VBAC Or 2Nd C-section?

www.ican-online.org
http://vbacfacts.com
http://www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10166
and watch "The Business of Being Born".

Educate yourself with the FACTS before your talk to your OB and before you make a decision about having a repeat c-section. I've had both a c-section and a VBAC and I would choose the VBAC, EVERY TIME.

I also want to add that I understand where you are coming from with being disapointed in your c-section. These feelings are fine and perfectly natural. Do not let anyone tell you that they only thing that matters is a healthy baby. A healthy mama both physical and mentaly is very important too. I sufferd from both PPD and post tramatic stress disorder thanks to my c-section and so do MANY of the woman who deliver via c-section (something you can quickly learn if you join ICAN and start attending meetings or join their on-line message board. There are thousands of women that have found their way to ICAN because of both necessary and unnecessary s-cections and the stories and support you get their are amazing).

Also, consider seeing a midwife and getting their take on VBAC and c-section instead of just an OB you make be surprised about how much more supportive they will be.

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S.,

I had a c-section with my first because he was breech. I then had a c-section with my daughter too, because our hospital doesn't allow VBAC. I have jokingly told my friends that they should have the 2nd c-section first!! It was so much better than the first one. I was up and getting around a lot faster with the second one. I did have some pain and discomfort, but it seemed minimal to the first one. I would definitely talk with your OB/GYN and see if they feel like you should have another C-section or if it is possible for the VBAC. I just wanted to let you know that the 2nd C-section was quite a bit easier. I'll be praying for you!!

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Statistically the VBAC is safer, both for you and for your baby. If you really want a VBAC, you need to find a very supportive doctor or midwife because there are A LOT of doctors who will say things like "sure, we can try" and then at 36 weeks they tell you your baby is too big (no such thing) or that they are now more worried about it. (I have a friend who went through this and switched doctors at 37 weeks! Had a 10-pounder, naturally.)
PM me if you'd like a few books to look in to. There are some great stories to read about successful VBACs as well as scientifically- and evidence-based practices.

I do want to emphasize the importance of going into a VBAC knowing it's what you really want. If you think 16 hours of labor is long, it's not, and a VBAC may not be for you. The more interventions you allow (natural or medical inductions, augmentation, pain medication) the more and more likely you become to have a c-section. You need to know what you want and be able to advocate for yourself. But, don't let people tell you that "some women just don't have a pelvis that can deliver a baby" because this applies to about 2% of the population, so it's pretty unlikely this is your problem.

Keep in mind that if you want more children, with every c-section comes more and more risk to future pregnancies and births, not just the birth you are planning at the time.

Good Luck with your decision!

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Hi there,
My first was not a planned C-section and I will agree with you that recovery time was not as fast as I would of liked it to be. My 2nd was a planned C-section and by that night I was wanting to walk around and I was feeling great. Whereas with my 1st they were telling me that I needed to stand up and I thought to myself there is no way I am going to be able to do that. I think you body does a lot better when it doesnt have to go through labor. Again look at both and make the best decision that works for you. I just know that it was a lot easier the 2nd time around. Good Luck!

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I totally understand what you are going through! I had a scheduled c-section with my first son (he's 22 months now) because they thought he was going to be too large to deliver. Once he was born he was almost 2 pounds smaller than they estimated so I could have had him naturally. So with my second son (only 2 weeks old) I decided to go for the VBAC. I have an incredible Dr who was very supportive and encouraging of the VBAC. And Akron General has an amazing staff that is very knowledgeable and trained to handle these deliveries. So here are some pro's and con's I can think of.
Con's:
~If you are looking forward to the epidural they make you wait longer to get it than if you were not having a VBAC. You can only get pitossin(sp?) in very small doses because it makes you uterus contract to strongly and quickly and the risk of rupture is greater. I had to wait almost 6 hrs into my labor before receiving the epidural because they want you to get as far along as possible on your own.
~They had me on monitors the entire time to keep watch over my contractions and the baby. So being attached to all these wires and controls I couldn't move all that far. So walking the halls and laboring in a birthing tub or shower were pretty much out.
~Labor is a lot longer and more painful process than a c-section.
Pro's
~Recovery is unbelieveably better! Within hours I was up and wandering the halls of the hospital.
~I couldn't imagine having to try to keep up with a toddler after having a c-section. The thing that kept me strong and fighting for my VBAC through my entire labor was knowing that if I had another c-section I wouldn't be able to pick up my other son for 6 weeks! And how would I explain that to him being only 22 months?

*Things to talk over with your Dr:
~Make sure to ask lots of questions. The stats are really scary! But it is getting safer and better everyday. Make sure that your dr. is really supportive of this procedure and is going to be behind you 100%.
~Ask about the hospital you plan to deliver at. Make sure that the staff is very supportive of VBAC's. I have heard that Akron General is a much better and more supportive choice than Akron City.
~Also know that this is your only chance because once you have 2 c-sections a VBAC is no longer an option.

