Vaginal or Csection

Hay T.
I have a 8 year old son and 3months ago I gave birth to my youngist son. Both of mine were by C-section. the first one was not by choice I was the same as you and When I found out that I was haveing this last one I said I was having a Vaginal brith only.At the time I was living in Frederick Md and there they do not do V-backs that is what it is called if you have a Vaginal birth after a c-section (somthing new I found out). So that made me want it even more I wanted the chance to make my own choice about my delivery. So when I moved back to Pasadena I changed Dr. and started to ask a lot of questions as to why I should have a c-section. My best frenid is a labor and delivery nurse and she told my that the only risk is that your utrus could burst in a V-back delivery it is a big thing but it dose depend on why you had the c-section in the frist place for me I would not dilated past 3 and then my son fliped over and they lost his heart rate. I thought about it for a few weeks my husband and I decied on a c-section and then we could plan the rest of the summer around that date.Kids never do as they are told so he did come 4 weeks early but that was ok i guess. I thought that the second time around was so much better because I know what to expect.and something have changes in the past 8 years but if you are a return c-section you do not have to stay in the hospital as long this time as long as you get up and walk early I had him at noon on Friday and was home by noon on sunday. I also brestfeed my son and there are great new things out now that help you hold them so they won't sit on your incision and I have never heard of a incision opening in a v-back birth. By the way if you have to do a amnio test to have a c-section (the long needle in the belly ) it really was not bad at all I would do it again if I had the chance.

Good luck do what is right for you.

pelvis' are not usually too small to deliver a baby. What a myth. Unless you have say 10 lb babies I think doctors become impatient and want to take the easy way out for them. If you want a vbac you should see a doctor who supports them. call around and ask the nurse who answers if the doctor supports vbac and if not don't see them. I had midwives for my second delivery and I was scared my episiotomy would rip again but I had a perfect delivery and I had almost no tearing. Only 4 stiches!!! I would reccomend A midwife if you want to deliver vaginally. Also they will only take you if they feel you are healthy and low risk so that may ease your mind a bit.

good luck.
cia
p.s. why do you have to decide how you want to give birth by 20 weeks? Run from this doctor!!!

Hi T... My name is beckie.. I have had a c section and my daughter was vaginal.. I had a c section with my son because he had some health problems.. When the doctor told me i could have vaginal I was excited.. Natural birth YAY... He did tell me all the risks which I was willing to take.. (No matter what u do there are very dangerous risks for you and baby...) I made the decision for VBAC and had a beautiful little girl.. It was an experience I am glad I went through... If you dont like what the doctors are telling you or feel there is dishonesty get a second opinion. I know some places dont offer VBAC because there is a 1 in every 250 chance for rupture but after 10 years your fairly well healed.. I would get another opinion which they will suggest csection but offer both.. Do what is in your heart. I did and it is a memory I will never lose... Good luck with everything and please keep us updated. Congrats and good luck..

Dear T.:
Hey there! Well, I think that you just really need to weigh out the pros and cons of what the doctor is telling you to do/don't do. I will tell you though that I took a Childbirth class and in it they mentioned how a lot of doctor's these days opt for c-sections due to malpractice suits against them. Basically, they take the easy road out. When I was in labor I only wanted a natural birth (they told us in class to be ready for changes to your birth plan), my water had broke at 10:45pm and I had to be put on Pitocin to induce contractions, once those got going, I wasn't dialating at a good enough rate. The doctor kept coming in to check and I was dialating but not fast enough. After 19 hours of labor, I had only dialated 2 cm. The doctor said he'd give it one more hour and if I hadn't dialated any more then I'd have to do a c-section. In that hour I told my boyfriend that if he came back and I had dialated more, I'd still want to hold out longer and see what happens. The doctor came back in and I hadn't dialated anymore. I asked him about waiting and he said the baby had been out of "water" for too long and we needed to do a c-section. There went my birth plan. In the end, my daughter was born healthy (a month early) and perfect. :-) I felt a bit inadequate that I couldn't do a natural birth but it turned out that my daughter's head was facing up instead of down and she basically got stuck.

As far as your other incision tearing, they say it depends on the direction the incision was made. These days they do a bikini cut horizontally on your lower abdomen (in the past it was vertical which WAS prone to tearing) which allows for a possible VBAC (Vaginal Birth After C-Section). I wouldn't worry about that 1% chance of your incision tearing...don't let that scare you.

I would tell them that you want a natural birth. You really can't weigh your decision on ONE experience (since you've only had one child) and what the doctor's tell you. You are correct, if you have a natural birth, your body will do all the necessary things and take precautions in order to take care of your child once he/she is born.

