Do you think I'll be pushed into a VBAC?

[sel2223]

Pregnant for the 2nd time (19 weeks) and currently overseas but moving back to the UK in the next 6 weeks.

First pregnancy I had an ELCS in the UK as I was within 12 months of a head injury which put me at high risk of seizures. I was also 37 years old and developed pre-eclampsia at 36 weeks so my ELCS was brought forward.

This time round the medical concern from last time is no longer an issue but I'll be 42 years old with a BMI of 33 this time and obviously I'm at increased risk of developing PE again.

It has just been a given from the start in the country i'm currently in that I'd be having another section and they would do it here at 38 weeks but I'm now wondering what the consultant in the UK is likely to say.

Do you think they'll assess me as high risk and recommend another ELCS or do you think they'll push for a VBAC?

My experience is that if you have had a c-section for any reason, it is assumed that you will have a c-section next time and you have to push if you want a VBAC.

I'm in a similar situation, emergency C-section got my first born, similar age range.

This time the consultant put forward some of the pros of vaginal birth and risks of a second C-section but I didn't feel pushed, it was very clear it was my choice. I told him I wanted another C-section and it's been scheduled.

Hearing about the slightly higher risks of complications of a second C-section did give me some pause - I wasn't aware at all.

I think it’s completely down to your trust and their hospital guidelines. I’ve just had a VBAC with my 2nd and my consultant was luckily very middle of the road. Gave me all the pros and cons but ultimately it was my decision. They can only advise you, you can’t be pushed to do anything.

Might be worth giving the NICE Guidelines for VBAC a read, it gives you all the pros and cons of both options. You can also change your mind at any point, I did my C-section consent forms at 36 weeks and changed my mind 30 mins later, had my section booked for 40+4 but went into labour at 40 weeks exactly.

For my second it was very much led by me, if I wanted a c section they would support me . If I wanted a VBAC attempt they would support me, there was absolutely no pushing. The conversation went like this ‘do you have any thoughts or feelings about how you would like to give birth this time?’

and then they talked me through the risks of both and said the choice was completely mine