Good luck and best wishes with your decision. I am so glad that I had a VBAC. It was a very empowering experience!!

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Hi S.. My first pregnancy went pretty much like yours, 14 hours of labor than an emergency c-section. I had tons of complications after and many visits to the ER. When I got pregnant with my daughter, I was just like you, scared and worried about labor or having another c-section. My doctor suggested another c-section and told me it would be different this time. He was right. My second one was honestly, a piece of cake (as far as a surgery goes). I was up walking the same day, no infections, no ER trips. I couldn't believe it. I healed much faster as well.

Hope this helps :)

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I had an emergency unplanned C-section with my first and researched and planned to have a VBAC with my second. However, things did not go as planned and I ended up with a second emergency C-secion. If I were to have another child (not planning to, but stranger things have happened) I would schedule my C-section. I was VERY disappointed not to have been able to have a VBAC but I will say this: recovery was much easier the second time around, proably because my body already knew what to expect in terms of pain. I'm not sure that there is a universal right or wrong answer -it is more of a personal choice between you, your spouse, and your doctor. Good luck!

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I to had to have an unplanned c-sec after long labor (30 hrs) and just opted for the c-sec the 2nd time. I did not want to go through that again. I was nervous about the epidurial but my dr was awesome and talked and held my hands the whole time. I felt like I was going for a spa appt. for the 2nd one. Really I know that sounds crazy but really I went to the hosp the day of my c-section and told them my name, headed to the pre-surgery room, read a magazine until the time of my surgery. With the 2nd I felt so much better after. The pain was not as severe. It was easier to get up. And it felt like the healing was faster. Best of luck in your decision and congratulations.

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Hi S.,
My opinion is that VBAC vs 2cnd C-section is completely a personal choice to make and can only be made by you. Its all about what your end goal is and what you are willing to risk and what you are comfortable with. I am getting ready to deliver number 4 via C-section ( this will be my 4th section).
I talked with my Dr about a VBAC with number 2 and at that time he left the option up to me, but there were many stipulations with it like they would not induce me and if I baby got to big they would have to do a C-section anyway... so on and so forth. I personally felt like I didnt want to risk the VBAC because my first was 9lbs 1oz, and I knew I couldnt deliver that big of a baby (hence my first c-section). I will also tell you that I have a friend who has 4 and had to have a c-section with number 4. She would like to have another baby and spoke to her Dr about a VBAC and he said out of the question... he told her that insurance companies are now only paying the Dr's to deliver a VBAC is they are present for the entire labor and since Dr's are not willing to do that most will not do a VBAC at all. She is having a hard time finding one that will even consider. She has even talked to one that was recommended on this site for VBACS that now says no... so I would be curious to know if you are able to find a Dr that will do one... let us know... I know my friend would be interested. Good Luck!

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With my first child I had planned a natural birth and found out when I was 38 weeks that I was placenta previa. I had a section the next day. I wanted to have a VBAC with my second child, and I did. His delivery was a beautiful vaginal birth. After the head and shoulders were delivered I reached down and pulled him out of my body. It was incredible. However, there were complications in the afterbirth due to a placenta percreta. (The placenta was implanted in and through the scar tissue of the wound from the previous cesarean.) I lost over 3 liters of blood and very nearly died. My doctor was able to stop the bleeding with an arterial balloon and save my life with an emergency hysterectomy. In retrospect, my doctor said she would always do a late sonogram from now on with VBACs. Had we known I had a percreta, I would have had a c-section and simultaneous hysterectomy. However, as crazy as this sounds, I am glad that we didn't know. Of course I would have rather avoided the major hemorrhage and near-death experience, but I am glad to have had the experience of a vaginal delivery. And if I had a section without knowledge of the percreta, it would have put my baby at risk. As it was, my baby was safe and sound when the bleeding started. Maybe I'm crazy, but I am very thankful for the experience. Mostly, I'm thankful for my baby and my life! Anyway, the VBAC/repeat cesarean decision is a very personal one. Basically you have to decide for yourself. Whatever you decide, I wish you a safe, happy birth experience!

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Hi S.,
I am currently going back and forth with the same question. I too plannned on a vaginal birth with my first born but ended up have an emergency c-section due to my son's heart rate dropping too low for too long, also he was face up and huge. I am due in Jan. I did discuss my options with my doctor which I advise first because they know you and your history. I did and continue to do all kinds of research but I keeping going back to what my doctor told me. She said she would support what ever decision I make, but that she would not supply pain medicine (so that if there was to be an uterine rupture I would be able to let the staff know ASAP due to pain and that would help save mine and my baby's life) Another thing she told me was that my history of pregnancy/labor would ultimatley most likely end up in another c-section due to the size of children I tend to grow haha and my small frame. There are other things we (personal) discussed and I think I am 99% sure I am doing the c-section. I am worried about the recovery but not about my health or safety in the hands of my doctor. Good luck!!