I hope this helps you out a bit. Take Care of yourself and GOOD LUCK!

E.

T.,
A lot of doctors prefer to do c-sections after one has already been done simply because of liability issues. If you want to go vaginal that is your RIGHT! You can always change your mind while in labor and go with a c-section. You cannot however change your mind mid c-section and go vaginal. The chances of complications from your previous incision are slim. Especially since you're body has had 10 years to heal. If the doctor is telling you that your body won't handle a vaginal birth I would get a second opinion. I've always felt that a vaginal birth is least traumatic for both mom and baby.

I'm sure whatever you decide will be the best for you and your baby!! Good luck and let us know how things turn out!
T.

HI T. , I THINK YOU SHOULD DO WHATS IN YOUR HEART AND WHATS BEST FOR YOU AND THE BABY! WHEN I HAD MY DAUGHTER KAMRYN.. I DIDNT GO INTO LABOR AT ALL..HER LIL HEART RATE WAS DROPPING SO I HAD A EMERGENCY C-SECTION. SHE WAS 2LBS.15.7 OZ WHEN SHE WAS BORN .. SHE WAS PREMATURE.. SO WHEN I GOT PREGNANT WITH MY SON I WAS SO SCARED SOMETHING WOULD GO WRONG WITH THAT PREGNANCY TOO. BUT IT DIDNT. I CHOSE TO HAVE ANOTHER C-SECTION BECAUSE I WANTED MY TUBES TIED AND WANTED IT DONE ALL AT THE SAME TIME.. MY DOCTOR AND MY MOM ARGUED WITH ME FOR 2.5 HOURS ABOUT MY DECISION WHILE I WAS IN LABOR.. I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THE SCAR COMING OPEN WHEN YOUR IN LABOR. MY DOCTOR WANTED ME TO HAVE MY SON NATURAL AND SO DID MY MOTHER. BUT SINCE I HAD NEVER BEEN THRU LABOR BEFORE AND WAS SO UNCOMFORTABLE ALREADY IT REALLY SCARED ME TO HAVE MY SON NATURAL. I HAVE MET LOTS OF WOMAN WHO HAVE HAD THERE FIRST CHILD BY C-SECTION AND SEVERAL MORE CHILDREN NATURAL. ALSO MY RECOVERY WITH KAMRYN WAS VERY LONG ONE.. THE NICE NURSES AT THE HOSPITAL DIDNT TAKE MY STAPLES OUT WHEN THEY WERE SUPOSED TO WITCH IS 5 DAYS AFTER YOU DELIEVER. AND I DIDNT KNOW THAT THEY WERE SUPOSED TO COME OUT THAT SOON SO MY SCAR GOT INFECTED AND STARTED COMING OPEN WITCH IS WHY MY RECOVERY WAS SO LONG..I STAYED IN THE HOSPITAL FOR 5 DAYS LAYING IN BED EXCEPT THE SHORT VISITS I GOT WITH MY DAUGHTER IN THE NICU. BUT WITH MY SON IT WAS REALLY QUICK. I ONLY STAYED IN THE HOSPITAL A TOTAL OF 2.5 DAYS. I WAS ONLY IN PAIN FOR LIKE A WEEK AFTER I HAD HIM. (I MADE SURE THE NURSES TOOK THE STAPLES OUT!) I WAS UP AND WALKING AROUND LIKE NOTHING HAD HAPPENED JUST THE NEXT DAY. THE MORE YOU MOVE AROUND THE EASIER IT IS. THE ONLY TIME IT HURT BAD WAS WHEN MY DAUGHTER WHO WAS 18 MONTHS AT THE TIME WOULD COME JUMP ON ME OR SIT ON MY STOMACH OR WHEN IT WOULD RUB UP AGAINST SOMETHING. OTHER THAN THAT IT WASNT TOO BAD. WELL I GUESS IT DEPENDS ON HOW YOU HANDLE PAIN TOO. SURE YOU WILL MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION FOR YOU. GOOD LUCK!

I say if you want to try a VBAC then go for it! First of all it is to soon to tell anything and he should not be making you "make a choice". Every birth is different. If it comes time to it and you are in labor and need a c-section then you can have one, but you can not start a c-section and switch to vaginal. KWIM? If you are not comfortable with your doctor and feel he is pressuing you to do somthing that you do not feel is in your best interest then FIND ANOTHER DOCTOR!

