Low lying placenta - C-section vs. Natural Birth?

Question

I am a little over 37 weeks. I had my last ultrasound and my placenta hasn't moved through the pregnancy, so officially I have a low lying placenta. It is about 1.5-1.7 sm away from the os. My doc wants me to have a vaginal delivery, but everywhere I've read, it says that if the placenta is 2 or less sm away from the os, it should be a c-section. The doc says we should start with the natural birth and then, if I need it, she will do a c-section. I don't want to spend half a day trying vaginal and then end up with a c-section anyway. I really need another opinion, but there isn't much time left. Has anyone had a similar situation? Can I insist on a c-section? And if I do, would the c-section be covered by my insurance, since it's my preference, not the doctor's?

Update:

I don't mind the scar. I'm worried about the risks of having the bleeding. Also, why everywhere on the net is says it should be a C-section and my doc wants to go for a vaginal?

Celeste C · Accepted Answer

INSIST ON THE C-SECTION!!!

I had placenta previa and was my doctor did not hesitate to schedule the c-section.  Don't listen to the hype - I walked the first night after the csection and, sure, I was sore but the cesarian was no big deal. 

This is why you need a c-section:  if the placenta is in the way when you dialate, the child CAN NOT push through the placenta.. this is how women bled to death during child birth before cesarians.  

Sorry to give you the bottom line but you need a second opinion asap.  The cesarian is NO BIG DEAL and you can definitely insist on one...and it is covered by insurance.  You can call and confirm that.

The important thing is that you are comfortable and confident and that your child is safe - not that you don't hurt your doctor's feelings.

Elizabeth · Answer

As far as I know this is common when older women get pregnant and it means that you must have a C section.  I'm surprised your doctor hasn't recommended it.  Usually they can't wait to cut you open and women have the opposite problem (pushed into a c section when that isn't what they want). 

As for insurance, honestly, call them.  Every plan is different even if you share the same company with a friend they might not have the same benefits.  Whenever I call my insurance they must look up my specific plan.  Don't be shy.  Call them and find out if C sections are covered and under what circumstances they are covered.  

Good luck!

Medea G · Answer

Try for the natural because then you won't have a gigantic scar with limited feeling in that area.  Remember that gynecologists aren't plastic surgeons and they do job but nothing says that it has to be pretty.  Plus, women who have c-sections often have an overhang on their belly.  

I was in hard labor for 22 hours before they gave me a c-section and as painful as it was, I am glad they tried.

dumplingmuffin · Answer

i agree with you ,i have seen the last minute panic stations that is caused by undiagnosed low placentas,so have a section

megan m · Answer

c section are horrible, but if you feel you need one, push for one.  Doctors think they knoe everything, and sometimes they need to listen more to the patient

Natalie G · Answer

i thought ud have to have a c-section... kinda weird ask for a diffrent opinion

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Low lying placenta - C-section vs. Natural Birth?

6 Answers