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Hi S., my name is also S.. I am also a labor and delivery nurse. When you labored with your first baby you said you had an emergency c/s. What was the emergency for? Was the baby in distress? If that is the case, and there wasn't a problem with your labor pattern then I would say go ahead and try for the VBAC. However, if your c/s was because you just wouldn't dilate or the baby was not descending into the pelvis then I would say there is a pretty good chance that that will happen again the second time around and the c/s would probably be the easiest on you and baby. Some women just don't have the pelvis to fit a baby through, unfortunately. Hope this helps you. If you have any other questions let me know. =)

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Hi, S.. I have been there. My personal feeling is that vbac is the right choice. I like to do everything natural, that is what I had planned with my first, almost 13 yrs ago. I also ended up with an "emergency csection". The official reason was failure to progress. Translation, impatient Dr. I knew nothing the first time around. It was one of the worst experiences of my life. I did take a prenatal class, but I persisted in the belief that I would just go to the hospital pop the baby out and go home. Ha, the first thing you need to do is educate yourself. Do the research, read the books, don't assume Dr.s are always right. I read A Good Birth a Safe Birth. It's been to long to remember the author. It really helped me. When I found out I was pregnant with my 2nd child, I freaked. I knew I would not go back to the hospital. I felt betrayed. Luckily, I had become friends with the prenatal instructor, she told me that homebirth would be an option. She introduced me to her midwife. She became my midwife, she spent hours talking to us, helping me work through the bad feelings from my csection. She helped to restore the belief that my body knew how to birth this baby. She also taught me about the Brewer Diet, it is vital for a good healthy pregnancy. I'll make a very long story short, I went on to have a beautiful homebirth with my 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th. Guess I got hooked! There is no comparison to healing after a natural birth. Other than being tired, its a breeze. Good luck to you. I know I have strong feelings due to my personal experiences, like I said, do the research. In our country the csection rate in nearly 50%. So unnecessary. Male Dr.s want to rescue us. Hospitals are set up for emergencies, and every intervention you allow to be done, gets you that much closer to an unnecessary csection. I'll step off the box..........no matter what, have a happy birth.

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Hi S.,
I had two c-sections. I labored with my first and ended up with a c-section after two hours of pushing and the baby not coming out. I was planning a vbac with my second, but ended up with another c-section and my recovery was so much easier with him than with my first. I think alot had to do with not actually going through labor like I did with my first. And I also knew what to expect the second time around. Good luck with whatever decision you make and I hope everything goes smoothly.

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I know plenty of vbacs that have gone great, but wanted to share my story as you wished for all sides. My first child was a planned c-section. My second pregnancy was a surprise and came very soon after. They are 13 months apart. I really wanted a vbac but we were in a small town and they just didn't do them there. My big city doc (who delivered my first before we moved) said do the c-section rather than travel. Well, when the small city doc opened me up on c-section 2, my uterus had ruptured. The only thing still intact was the amniotic sac. If I had gone into labor the baby would have died, and possibly so could I. So I say all this to consider both sides, and risks. I think my situation occurred since the babies were so close together I hadn't healed completely before conceiving again.

Dear S. D
I had an emergency C-section after 26 hours of labor and my recovery time seemed long also. When I became pregnant the second time, my Dr suggested a VBAC also even though I have a very small build. However, I had gestational diabetes and I had to schedule a C-section because they said my baby was 9 1/2 lb and I had 3 weeks to go! My water broke before the scheduled C-section and I went into labor only for a shot time. My recovery time was shorter and much less painful. I think it was because it was NOT an emergency c-section. I would not fear the unknown. Pray and ask God what direction to take so you can have a peace about what to do. God bless you! L. J

I had a scheduled c-section (baby was breach and could not be turned). I then scheduled a c-section with my 2nd, but water broke 3 weeks early, so went ahead and gave VBAC a go. It worked out fine, much easier recovery and then the 3rd was VBAC too, and natural (not my first pick). I think you do what you, your husband and Dr. thinks is best. I am sure it is very traumatizing laboring for so long and then have to have a c-section. I would explore, why you were unable to deliver, was it hips to narrow, not able to dialate etc, and then discuss what are the chances of this happening again, or was it just a fluke (that of course can happen again) or just something that most likely will happen again? In the end I say you get a healthy baby and it does not matter how it came out. I am happy I got to do both, but would have been fine with 3 c-sections too. You have to go with your gut and go with it. What will be will be, as they say. Good luck to you.

