Anterior lip.. Petrified of this happening again

[Librastar2828]

So labour started off slow last time and after around 38hrs of pain I was still not in active labour.. Once I hit the 4-5cm everything was pretty text book and was dilating the expected hr/cm ratio

It wasn't until I was 10cm they noticed the anterior lip. So they gave me an epidural, broke my waters and put me on a drip to increase contractions to minimise he lip. My lo was born via ventouse and episiotomy.

Recovery was awful (not that I have anything to compare to) my stitches got infected, I lost a lot of blood, felt weak and useless and very sore. My baby wouldn't take milk and ended up loosing weight and going back into hospital.

I've heard second babies are easier and quicker but I'm so scared this anterior lip will rear its ugly head again! Anyone have any experience of it re occurring with subsequent babies?

Almost had a c section last time and while part of me is wishing I could have an elective one this time round I know recovery is hard especially as ill have a toddler to chase and look after as we'll as a newborn.. Just ont want to experience the lip and/or emergency section this time

Please someone reassure me it oesnt always ha open again? Should I speak this over with my midwife?

 

[Anthrogirl]

Don't panic yet! A lot of midwives and comprehensively trained OBs actually consider an anterior lip to be a normal part of dilation. It's only recognized when it's noticed and/or causes a problem. I can't remember who wrote/published the last article I read on the anterior lip, but it talked about how contrary to the way that dilation is portrayed (as round and uniform) the cervix actually dilates in an oval shape with the various edges dilating differentially. If you have an issue (big if) it's much more important to change position than go for the epidural and push through the lip. Some midwives argue that doc or MW led pushing compounds the issue.

Do your research, part of happy, successful labor and birth is knowledge and the absence of fear. Good luck!!

 

[Nikkilewis14]

I had one will my first, baby went into distress because mu body kept pushing ugh... I tried everything to stop it...the baby was in fetal distress and had the cord wrapped around her twice, no fun, super scary... I havnt had my second but i pray it dsnt happen again!