3rd degree tears with first time birth, how did you second or third birth go?

Have you had any issues after your tear or still have any issues? If so, I would speak to your midwife as I would assume they may suggest a C-section second time. If you haven’t had any issues I believe it is safe to have a vaginal delivery. If you are carrying a larger baby, you are more likely to have a similar experience.

Not my personal experience but my friend had to have a c section because of how badly she tore the first time, they warned her if she tore any worse she might be incontinent. She then had a massive secondary infection from the c section! So I think each case is different but you should definitely ask for medical advice 😉

I've had a 3rd degree tear with both my vaginal births. Have recovered really well from both births so I'm very glad I didn't have a cesarean. Agree with a comment above, how have you recovered from your first? If you're still having issues, it definitely could worsen them

Recovery was long but I have fully recovered. But just wondering what the chances of it happening again will be.

I think it depends mostly on your recovery. I was really pushed down the c section route (despite not wanting one) but I think that’s because I hadn’t fully recovered so they said the risk of really long term ramifications wasn’t worth it. Interestingly they said it wasn’t just about tearing but also that the baby goo no through the birth canal could cause nerve damage, but that may be specific to my case. I regret mine so I would definitely push for them to advise you as much as possible, so you don’t regret it either way.

You are at increased risk of another 3rd degree, but still less likely for it to happen than not happen. Look into ways to minimise your risk such as no intervention, perineal massage, birthing positions, ways of pushing, water birth x

I did have an assessment to check the pelvic floor muscles and they were basically back to normal. But yes, I do understand that there is always an increased risk. I wanted to know what subsequent births were like.

I had a 3rd degree tear with my first, and then a 2nd degree tear with my second baby. I had a csection booked for my second as I really was so nervous about the same or worse happening again. But I cancelled the csection the day before as I just didn’t feel right about it, and now I’m so glad I did! Recovery was honestly so different to first time- much quicker.

Good luck with your birth- whichever you choose. It’s really such a hard decision to make. ❤️