Hi, I am 36 wks pregnant with my second baby and having difficulty making a decision over whether to have a vaginal birth or an elective caesarian...anyone had both and can offer some advice?
I do not have a positive first childbirth experience and therefore am worrying about the second. My first pregnancy ended with pre-eclampsia, 4 days of max.inducement, waters being broken, syntoxin drip, epidural (as contractions incredibly painful), and after 18hours labour and only 5cm dilation an emergency c-section with foetal distress and meconium. I was then kept in hospital for 10days afterwards with blood pressure complications...so in total 2 weeks in hospital (which I certainly do not wish to repeat with my gorgeous toddler at home). I also found the recovery from the c-sect very painful and was as described in my medical notes as 'in shock'.
Fortunately this time round there are no signs of pre-eclampsia, just that baby is a bit on the large side, baby predicted to be 9lbs+. My consultant has offered me the choice of a VBAC or ELCS. He says there is no reason why I should not have a successful vaginal birth however I have reservations as only dilated 5cm last time after 18hr labour and do not wish to have a repeat experience. He says I need to be totally up for a VBAC however that is easier said than done. To be up and mobile afterwards would be great however I do not wish to risk the baby's health in any way by attempting a vaginal birth that maybe my body is just not set up to do. I would be very grateful for any feedback from others that have experienced both?
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Childbirth
VBAC or ELCS?
11 replies
clicks · 06/12/2010 13:29
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