I am a mother of three. My first pregnancy and delivery went wonderfully, I ended up with a vaginal delivery with no problems. Well two years later I had to have an emergency C-section (after laboring all day). It turned out well, but would rather have not done both. Then with my third child my doctor told me that I had a good chance of having a vaginal delivery. Well I know the recovery with the vaginal delivery was much easier and I opted for that. Needless to say I went into labor and progressed good until 7cm and then had to have an emergency C-section again. I will say that the recovery with the third delivery went easier. I don't plan on having any more kids, but if I did I would have a C-section.
Hope this helps,
L.

Hi S.,
Well you have lots of responses here but I figure the more input the better. I had an unplanned c-section also with my first, I had wanted to go natural so this was also quite a shock to me. My son was not in distress, we were just sort of stuck, I had all back labor and finally gave in to the edidural hoping it would help, they did end up slowing the epidural down and giving me drugs to move things a little faster after this because labor had slowed down. I was fully dilated but never got the need to push. They stopped the epidural and we waited and eventually tried pushing anyway for over two hours in different positions. He would move forward with every push but then go back. Found out after the fact he us in posterior position or face up, this may have been the problem. Drs basically gave me option go c-section or keep trying. I was exhausted and didn't know what else to do. So c-section we went. Other than the first week my recovery from C was not that bad. When my second came along my OB gave me the choice. I did ask her what she thought the chance was my second would also be posterior but my husband and I decided to do scheduled C. I figured my chances of another C were 50/50 but in my mind the chances of something bad happening with the vbac or an "emergency c" like last time outweighed the risks of a scheduled c section. I had a really hard time with this because I did not like the picking his birthday and just checking in thing, well it turned out I went into labor at 3 am the day I was scheduled to go in anyway. No worries this time, easier recovery because my muscles hadn't been through the labor first. (by the way my youngest was also posterior) My oldest was 19 months when we brought our second home and I just was careful to have him come up to me on the couch or lean down to him when holding him for the first two weeks and then I could pick him up fine, I didn't over do like carry him up the stairs or anything but we did fine. Good Luck with your decision hopefully all of our input helps.

3 sections by 43 and all went fine. Nervous the first time because we found out the baby was breech in the 39 week...have all the options of pulling feet first...NO.....trying to turn....NO...and finally the C. Yes it is nerve racking but it is planned there is no labor and within 1 hour you have a beautiful child on a planned date for you and your husband to enjoy. You have the option with insurance to take 4 days to recover in the hospital....I figured that out after the 3rd....take the days to recover...brkft, lunch and dinner served to you with the nurse and meds right near by. Do yourself a favor and don't fret over this...just take the plunge...make the decision for the 2nd C and move forward. It is only nerve racking because you know what is going to happen again....think to yourself the pain of labor...which I did not know but seen on many a girlfriends face or choose to get it done quick and start recovering and enjoying the new family. Good luck to you on your decision.................I have 3 and was most nervous about the last but it will pass so fast you will forget what you worried about in less than an hour...

I also was in labor for 17 hours prior to an emergency c-section. I wasn't dilating and the baby eventually was in distress. My baby ended up being 10 1/2 lbs. I am due for an c-section with baby #2 in less then 2 weeks now. I understand your nevervousness. I had an ultra sound last week to help determine how big this baby is. My doctor and I have talked about the situation many times and I chose to schedule a c-section b/c I didn't want to go through all the trauma of the first delivery, especially not knowing how big this baby was going to be. After the ultrasound my doctor agreed with the c-section. She's worried that having another rough delivery and or big baby could tear my existing incision, resulting in another emergency c-section. I have read a lot about it and everyone seems to agree that recovery is much quicker the second time around.

A helpful resource for you might be the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN). There are meetings you can attend and a great website- www.ican-online.org .

Good luck with your decision.

I had 2 C-sections and then a vaginal birth. It was not too bad. It is worth a try. THe recovery is sooo much quicker! I felt normal when I went home with my baby, not like I just had surgery. If it doesn't work, the worst that will happen is you'll have another C-section.

ICAN has a lot of good research on the risks and benefits of VBAC vs Cesarean birth. The risks to a complication with a VBAC are extremely minimal. The risks to a repeat Cesarean birth are greater as it is a major surgery.

If you decide on a vaginal birth, how do you plan to manage pain? I believe that some of the risks of complications with a VBAC are due to the use of medications in labor. The risk of uterine rupture and such are the same, but the risk of complications of that increase because the first sign of a problem would be the fetal monitors because the mother doesn't feel everything that is going on (with an epidural and such).