Youre right, vaginal delivery is the most natural, and healthy way to deliver your baby. i would say, go for it! if something comes up later in your pregnancy you can always change your plans and have that c-section. but if youre healthy and low risk there is no reason to not try for that vaginal birth - after having two babies naturally, knowing that i was able to participate in all the happenings of birth both during and after was amazing... honestly having your minute old newborn on your chest searching for your breast is an amazing thing!

Personally, I think that c-sections are a way for the medical occupation to make more money. I have known women who have had c-sections prior and normal vaginal deliveries after. What kind of a question is that to ask you to make that kind of a decison weeks in advance? When your baby is ready to come out it will come out! Those vaginal muscles STRETCH!!! Woman are MADE to have babies!!! I am Canadian and it seems like we are reverting back to the time when the "C-Section" was the easy way out. I know what a lateral incision feels like, I know it is painful, I had an ovarian cyst removed. I also have one son, normal vaginal birth, painful, but I did it. Oh, my incision was 10 years ago and it didn't split, hemmorhage or anything bad.
It just seems "quick and dirty" like they want to get you out of the way fast with no complications yet you are left with a permanent scar and no idea what "natural birth" feels like. Seems like we women forced into this get the bad end of the deal and the Dr. gets it over with quickly and doesn't have to stay all night/day to wait for labor to happen. Does this make sense? My mother had two normal vaginal births and didn't like hospitals and chose to have my two youngest sisters at home. The Dr. came after they were born and checked them out. In the middle of the night. My mom's sister acted as midwife (she is a nurse) and my dad preformed the delivery. Me and my other sister got to watch. How many times do you hear that?
Well, whatever decision you make, I wish you the best.
S.

Well T. im a 25yo mother of two, my daughter is 4 and my son is 4 months. I had a C-section with both of my kids the first was emergency because my daughters heart had stopped and the second well i wouldnt say it was emergency but it wasn't planned. When i found out I was pregnant I knew right away that I wanted to have a vaginal birth, but things didnt go my way so i had to have another c-section. Nobody can really suggest either one because when it all comes down to it it's up to the baby lol. I was upset that I couldnt have natural but in the end I was also happy because I didnt have to worry about anything happening to him as he passed throught the birth canal. Oh yeah the breastfeeding part was hard because of the cut but i just had to stand the pain. Good Luck to u

T.,

See i have always heard that if you had a C section for the first baby and if the incision was vertical (up and down) that its not a good idea of having a baby vaginally but if the incision was horizontal that possible tears are very minimal and that in some cases would be okay to deliver vaginally. Bu t i agree totally with you it is your decision on how you would like to bring the baby into the world...but you got to consider your prior experience and health.

hi T. ,
i just wanted to say ...i had c- sections with both of my babies and yes it is a little dissapointing that you can't hold them right away , but babies don't know that , my advice do whatever is neccassary for a healthy baby .
also i have 2 different scars one bikini style and one up my stomach by my belly button , i show the scars to my kids , my son is 5 and he knows which scar is his and he will look at it and say thats where he came from , either way your child comes doesn't really matter ..... good luck and congrats
S.

I have only had a vaginal birth, but a great deal of my friends and mothers on my birth board have had C-sections, and were able to breastfeed without any problems. I'd make it a point to see a lactation consultant after giving birth. They can provide any help you will need. I believe they will also come to your house after you leave the hospital. There are a lot of breastfeeding resources out there.

I'm completely in the vaginal birth camp and thankfully was able to do so with my first 2. Though both had to be induced (12 days and 15 days late!). One was breech and they were able to turn him. I really fought a c-section and was happy with the outcome both times. So, I have limited experience with c-sections.

But, my good friend has had 2 c-sections. The first was after VERY long labor and 3 hours of pushing with no baby and then the baby was showing signs of distress. That one was an emergency and she said was difficult for recovery. The baby turned out to be 10.5 pounds born ON her due date! So, second time around, they said they wanted to take the baby a week early and repeat c-section because of the size factor. My friend was on board since the first experience with labor was so difficult. She said the recovery and pain was so much less than with the emergency procedure and said it was much less scary since everyone was calm and such. She healed faster and was able to get back to normal activity sooner too.

Like I said, I'm not a surgery person, but thought I'd share a positive experience with a repeat c-section. Good luck figuring out what's best for you.

