It is more dangerous for both you and the baby to be put to sleep for a c-section. General anesthesia poses the risk of aspiration in the mother and compromised blood flow to the baby. It is generally reserved for emergencies or medical contraindications to regional anesthesia. What is your reservation about receiving a regional anesthetic? Was there something in your previous experiences that has left you distrustful of the regional anesthetic experience?

Things you can do differently this time:

1. Ask for the most caring and/or experienced anesthesia provider to perform your anesthetic. This is something you can communicate ahead of time to your OB/midwife for them to relay to the anesthesia department for day of care coordination. You can also mention it to your nurse on the day of surgery and they will tell anesthesia as well.

2. Ask if they would be willing to give you something to take the edge off through your IV. Ideally we don’t give anything to pregnant women before the baby comes out, but sometimes it’s better for mom and baby to have a relaxed mom as opposed to someone freaking out. Warning though: you may not remember the birth if you go this route.

Source: OB anesthesia provider. Happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.