C section or VBAC?

Question

Hi ladies,
Hoping for some advice here. 2 years ago I had an emergency c section after being I hospital for nearly a week being induced. My son then didn’t feed properly and we ended up back in hospital for another week.
My son was ok but my mental health really suffered. I didn’t realise how much until the craziness started lifting months later. Didn’t help that my work was sold so I had no job to go back to. 
I’m now 11 weeks pregnant and have the option of an elective c section or vaginal birth. In many ways I’d prefer the c section because it would be planned and controlled, but I’ve got a toddler who I wouldn’t be able to pick up.
Oh yeah, I’m in the uk and baby’s due the week after Brexit so don’t know if we’ll have hospital staff!
Anyone done 2 x sections or a VBAC?

Answer

As an OB nurse I can tell you the recovery is better doing a VBAC. Vaginal deliveries recover A LOT easier than c-sections (most times). I’ve had 2 c-sections. I wanted a VBAC my second one and both times my babies were breech. No one will do a VBAC after 2 sections. There’s always the chance you might end up having another section, but I’ve seen many a successful VBAC! Whichever way you chose I’m sure you’ll do great momma. 🙂

Answer

I’m in a similar situation and will opt for another c-section. I like the idea of having it all planned out. My doctor thinks I’ll end up with another emergency c-section anyway, so I mine as well plan on it.

Answer

I had an emergency csection with baby #1 and a VBAC with baby #2 and making to have another vaginal delivery with baby #3. VBAC was a lot easier on my body, glad I did it!

Answer

My ob scheduled me for April 11th c-section but insinuated that it’s not a guarantee. I had an emergency csection last year because I developed preeclampsia at 29 weeks due to an aged placenta and my daughter no longer had brain activity because of it. I don’t know what my ob is thinking but after being on the verge of a stroke and losing my baby, I think putting me through a VBAC would be a huge risk of high blood pressure, placental abruption and baby’s heart rate dropping to name a few. Either way, I’m fighting for another csection.

Answer

I am pregnant with my 3rd and had c-sections with both of my other children. Recovery was horrible with my first and a little better with my 2nd, but still not fun. Both times I ended up in the ER postpartum. My midwife actually suggested I try for a VBA2C since I wasn’t even allowed to labor with #2 and it’s been 5 years. Based on the research I have done, a VBA2C is actually less risky than a third c-section. I think for health reasons, if your body will do it, it’s always best to have a vaginal birth. Especially if there is any chance you may have more children. (Obviously in the absence of emergency situations or conditions that would make it impossible for a vaginal birth.)

Answer

As a mom going through the same thing. I think about how a vbac is not guaranteed and that I may end up with an emergency c section again. Also Im not sure how I feel about the 1/200 risk of rupture while in labour attempting a vbac.
The best person to ask is your OB or midwife that can go over your potential success rate.I'll add that the csection probably wasnt the cause of your feeding issues as I know many moms who have successfully breastfed and breastfeeding isn't something you have to do if arent interested no need to feel guilt.
Also this is a great evidence based group on facebook. There are tons of woman who have chosen both options as well as OBs, nurses, Anesthesiologists, some midwives and doulas as well. 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/birthaftercsectionfacts/

C section or VBAC?

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