I'm a mom of 2. The first was a c-section due to failure to progress. She was induced due to gestational diabetes and her size. Her head never engaged. My doctor gave me the choice with my second one. We decided to try a VBAC. Unfortunately, my son had tied the cord in a knot and wrapped it around his neck and then his body. As a result, he ended up being an emergency c-section. I had problems breastfeeding my first and ended up quitting after 6 horrible weeks of trying. My son had no problems breastfeeding although my milk was not giving him enough calories and he had to be supplemented as well for a while. But he continued to breast feed for 21 months.

I've known other mothers who have had c-sections and no problems with breastfeeding. I think it has a bit to do with the overall experience and the stress you are under through it.

Honestly, in deciding between the VBAC and the c-section in your case, I would consult another doctor. I would also ask about the incisions made during the first c-section. If either incision was made vertically (most importantly, the incision on the uterus), I would definitely choose the c-section. There is a much larger chance of a tear with the vertical incisions. So much so that most doctors will be unwilling to go natural if the incision was made vertically. If however both incisions were made horizontally, I would do 2 things. I would ask my current doctor to explain why he recommends the c-section giving specific reasons. Then I would make an appointment for a second opinion and ask that doctor to explain his recommendation. I would also ask both doctors the risks of both. There has to be a lot more reasoning behind your doctors recommendation than that 1% chance. With the many risks of any abdominal surgery, I can't imagine he would recommend the surgery over the VBAC without several good reasons. But I would definitely want to know exactly what they are before making the decision to make sure they are good reasons for you to choose that course of action, not an easy way to fit the birth into his schedule. Good luck!

T.,

Congratulations on your pregnancy! I just want to let you know that you have options, and don't need to decide right this minute, even if your doctor wants you to. This is YOUR body, YOUR baby, and YOUR birth, and YOU can make the calls! I would encourage you to find support in your area, such as through ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network). There's a local group (www.icanofnova.org).

I'm happy to help you look at your options, if you'd like. I've had 3 children, my first being vaginal, second a cesarean, and third a VBAC.

In terms of your pelvis, I think perhaps what was meant was a cephlapelvic disproportion (CPD), which means that the baby wouldn't come out in that position. Often times, if the baby is malpositioned (you mentioned she was coming down, probably with her head cocked at an angle). There are things you can do in labor to try to help that if it happens again, but OBs aren't as acustomed to helping (they're trained as surgeons). So, you may want to also consider hiring a doula, who is a knowledgeable support person.

Anyhow, best of luck. Please let me know if I can help!

L.

If you want to try a vbac delivery, and the doctors have no medical reason for you not to, then go for it! If your doctor is already telling you that he wants a c section, you need to find out his reasoning. At this early in your pregnancy, there is really not alot of medical reasoning behind it. If you want to go for the vbac, you need to have a doctor that is behind you in your decision. You may want another opinion and possibly consider finding a doctor that is more open to the idea.
About the pelvic dysfunction, it is quite possible that you could have delivered in a different position without a problem. Also there are exercises and procedures (non-invasive, non-medical) that you can do in labor that open the pelvis to allow a baby to be born through an otherwise small pelvis. (I can give would like, let me know.) Consider finding a doula to assist you, they are trained in positioning and comfort measures.
Also that was 10 years ago, a lot may have changed in your pelvis. You were a young mom last time and your body may not have been prepared for childbirth.
About the breastfeeding, I would recomend contacting La Leche League and start attending meetings during your pregnancy. They offer wonderful advice on getting started and making it work.
I hope all works out well for you.

Just remember this is your birth and you have the final decision on what happens (unless something medically necessary comes up) If all is going well, do not let anyone talk you into or out of what you want, but be open for a change in your plans, just in case!

I had a c-section with my first because I was unable to dilate past 3cm and was in labor for 36 hrs when they decided to do the c-section. Of course mine was not a vertical incision (excuse my spelling I'm having a hard time today with that). When I got pregnant with my second they wanted me to have another c-section because they told me it was so unsafe to have a vaginal birth after a c-section. About 7 weeks before I was due I was given a list of days to pick to have a c-section. I missed my scheduled doctors appointment even though I felt like I was going to start a period and new something was wrong. My water broke later that night and I went to the hospital. It just so happens that my doctor was off that day and I had another one. I told him they wanted to do another c-section. He told ME that they are finding that most repeat c-sections are unnessecary and we would play it by ear while I was in labor. I ended up delivering my son by vaginal birth several hours later. I did not have any problems or complications and am very grateful that the doctor I had helped me make an informed descision. I don't know what to tell you because my son was so pre-term that he was tiny, only 4 pounds so that might have led to so few complications for me. I would seek another opinion because surgery for the sake of surgery seem so unneccesary, and wherever you give birth should be equipped to do an emergency c-section if the vaginal birth starts to become complicated.

