VBAC induction - any positive stories?

[LadyGregorysToothbrush]

I’ve seen quite a few VBAC threads, but looking specifically for VBAC induction advice.

I’m 36+3, and had a hospital appt today where I was told they want me to deliver at 39 weeks because I have high blood pressure.

Last time I had an EMCS at 40+11 after a failed induction and the cliched cascade of interventions. I got to 6cm but failed to progress further.

My hospital have said their policy is to induce VBACs with one round of the pessary and a low dose of the drip. I am very unsure and I think frightened by the prospect of another induction - I almost cried in the appointment. By the same token they have said I can decide to go straight for ELCS if I wish. I have a toddler, no family nearby, and the thought of not being able to lift him during recovery is what is putting me off a section.

So - any experience (positive or negative) of VBAC inductions? Hospital policy seems to vary a lot by trust, and the RCOG guidelines are cagey on this issue.

What are the risks of going past 39w with high blood pressure? Can the risks be managed with monitoring? Worth asking to see if a spontaneous delivery is an option.

I’m in Germany and had a VBAC with my second. My local hospital won’t induce after a CS as it increases the risk of your uterus rupturing. Like you say, the RCOG guidelines don’t have a clear position on this point though, other than acknowledging the increased risk.

I’m sorry you’re in this position - between a rock and a hard place! I was in a similar position to you in that I wanted a VBAC but I was advised not to go over my due date due to the placenta failing, and they wouldn’t induce. I cried in my hospital appointment when they wanted to schedule me in for a second CS. As if turned out the baby did me a favour and arrived spontaneously 2 weeks early. I’ll cross my fingers the same happens to you!

What are the risks of going past 39w with high blood pressure? Can the risks be managed with monitoring?

That’s exactly what I wished I asked the doctor! I will remember that formulation for my next appointment.

I really hope this baby comes early as well. It’s an active little thing so maybe it’ll just generally be in a rush to get out. I thought I was over the trauma of the first birth, clearly not!

Hi! I had a nightmare induction with my first (due to preeclampsia) and ended in a traumatic emcs. Vbac with forceps with number 2 (he had a massive head). Normal VBAC with number 3. Then have been induced by breaking my waters for the last 5 children. All VBAC. With number 6 nearly ended in emcs due to her being distressed at the speed of the birth (20mins) but in the end it was fine. With number 4 I was induced at 37+2 as I didn’t have enough amniotic fluid. With the others I’ve been induced between 38 + 2 and 40 +1. Can’t comment on the BP issue as I’ve not had a problem since the first. Good luck!!