I would really encourage you to talk to people who have chosen a VBAC and perhaps find out from your doctor right away if this is an option for you. Some doctors/hospitals will not allow it at all. Find a good doctor who will not only perform a VBAC, but will also honestly discuss your options.

I would also encourage you to consider finding a doula. I had one for the births of both of my children and plan to hire her (same woman for both births) for all my future births as well. Doulas are a wealth of information and resources. They can also help you to come up with different approaches to different things such as stalled labor, a poorly positioned baby, relaxation and so on. www.dona.org, www.christianchildbirth.org, www.cappa.net are a few good websites to locate a doula. And, many are more than willing to volunteer services. I would if I lived closer to you. :)

The last thing I want to remind you of is that this is a different pregnancy and baby. Your birth experience will be different from your first even if you do end up with a repeat Cesarean birth. So, don't let your fears get in the way of having the experience you desire. I encourage you to try and try again until you get exactly what you want, lol. I was totally afraid of things going the same way with my son as with my daughter, but I worked through my fears and had an experience I don't even think I could explain.

God bless,
A.

There are many things to consider in this decision. One of the most important factors is the reason for you initial C-section. I had a C-section with my first pregnancy due to fetal distress at hour 36. She was a healthy 8 lb 7 oz baby. I elected on a VBAC for my second pregnancy. I stayed as active as possible and did water aerobics. I only gained 30 pounds during the pregnancy. My big baby boy was born vaginally after I was induced at week 41+. He was a healthy 9 lbs 11 oz. I was so happy for my decision and experienced an indescribable joy when he was born. It was the right choice for me. Make the right choice for you, which ever route that may be.

I had 3 planned c-sections (first 2 babies were breech)in just over 5 years (& I was 38 years old for my 3rd) - I had fabulous experiences with all 3 (they did get a little harder each time, but overall, I'm a big fan of c-sections). I think the only people who have had bad experiences with c-sections are those that labor beforehand. If you're in good shape before & during your pregnancies, and have a good ob/gyn, you're recovery should be quick and easy. I was walking around the next morning (although slowly) with all my c-sections and with the first one, I was off pain meds (except for ibuprofen)within 48 hours.

As for carrying your children, you're still able to hug them and kiss them. I showed my children my scar to explain to them why I couldn't carry them....and I'm 100% sure they don't remember the short 6 weeks they weren't actually carried around.

However, if you REALLY want a VBAC, I would consult with your dr - if he/she suggests trying, go for it, otherwise listen to them.

More than anything - go with your instincts. My favorite ob/gyn said she's never seen a patient of hers go with her instincts and be wrong.

Good luck!

Dear S.,
I know just what you're saying. I went through the same thing 16 years ago today exactly. I too was so disheartened and scared not to have had a vaginal birth the 1st time due to er complications. So with much consideration my husband and I did not want any surprise complications and we decided to go with a planned C-Section...Everything turned out beautifully, including our 2nd baby boy. I liked the fact of no surprises...all went smoothly so that we could enjoy the process more. We got to pick the dr. and the baby's birthday within reason. In the end we were very relieved to have taken that route because our son did have the cord wrapped around his neck.
I wish you many blessings in whatever you decide.
M. V.
Melaleuca-The Wellness Company
Enhancing The Lives Of Those We Love, Through Eco-Friendly Products. Check us out at www.melaleuca.com

I was going for VBAC with 2nd, she turned out breach and had to do c section anyway. The second was planned for though only 2 days prior, the first was emergency after 27 hours of labor. The first was very difficult to recover, but 2nd was a breeze. Your body doesn't go through all the trama like your first. My 2nd doctor was a surgeon, was prepared in case it needed c section. My case has LOTS of differences between two times. So talk to doc and things will work out! 2nd one I was up and moving in no time and didn't have all prob like with first.

Please read http://www.ican-online.org/vbac/home and www.vbac.com. I had one vaginal then three c-section. I wish I would of not. This is your decision but should know all the risk, like having a c-section but you baby more risk for nicu. Not all doctors in the US do. If you need any more info please email me at ____@____.com you live in the area the movie Business of being born is a great movie, I have if you would like to borrow it.
Good Luck
jo

Hey, I am in the same boat as you right now, with a c-section looming in my future. I also labored and pushed for 3 hrs with no progress so ended up with c-section with baby #1. The recovery stunk, but I'm told a sleepless night leading into induction, labor and pushing set me up for exhaustion and harder recovery--hopefully that's the case b/c they say I have a narrow pelvis and not good candidate for VBAC. My Dr. and I talked about the chance of uterine rupture with VBAC which is the worstcase outcome for all, and that convinced me to schedule a c-section for #2, this time I'm very prepared to do what it takes to manage my pain well so I can function when I get home from the hospital. You might consider asking for a trial of labor...if you go into labor spontaneously see how it goes and if the time comes that you need to augment contractions with pitocin (which can increase the chances of uterine rupture) then get your c-section. Good luck in making your decision!