i was blessed with an understanding doctor when i had my 2nd child. my son was a c-section but only because he was too big pretty much and i have small hips. my doctor went over the things that could happen with my 2nd and left it completly up to me what i wanted to do. i had no problems until they discovered my placenta was starting to tear ( mostl likely from me still carying around my 1 yr old at the time) we were set on a vaginal delivery until about 3 weeks before my due date when she thought it was going to be a bad idea cuz it was slowly tearing more and more. your doctor should definately be on your side with what u want to do, as long as you understand all the options i dont see a problem. plus since it's been 10 years since you had your daughter i dont see y it would be a problem at all, a lot has changed in 10 years. more technology. id say to go with your heart and what you feel is right for you to do, it's ur choice, you are the mother.
some advice on the c-section, the 2nd time around is a lot easier too because you know what to expect, i was up walking around the next day and eating some regular foods. it was a lot easier than the first time, the first was just horrible..pain, feeling uncomfortable, not being able to get up...it's most likely not goin to be like that the 2nd time.

I think you have enough time to make this decision. You should do what YOU want. It is your delivery. If, in the end, it comes down to the health of your baby or your own, I would then do what the doctor suggests. Good luck.

hi T.,
I think that you should do what you want to do. There is definitely that chance if you do VBAC for a rupture. If you do have pelvic dysfunction they should be able to tell that the closer you get to your EDD. As far as being able to sleep on your side I had to 9lb babies(naturally) and still I could not lay on my side to sleep till weeks after. I am not sure because I did not breastfeed but I think you can get sores on your nipples from breastfeeding after a vaginal delivery too!

A birthing plan (despite any circumstances) is just that - a PLAN. If you've planned on having a vaginal delivery, especially since you feel cheated from the last birth, then continue to plan on that. The baby will make the final decision for you both. You can always resort to C-section if you or the baby are having difficulty...but no one ever has emergency vaginals. Once you tell the doctor that a c-section is ok your birth plan choices are out the window. Do not let a doctors preference push you into doing something that is "scheduled & easier" for them.
Hope everything goes well, and no matter what, just focus on doing what feels right & is safe/healthy for your new baby.

Dear T.,
I just joined this site so I am sure I am a little late in helping with a proper decision on your current quest. I am 26 years old and I have 2 boys. When my first son was born I was induced because they thought he was getting to big. I knew early on that I had a tilted pelvis as well, but had the option of a vaginal birth. I decided to stick with that decision, but when it came to the birth time, I wasn't able to. I was in labor for 22 hours with him and only dialated 1 cm. the entire time. They told me because I had a tilted pelivs it was making it harder for a vaginal birth. I wound up having to have a c-section right away. I was told in the begining that I should not have any problems with a vaginal birth, but in the end I had to have a c-section. There was no other choice. When I became pregnant with my second son 2 years later, I was 25 weeks along when they told me that they would prefer me to concider another c-section for the safety of the baby. I was a little destrought because I felt like I had a huge decision to make. Knowing the outcome if I didn't have the c-section was something I didn't want to have to go through. It was hard having a c-section with both my children and trying to breast feed. It was very difficult as Iam sure it is for every woman who has a c-section. If you do decide to have the c-section, a verbal note I was given: "It is easier if you mentally prepare yourself before hand". Since you have already gone through it once, you know what to expect. I must stress to you that it was alot easier with my second. I was very misserable with my 1st c-section because I don't take pain well, but after my second one I was up and out of bed the same night with minimal problems. I hope that everything goes well and that you have a safe and happy holiday.

K. W.
Thurmont, MD

Hi...I am a natural vaginal birth kind of girl. Do you want to try vaginal delivery? I was in Labor 23 hrs, and pushed for 3hrs, and it wasnt bad at all....Seriously it was work, but only 13 months later, I am ready to do it all over again.LOL. I labored for so long, they honestly thought i would have to have a c-section...but I was determined to do it by myself...and i did....I have heard great stories as well about c-sections.."NO labor pain"....I honestly wanted to feel it, so i knew how i was doing...I wanted to feel the joy of a little one trying to get out to see me...and that is all i thought about...She came out...yes she did, and i dont remember a darn thing from the time they episotom...me "cut" till after they stiched me up till i breast fed...recovery time was 6 weeks, but no scar to take care of...If you truly want to do this vaginaly, get a second, and third opinion....you may change doctors, but it is what is best for you and your baby....Good luck...

