is measuring in the 97th percentile, and his tummy is in the 100th percentile. He’s currently estimated to be 10+ pounds at birth.
I know measurements can be off, but I have an ultrasound every 2 weeks, and have since 18 weeks because of being high risk.
If I opt for natural birth, I risk an emergency C-section if his shoulders get stuck in the birth canal. He has been head down for weeks, so at least he’s not breech.
Thoughts?

Answer

I’m in a similar situation and have been doing some reading. This was a good article backed up from a study by doctors in Geneva (always trust the Swiss... they’ve got their heads screwed on!) 
Highlights being, at 39 weeks, there was no differences in csection rates between an induction group and a non induction group. 
Points to consider being at 39 weeks, one week early induction may not be enough to effect a big enough difference and if you’re going to induce, 38 weeks may be more beneficial.
Hope the article helps. I’m still weighing my options.

Answer

My OB told me about a recent study that found that induction in the 39th week actually *lowers* the risk of other medical interventions. (Such as c-sections or the use of vacuum or forceps.) It was always thought that any one medical intervention increases your chances of needing more, but the evidence supports otherwise in this instance.

Answer

If it was me I would choose the safest option for baby and me! Trust your gut

Answer

My daughter’s shoulders got stuck in the birth canal. I didn’t have to have an emergency c-section, because we got her out. That wasn’t without trauma though. 
I had about 3 nurses on top of me pushing as hard as they could on my belly, while I was pushing with all my might (after 3 hours of pushing, because she was so big), and the doctor trying to pull her out. After they got her shoulder dislodged and she was out, the doctor said “did you hear that? That clavicle is definitely broken.” For the 2 weeks that followed, my baby couldn’t move her arm at all, and we weren’t sure if she was going to be paralyzed from the nerve damage. We had to see physical therapists for her arm too. Luckily, she made a full recovery, but should dystocia is so scary. It can even cause death, because they are stuck there and can’t get oxygen. My
Daughter turned blue and didn’t cry right away. 
For my current pregnancy, and any following, I will be having c sections because of it. The doctors gave me a choice, but suggested c section. I knew I wanted c section though. I would much rather I go through a surgery to ensure the safety of my baby, rather than risk something horrible happen to her. I would never forgive myself if I made that decision and it turned out badly. 
Just my opinion, based off my experience. Obviously, everyone is different. Just wanted to give some insight. Good luck with your decision!

Answer

Trust your gut

Answer

I would see a chiropractor and/or craniosacral therapist who specializes in helping prepare women's bodies for labor. Our pelvis shape can change during pregnancy to accommodate the weight of the growing baby. Chiro or CST can help reshape and mobilize your pelvis to promote the safe and healthy delivery of even a large baby!

Answer

Trust yourself to know what decision is best for you and your baby.

Answer

None of the above. I would get a labor epidural and you’ll be ready incase you need a c-section.

Answer

It’s a tough decision but with inductions there’s also a greater risk of more medical interventions needed such as a c-section. And I just can’t imagine a week or two making such a big difference especially since weight is just estimated and they frequently can be off by a pound or two.

Answer

Same here. My first child was born at 8lbs 5oz which was very large for myself. I am 36 weeks and baby is weighing 7lbs as of last Monday. The risk for me would be a shoulder dystocia which also happened with my first. Not sure if this is what you mean by getting stuck in birth canal. I was offered a csection which I declined. Birth plan is to membrane sweep starting at 37 weeks to see if we get any progress without medication. If by 39 weeks baby is not born I will be induced.

What birth plan would you choose if you were me?

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