I have had 2 c-sections. My first c-section was an emergency and was very slow to recover and very traumatizing! BUT my 2nd and PLANNED c-section went very smooth and I felt fine the next day (a lil itchy from the meds) but I was even able to walk down a floor and visit w/ co-workers ( I worked in labor & delivery). I had w/ my 1st pregnancy a 8lb 3oz baby, which they said wasn't going to fit coming out... and my 2nd baby ended up being 9lbs 13oz... I am SOOOO glad I chose the c-section from the start, Many of the obgyn doctors where I work refuse to do vbacs b/c of the great risk involved. Honestly after seeing my sister deliver vaginally a couple times that seriously looks more horrific to me than my c-section. It is a personal choice and many people feel different about it. I just wanted you to know that a planned c-section is NOTHING like an emergency c-section. Just rememeber if you start out the route of vbac there is always still a chance for an emergency c-section if there are complications... but again a planned c-section is MUCH MUCH smoother and who wants to go thru labor

I think that a vbac after c-section is a good idea if it is possible. I had my 1st son vaginally, but my other 2 were c-sections. The problem was that my pelvic bone is too small. I had a terrible time delivering my oldest. My second wouldn't drop at all for me to even try a vaginal delivery. When my third rolled around I just went ahead and planned for the c-section. There are risks either way you go about it, but I think you should try the vbac. I know a few people who did that and everything turned out just fine. Ob/gyn's aren't always big on doing vbacs after c-sections either. It is definitely something that you need to discuss with your doctor. The second time around you may not have the problem(s)that you did with your first delivery which will make the vbac possible. Good luck and I wish you the best.
D.

I am 31 and have been married for almost 12 yrs. My husband and I have 3 boys ages 10,7, and 4.

I don't have direct experience with either, but either way, I would highly recommend working with a doula. Amy Chavez is a local doula (Dayton area) who is really knowledgeable and wonderful, and would have a bunch of good resources to offer during your pregnancy (including massage and dealing with trauma issues before the birth) Also, if you are looking for an OB, Dr. Stephen Guy is wonderful, and much more supportive of natural childbirth than most other doctors in the area. (I had a breech baby I delivered naturally with Dr. Guy. Considering it was my first baby, with any other doctor I would have had a C-section.)

Another resource is the Farm, where Ina May Gaskin is. They are very committed to VBAC, so if you want to travel, you might want to look into it. If I had had a C-section, and were pregnant again, I would plan to go to the Farm for a VBAC.

Good luck, and take care!

I can't really add a lot to what previous posters have said, other than yes, please consider working with a doula, you can find one in your area by looking on the DONA website and look under your zip code. The ICAN website is also very good, as is childbirth.org. According the evidence based studies, VBAC is most definitely safer for mom & baby, but it certainly warrents being attentive to your body and any symptoms of problems. Let me know if I can assist you in finding a doula close to you, or answer any other questions.
D. Easthon CD(DONA), LCCE, ELCS, CHBE,
Waterbirth Credentialed
Community Outreach Director, Dayton Area Labor Support
www.heart2heartbirthmatters.com

My first was a planned c-section. Partly because my OB/GYN was getting married and going out of town 2 weeks prior to my due-date. I didn't fight it because to tell the truth - the idea of labor scared me A LOT. BUT recovery was a lot more difficult than I expected. Just a bit painful - couldn't go up and down the stairs - stuff like that. Plus, I kept trying to do too much.

With my second, I was hoping for VBAC. My dr. has experience with that, but suggested a c-section would likely be better. He knows I'm not a real big fan of pain, and with having been my dr. for so long and knowing my medical stuff - I decided to go ahead with the c-section.

The 2nd section went sooooo much better than the first. I don't know if it was better drugs (I think one of them was todorall?) or if they got the spinal block in a better place or what. But for the first day or two, I hardly felt anything. Once I got home, it was even better with the second. Again, I don't know if I just knew better than with the first one to do less or what.

FOr whatever it's worth...

My son was also an emergency section. I pushed for 2 hours and had a terrible recovery. I am trying to get pregnant again, and plan to have a scheduled section. My doctor said she can't promise me a vaginal birth due to all the complications with baby #1. I think the recovery will be easier, emotionally and physcially, with a planned section.

Best wishes,
C.

your concerns are all very valid. My suggestion is this- try for a VBAC, knowing that there is a LARGE chance youwill be getting a C-section. That way, youare open and prepared for both.

Let me just say right off that I've never had a c-section or a VBAC, but I know my midwife has lots of experience with VBACS. So if you're interested in talking to someone with a different, non-hospital perspective on it, I'd be happy to hook you up with her.