I had 2 C-sections. The 1st one was an emergency because the baby was stillborn. The 2nd one was completely fine. I breastfed my daughter afterwards, and they gave her to me right after she was out. As far as sleeping, I did sleep in my big chair when I first came home, but that only lasted a day or so.

It is ultimately your decision. When I got pregnant with my 2nd daughter, I didn't care what they did to me, as long as the baby was fine.

T.,

First things first, find another doctor. Anyone who wants a decision this early is in too much of a rush to really care about you.

Second thing, I have had both. My first born was Vaginal and without any drugs (just the assistance of a hot tub). I had a nurse midwife. The birth itself was fine, and in fact, said immediately after, "I could do this again", but the midwife was still a student (everyone failed to mention this) and when it came time for the episotomy, she waited for the doctor, who was of course late, and said that the baby would be there in one push. He was right, but the reason I am mentioning it, is that I had severe damage to my perinium and vaginal area. I had red raw muscle tissue that when I went to a specialist plastic surgeon, he said he could not fix for three months. So i got it fixed, then had to wait 3 months for it to heal. The reason I mention this as well is that first time out, BAM, pregnant with my second. I had chosen a C-section due to the trauma, and the plastic surgery I just had done to repair what was done by the first birth.

I am slight, only weighing 106 pounds, and my first was 8 pounds 9 ounces, and my second (which the doctor said I would have had a c-section for anyway) was 9 pounds 15 ounces.

If you are slight, and there is concern about the birth canal, then you might want to consider the c-section. Personally, I did not like it as much. It was sereal and not at all like my first birth, which was warm, but tiring.

I would get a second opinion about your pelvic thing, and if there is concern, hon, I have studied cognitive neurology, as well as was a Personal Injury paralegal. I have seen the damage that can be done to the brain during a vaginal birth when either the mother was too slight, or was induced and they let the labor go for too long. On the other hand, my second, who was C, has asthma, and although my husband has asthma, I think, and so did my ped. that his three courses of pneumonia in his first three months of life were due to the fact that he was c.

Pros and cons to both, but definitely get a different doctor.

L.

Hi T.,

I didn't have the same exact experience as you but any advice is helpful right? Well what happened to me was that my only child was getting to be large for her size in the womb and my doctor said that she would definately reccommend a c-section since my baby was over 8 pounds in the 7 month of pregnancy. I was ok with it since i was terrified of natural birth from all those videos that they make you watch and past experiences from relatives. I was actually happy with my C-Section experience. For me there was no pain, no water breaking, no mucous plug since it was a planned one. I mean I did miss not being able to hold her right after she was born but I got over that after seeing her for the first time. I know all about those nurses at Saint Vincents. I was not happy about the way they did things. I told them not to bring the baby in at night unless it was for feedings (i was trying to breastfeed at the time) and they brought her in the middle of the night for a feeding and never came back to get her. I fell asleep in the bed with her in my arms since i wasn't able to move around much to put her in the bassinet thing. I mean being a new mom and in a bit of pain made it so hard to sleep and knowing she was in my arms made it impossible to sleep properly. Especially since you have the risk ok possibly dropping the baby. They will get my opinion on that if I have another baby at that hospital. Hope this helps.

Hi T....congratulations on your upcoming baby and birthday! I am not a doctor or really trained in any kind of medical anything but I have found that hospitals really like to do c-sections. I guess its just easier than waiting, I'm not really sure what the explination is but it sounds strange that you would need to decide something like that so soon. Maybe you could find a doula or midwife for some other opinions, or even a different doctor and hospital! Every woman should get to have a vaginal birth if thats what they want and not be forced to decide at such an early time. I hope everything turns out great and good luck!

T.,

Please visit the ICAN website (www.ican-online.org/) and review their white papers. There's lots of great information about the downsides of having c-sections (including the problems you listed) and promoting VBACs (which are also encouraged by the American College of Obs & Gyns). There's also a wonderful listserve associated with ICAN that can help answer lots of questions, as well as dealing with emotional pain from having an unnecessary c-section. According to recent studies, the risk of a uterine rupture is less than 1% if the doctors don't induce or augment labor, and there's only one prior c-section. Additionally, there is a slight risk of uterine rupture for all births, not just VBACs. The risks associated with a repeat c-section are significantly higher.

If you do decide to VBAC, you probably will need to find a more supportive birth professional. This one sounds like he's too ready to cut despite your wishes, and there's really no reason to be pushing this decision so early in the pregnancy.

