AF & SVT and labour

[Amy2805]

Hi everyone, has anyone of you got any advice you can give me please. I’m 31 weeks pregnant and trying to sort a birthing plan. I have scoliosis so epidural isn’t possible. I have seen the cardiologist and the anaesthetist and they have said I need a planned calm birth to control my heart rate. So it would either be natural delivery with epidural (which he said I can’t have because of my spine) or c section with general anaesthetic. I have seen a few different doctors in obstetrician department all telling me different things. Just looking to see if anyone has any experience for me please? Thanks so much

[bantam12]

Babies have their own plans so whatever you decide might not happen on the day !!

After 2 awful natural births the 3rd planned C section was definitely the best decision I made, no brainier 🙂

I didn't have heart issues then but did have other medical problems.

[10gingercats]

I have a 'not noticeable' scoliosis and had an epidural for a caesarian when another medical kicked in. Be guided by your medical team but the c. section worked out very well for me.....a long time ago in a Middle Eastern country!

[Buffafly]

I am a bit surprised about the scoliosis comment because when I had a spinal operation (for scoliosis) the surgeon used an epidural for pain relief. But then he was an expert so I guess it makes a difference. I went to natural childbirth classes and had all my babies with no pain relief to speak of but it's a bit late for that now and there is no guarantee all will go to plan.

My daughter had a beautiful detailed birth plan for her first baby but totally misjudged the state of her labour and arrived at the hospital so late the birth plan never left the car and it certainly wasn't a calm experience! Her second baby arrived unexpectedly suddenly and it was very lucky that I didn't have to catch him at home. So if you have to have a 'controlled' delivery then planned c section seems the only way to go.

Sorry I can't be helpful but I wish you and baby all the very best 💕