From what I understand, VBACS carry some risk, but not nearly as much as a c-section, which is major abdominal surgery. But doctors are heavily and precariously insured by companies that don't like risk, so there is a great deal of pressure to avoid the risk and go with what the doctor is good at, which is surgery.

I wish you all the luck in the world!

Hi, S..
I had an emergency c-section with number one, too. I just had my second, by planned c-section, in June. For me the recovery was about the same the second time as the first. It might be because I did go into serious labor (contractions 1.5 minutes apart and intense) the morning of the scheduled surgery. They moved it up. I came home from the hospital in two days and was doing okay by that point. The nurse said I had a high pain tolerance, but I don't know if they just say that! Anyhoo, for me recovery was about the same (except that having a toddler kept me from getting as much rest). My doctor was against a VBAC. She said she could refer me to another doc if I wanted to go that route. Definitely something you should check on early!
Best of luck!

The biggest risk with a VBAC stems from all of the inducing and augmenting labor. When you induce labor of a prior c-section mother, you put her at increased risk of uterine rupture. If she goes into labor and delivers on her own, her odds are greatly decreased.

In other words, it's usually medical procedures and doctors that cause uterine rupture.

I've had both and I wouldn't have another C-section short of an absolute, honest-to-God emergency.

I recently read Pushed by Jennifer Block. It is likely to bring an emotional response from women who have had a less than desirable birth experience, especially unplanned C-section. The book in general is about medical management of birth and is, I think, a little biased but has a lot of researched information about VBACs and other related birth issues.
It's definitely interesting, but be warned that it could churn your emotions because of your experience. Good luck. I hope you get the birth experience you want!

Hi S.!

I also had a emergency c-section w/ baby #1 (Emily) after 36 hours (cord was around her neck) and when we got pregnant with Haley, we planned another c-section. My Dr. was great and gave me the option to do either as well as the risks and left it up to me. In the end, my husband & I decided it was not worth all of the stress of wondering if I would rupture and then need a c-section anyway. Both of my girls were born very healthy and happy and it was the best decision I made.

We scheduled the birth, so we knew exactly when to go to the hospital. There was no stress, just comfort knowing I would be a Mommy again in a few hours. It was much like checking into a hotel! :o)

The BEST part about it was the recovery time; it was so much faster & easier! With my first C, I was in soooo much pain and couldn't even move w/o trouble; let a lone get out of bed. With my 2nd C, I was walking the halls within 12 hours of delivering and even left the hospital ahead of schedule. At the end of the first week at home I was doing all of my normal household chores and caring for 2 little ones (Emily was only 2 when Haley was born).

Ultimately, you need to make the choice that is best for you, but I highly recommend another C. You already have enough on your mind with baby #2 on the way and caring for a toddler..why add extra stress to that wondering if you will have complications with a VBAC?! ;o) GOOD LUCK and feel free to e-mail me privately if you have any additional questions.

~R. :o)

You should probably discuss it with your OB now. There are a lot of OB's that downright refuse to do VBAC's because of the risks involved. So if you decide you DO want to try VBAC, you need to have a dr. who is on the same page as you. Personally, I'd opt for the 2nd c-section. Healing is a lot faster and easier the second time around, from everyone I know that's had multiple c-sections. My first was a vaginal birth, my second was an emergency c-section. Should there be a 3rd baby, I'll just have a repeat c-section. Not worth risking your life, baby's life, or your uterus. Which ever you decide, good luck with the rest of the pregnancy and birth! Blessings! :-)

I had an unplanned c-section with my first after my son got stuck and was in distress. The doctor said that my pelvis really wasn't accommodating enough to handle the size of my son, which was only 8 lbs. 11 oz. My second c-section was planned and was a ton easier. I felt 10 times better even right after the delivery than I did the first time. Surgery after labor is so much harder than just surgery! That was just my experience.

While I never had a c-section my sister had 2. The first was the worse. The baby was fully in the birth cancal but refused to come out so they the drs chose a c-section. They said it was like she had twins. She was in pain for weeks and could barley hold the baby. But with number 2 she said she felt great no pain after at all. She said she even felt she could do cartwheels.

I also had an unplanned C-section my first pregnancy after laboring for several hours. I was hoping to have a VBAC with my second child, but realized the odds were not in my favor. We scheduled a C-section with the understanding that I would be allowed to try to deliver if I went into labor prior to that date. I ended up with the planned C-section after all. I can say that the recovery seemed much easier, perhaps because I didn't have the trauma and exhaustion of having labored for several hours. That said...I didn't think my first C-section was too bad and the recovery didn't really bother me much. Good luck with your decision and remember...no matter what you decide, the end result is a beautiful baby!

