I have been told by my ob that I have a very narrow pelvis and am at risk for CPD. I understand that there is no way other than a trial of active labor to actually determine if the baby's head will mold and fit through the pelvis, but I have the impression that my ob is trying to talk me into a scheduled c-section, and I would like to avoid a c-section if at all possible. I have a few questions:
1.) How is progress measured during labor, particularly during the pushing stage when the head is passing through the pelvis? What is a reasonable amount of time to allow to pass without noticable progress while pushing?
2.) Is a c-section that is performed after the baby's head has begun to pass through the pelvis more dangerous to either mother or child than a c-section which is performed before the head enters the pelvis?
3.) How accurate is ultrasound for measuring the size of the baby prior to delivery? Can a determination be made re. is a baby likely to be quite large vs average/small size?
4.) If a baby is thought to be 8 lbs (for example) at 38 weeks, is it common to induce labor early to increase the likelihood of a successful vaginal delivery?
5.) I am quite concerned re. my ob's viewpoint on c-section, would you recommend I seek a second opinion re. the size of my pelvis and delivery options?
Other info in case you need it: I'm 40, this is my first pg (after infertility), both my husband and I were relatively small babies (7.5 lbs).
Thanks so much for your advice!
Kathy