A.
Hoping to VBAC in May 07.

I think you should get a second opinion, and maybe even a third. I was a c-section with my first child when I was twenty years old. I had the cut from the belly button straight down. I didn't get to hold my baby either, or even know what was going on for over a day. Then, I was still in too much pain to enjoy her. I was in the hospital for nine days.

My second daughter was also a c-section, and TOTALLY different. It was a wonderful birth. I opted for the bikini cut. I had an excellent doctor (Dr. Hohman). My husband was in during the birth and we were actually laughing and talking throughout the surgery. They brought my child to me immediately after she was born, but she had very low blood sugar and had to be tubed, which would have happened even with a vaginal birth. Upon return to my room, my child was with me as much as I wanted, and I held her and laid with her in my bed. The nursing staff at Christiana Hospital is beyond exceptional--they are the best. They go out of their way to help you and make sure you are comfortable. I was out of the hospital by on the third day. I had minimal pain for about a week. I think the hardest part was sitting up in bed from a laying position. This was a great experience and one that I enjoyed. I was 40 years old for this delivery.

You ABSOLUTELY have options. You can do it vaginally and I strongly suggest you find a new doctor to support you. Check out mothering.com for vbac info and support!

stick to your guns!
K.

Hey T., I'm sure by now you have so much advice that you don't need anymore. However, I am an "advice junkie", and I love to give my advice if it may help you in any small way:) I also had a c-section, which was scheduled the day after I had my last ultrasound because my son was over a week past due! So, I went in not knowing what to expect, and through the whole experience...I hated it all!! I cried non-stop because of the pain, I only remember bits and pieces of the delivery, and had to be sedated because of my nerves and I was trying to move on the surgery table. Although my experience was horrible, I do intend to have my next child the same way! I know that sounds like torture, but I feel that the risks of having a vaginal after already having a c-section are more frightening! I would rather go through the c-section and at least know what to expect, then go through a vaginal and have fears of the "what if's" and fear the unknown! However, having said all this, ultimately the decision is your's and no one else's to make! Don't feel pressured by your doctor. Take your time, research your options and feel fully comfortable with whatever decision you make! I wish you a safe, happy delivery and more happiness to follow:)

Hi I had an emergency c-section for my first son 10 years ago. 2 years later, I had to make the same decision when I was pregnant with my 2nd child. I delivered him vaginally and I had no problems with my bikini cut incision. I now have four children and the last 3 were delivered vaginally by choice. I find it easier to deal with. I liked holding my child immediately after birth and being able to walk around with no pain. The births turned out well, and I was able to enjoy my newborns with no pain. I Hope this helps!!

To start-good luck with whatever is meant to happen because that is what will happen. My closest friend had a c-section for her first child. However, with her second child she had moved out of state and had a vaginal birth. When she delivered her third child, she had moved back here and was told that she shouldn't have had her vaginal birth and they gave her a c-section.
I really think that you should research both sides. I know that she breastfed all of the children, so a lactation consultant would be helpful for you. I think that you should also get another opinion because this is really early for them to tell you one or the other. I know that she talked with her doctor throughout her pregnancy before they made the final decision.
As far as St. Vincent, I agree with you on the care. The first time I was there, I wasn't really pleased with the care in recovery-they literally didn't bring me food for a whole day! But I loved their NICU nurses and the delivery staff. As for the last two times, they were much better. But I also went in there knowing what I wanted and not afraid to tell them about it. It is your body and you will know what is right and what isn't.

T., if you feel strong go natural or a Vbac " vaginal birth after c-section. Maybe this time you can have a natural and go for it. but if at the end you don't dialet or whatever problem that may arise that a c-section is called for than do it. Don't feel bad or that your not a full mother cause you didn't have it natural vaginally that is. As long as the baby is out and healthy is what matter no matter how he or she comes out. The ususally say a second time around or third or whatever the number is after one its different. As for breast feeding if you can do it than its great if you can't once again dont feel bad. When i had my daughter who is 5 months right now, I was soo ampted to breastfeeding than of course the worse happens or at least i felt it was, She kept turning yellow each time i feed her. So dr.'s said she couldn;'t tolerate my milk. do whats healthy and safe for the bith f you

Hi T.,
I know exactly how you feel. I had my first baby 7 months ago, and had an unexpected c-section. If I have another child, I would definitely want to try vagianl delivery again. I was extremely disappointed about having the c-section. I know most doctors don't want to do VBACS. I would just do your reasearch, maybe talk to other dr's if possible, about VBACS. They wouldn't be done if they were completely harmful, you know?! I had a hard time breastfeeding also, bc of the incision pain, and HATED being 100% dependent on my boyfriend bc of it. Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I know how you feel, and I think you should do what you truly want to do, as long as it is safe. Good luck & congrats on the coming babe!! :)

My first was a C-section because of emergency with my daughter. She is fine and 14 now, my second delivery was a vaginal birth, my doctor suggested thinking about it but never forced me to decide. I had her normally and it was completely awesome, go with you instinct and if you doctor does not support you - FIND A NEW DOCTOR - sorry I get a bit on a soap box with this, they treat birth as an emergency situation beofre it even is and it is the most natural thing that your body can do. So do what you feel is right for you and your body and your birth experience. Make sure you are with a doctor who supports you.