I was 16 years old when I had my first baby. After hours of labor, and because he was breach, they took him c-section. 14 years later I had my second baby. I was 30 years old and much stronger (physically and emotionally), so I wanted to try VBAC. It was very successful, and turned out much better for the baby and for me. I think I was much more able to care for my second one because I was more alert and in much less pain. I didn't even need an episiotomy. After that, I went on to have 2 more vaginal births, the last one after a cystocele (which is recommended even less than a VBAC). I hope you find the decision that is best for you. Good luck!

You ned to be talking to your OB/midwife NOW!!! Not all doctors will do VBAC, and even the ones who will need to have a very thorough understanding of what brought you to the c-section in the first place.

I had a very successful VBAC after emerg c-sect with 12 hours labor. (Sounds similar to yours.) I was fortunate to have found a midwife her is Ohio who was completely on board. The vaginal birth was harder (no meds), but the recvery was incredible compared to c-sect.

Good luck with your decision!

Hi S.,
I had a c-section for my 1st daughter (I had toximia, they tried to enduce & after 2 days of labor, a c-section was decided). When I was pregnant with my 2nd, one of the first questions I asked is about VBAC, he said it was fine. I was excited b/c I wanted to try a vaginal birth. Unfortunately I had more complications (not during labor) & a c-section was scheduled. I can tell you that recovery time was much better after the second c-section.
Good luck!
H.

hi S. D,
i am a labor and delivery nurse. my unit is a level 3. we get the high risk pts (mom and or baby).
first, MAKE EACH PREGNANCY~LABOR~DELIVERY ITS OWN. your body and life are in a different place. this pregnancy/baby is unique. no one with a choice would choose to be in an emergency situation, ever, but they do happen. now that i have told you what you already know, let me tell you the power you have as a woman. listen to your body/heart. gather information and decide. if in your heart of hearts you want to go VBAC (vaginal birth after c/section) then do it. yes, there is always a chance it will happen again, but there is ALWAYS a chance it will not. either you choose the c/section and you will never know or you choose VBAC and have a possibility of vaginal delivery. the more c/sections you have the more scarring, the more risk. if you are ever going to try VBAC, this pregnancy would be the best time to try.
sorry this is so brief, but that is the main point. J. oh and congrats ~grin~

Hi S.!
I had a similar experience with my first child and have now had to VERY successful VBAC's with my 2nd and 3rd children. I highly suggest them. However, the one thing I will say is that the support of your husband and your doctor is very important. Find a doctor who feels comfortable with them and stick with them. The recovery time was so much shorter for the second two than with my c-section.

Ultimately it is what feels right to you. Decide what you want to do and go for it. What is right for me isn't necessarily right for you and vice versa. If you have any questions though about VBAC in general I would be happy to answer any specifics. (I'm not shy. *grin*) Plus my husband is studying to be an OB and is totally for the VBAC thing so we have lots of people ask us questions about them. Good luck!

M.

Hi S.. I too was in labor with my first child but my dr had told me I would most likely have to have a c section because of my size. I was in labor for 19 hours but it was back labor and the contractions were not showing up on the monitors. I then decided with my second one that I wanted another c section. I had no desire to go thru all the labor and vaginal delivery stuff. I had a c section with my daughter and everything went great. They say there are a lot of risks with a vbac one being that you could end up with bladder problems later in life. There are risks with going both ways, good luck on your decision and congrats on your baby.

S.

Hi S.! I know you have had a ton of responses. Just wanted you to know my experience. My first was a scheduled c-section after we tried version to turn my son who was in the franks breech position. Hated my c-section and recovery! The 2nd baby, my dr. actually recommended VBAC and I tried it. It was the most AMAZING experience! I have had a total of 3 VBACs with only one minor complication. The last one was just about 7 weeks ago and when the baby was 3 weeks old, my scar tissue (under the skin where the incision was) seperated. This is slightly uncomfortable, but not bad. My OB said it could take a few months to heal. We think this had something to do with the fact that I get keloids (extra scar tissue) and scar tissue does not stretch like skin will. I would absolutely recommend VBAC to anyone and everyone. BTW, my dr. here recommended the first VBAC and then I moved to Atlanta,GA and the dr. there (a woman) recommended it not only from a dr.'s standpoint, but as a patient who did it herself! Hope that helps! Good luck, whatever you decide.

Congrats on your pregnancy! I had a C-section because my angel was breech. Honestly, I thought it was great! It was planned, I got to spend an extra day in the hospital, and I got 2 more weeks off of work! LOL! I will admit I was disappointed at first because I'll always wonder when his birthday would have been since they scheduled it a week before his due date. I have heard about the risks of VBAC, but also check with your doctor because I know my doc and I think all the docs in our county will NOT do VBAC due to the insurance risk to them. Good luck!!