How many c-sections can you have and still be safe?

Question

I've had 3 c-sections since 2002 because I won't go into labor, no matter what (pitocin, manually breaking water, etc...). I'm pregnant with #4 and would never, ever consider a VBAC. How many c-sections can you have without putting yourself and baby in danger?

For those of you who know/have had multiple c-sections, how many did you have before doc said it was time to quit?

I actually heal rather quickly, and they don't bother me as much as they do other people (a friend of mine stayed in be 2 weeks afterwards). I'm up and moving the next day, in the hospital. I go get my juices, crackers, to the restroom, shower, everything. I'm sore and hunched over walking, but I walk. I had an infection a week after my last one, but that was due to the stupid nurse who took my staples out. She put the strips on to hold it shut, but didn't leave any room between them for my cut to be washed, rinsed, breathe, etc...

I'm also only 24 years old.

Answer 1

WIth a section, you keep getting pregnant, and they keep taking the baby out. Worse case scenerio you dont heal right, or get an infection, or your uterus is so scared that you can carry a baby anymore, or else they have to remove it.

But they know after you deliver how you are. SO unless they told you something else, you're fine.

Answer 2

According to statistics, the biggest concern is for you. 4 or more c-sections increases the risk of an emergency hysterectomy to stop bleeding. Placenta accretia risks also increase and that is seriously life threatening if the accretia has gone well beyond the uterus.

If you had a non-standard c-section, for instance a vertical, J or Y incision on the uterus, you also have a 3% chance of uterine rupture without labor. That's why they don't do that cut any longer unless they have to.

You are already pregnant and many women do fine with 4 c-sections. Pushing the envelope, however, you run the risk of permanent injury which could make it difficult to raise your children.

Answer 3

My mum was told that 3 was a safe number, yet after the birth of my younger brother (4 years ago) she was told that she would still be safe to have another...i think it depends on the individual, if theres any complications, age, etc
ask your doctor if you have any worries
Enjoy your pregnancy and your new baby :D

Answer 4

Elizabeth Kennedy had 11 c-sections

Answer 5

My friend delievered all 6 yes I said 6 by c-section! She was asked to quit due to blood pressure issues not because of the c-section itself.,

Answer 6

There really is no set number. It depends on how well you heal, your scar tissue and how long between them.

I would definately talk to my doctor about this.

Answer 7

some doctors wont do more than 3, ive had one so far, i know that my friend had 4. it depends on your doctor and how comfortable he feels doing repeat surgery, unless you have a medical condition, im guessing you can have as many as you want

Answer 8

typically doctors say if you have a c-section not to have more than 2 babies.