I had 3 c-sections. The first was because of an emergency. my second was 7 1/2 years after that and was planned. The Dr. told me I could have had a vaginal delivery but I didn't want to have to go through the 30 hours of pain I had before and then end up having a c-section. My 3rd was 4 years later and was planned. I had the same concern I didn't feel involved. I had the Dr's put a mirror up and I watched the whole thing. I wasn't exausted and felt involved. I don't want to tell you what to do but that was my experience. Good Luck

Hello T., my name is E.. My first child was a vaginal delivery, my next was emergency C-section where I was put to sleep, so my third I had the choice. I opted for the vaginal knowing all the risks but I like you did not want the incision and the extra recovery time. While the vaginal delivery was difficult, the emergency C-section was worse, I had horrible uncontrolled pain. My third that I planned to be V-back ended up C-section any was because my blood pressure spiked at 31 weeks and he had to be delivered. That c-section was with a spinal and was much easier. I didnt have the pain of the other one, and recovered much better. Things dont always go as planned anyway so you just kind of have to prepare the best you can but go in knowing babies have a mind of their own! Things can change at anytime. I think you should follow your heart and if things dont progress or go well with vaginal they can always then do a C-section, they do that all the time. Good luck, dont stress out over it, when the baby comes you'll be so into him/her that it wont matter how he/she got there. Remember that just because you sign the release for a vaginal doesnt mean you cant change your mind later.

I had 2 c sections. My first was just about the same reason you had one. I had vertical cut.An emergency c section. My son who was born 10 years later. (I was 35, was by a schduled c section.) It was so much better than the first. I picked the day. Of course he came a month early. (my water broke).It wasn't in a typical operating room but a wonderful O.R. with windows and music playing. But i was prepared for the second one. I knew what was in store. Talking to other mom's who had vaginal vs c sections...I'm glad I had c sections. If you had a bikini cut, you can deliver vaginaly. I had no choice. But with a pelvis disportion, which it seems you have. (when the pelvic bones are to large to open properly.)your saftey and the babies health is more important. I was told early on in my 1st pregnancy that i would wind up having a c section because of P.D. They were right....to me the whole miracle of birth is the end result. A beautiful healthy baby! hope it helps...good luck...B.

Hello, I am the mom of an almost 14 month old little girl and I just want to say that my c-section went really well, I got the bikini cut, I did have some difficulties with breastfeeding at first but she has never had a drop of formula still to this day, I had a lactation consultant help me, and since I knew it was going to be a c-section (was planned but my water broke 6 days early) I brought my boppy which helped SO much withe nursing although I did go get the one for nursing and baby to sit in I used my pregnancy boppy at the hospital, but anyway my point is the football hold is helpful at first until you get past your first few weeks then I just hold her in front of me and lay her on the boppy it is much easier that way, like I said she is 14 months old now and I didn't have too much of a problem with it you just have to have a good lactation consultant at the hospital. I delivered at Moses Taylor, and if you do decide to BF don't let the nurses persuade you into giving youor baby formula for the dumb reasons they try to push it on you, if you are determined to do it, don't let them push you =) When my husband and I have another baby I will be having a repeat c-section, my water breaking was only a 15% chance and she was breech my whole pregnancy which is like a 3% chance (hence, the planned c-section) so I figure if both of those things happened, that 1% chance of the uterus rupturing, could happen and that scares me. Do what you feel is best in your heart and what is best for your and that babies health. Anytime you need to talk with someone, i'm here i'm a WAHM so i'm home a lot. Just drop me an e-mail =) Oh and about the nipple soreness, the soothies the things you put on your breast to sooth it and the lanoline cream helped me a lot and its safe for baby to nurse with...let me know if you have any other questions i'm a BF'ing pro lol She is still nursing occasionally she isn't ready to wean and when she is we will stop as long as it is before she starts to talk besides momma and dadda =)