Tell me about VBAC

[SpanielFace]

Just that, really. I had an emergency CS with DS, (he was a footling breech, not discovered until I was 5cm dilated with a foot in my cervix!) but had a smooth recovery, was able to hold & BF him within 30 mins of delivery, and had very little pain, and was up and about within a few days. We're planning on TTC again later this year, and just wondered what the options were for next time? I know there are increased risks with VBAC - why? Presumably to do with scar tissue splitting in labour, but is there anything else? Would I need more monitoring? Would I be allowed a home birth, or a birthing pool in hospital?

Also, will I be given the option to choose an elective CS over a VBAC? I don't know what I would want TBH, given the choice - I was determined I wanted a natural birth last time, but I had such a positive CS experience compared to friends who had bad experiences with vaginal delivery, that it's made me think again.

Hi there,

I had EMCS for DS1 and VBAC for DS2. I found the recovery from the vaginal delivery no easier than the EMCS TBH. However, I had a great birth experience the second time around so I'm now pregnant with DD3 and I'm hoping to go VBAC again. I had a great team around me for my VBAC, presumably because I was considered higher risk. This meant I had great care throughout the labour and a very supportive/motivating mid-wife. They limit the length of time you can push for which is good because it motivates you to get the baby out before they intervene. You also get to go home more quickly after a vaginal delivery.

In terms of the risk, my understanding is that your scar could rupture but I think hospitals tend to be over-cautious and while I was constantly monitoried throughout my last VBAC, I'm going to ask for intermittant monitoring for my next labour so I'm free to move around more. Apparently hospitals are happy to do allow this as long as you sign a waiver. I'm pretty sure this would also mean you could have a water birth. You will most likely be disuaded from a home birth but you will be allowed one if you push for it. If you wanted an ELCS I think you have a good case.

I hope that helps. Good luck!
Jorior