VBAC after elective c section

[Thomo0111]

My DS was breech and the consultants opinion and our personal opinion was that we would not try to turn him. He was born via elective c section at 39+4 and recovery went well.

My second will be due almost exactly two years on and I’ve been offered another elective c section or at the moment they are happy to support a VBAC on the basis that baby is not breech nearer the time and nothing else crops up.

I had my heart set on a water birth with my first and having to accept that I needed a section was hard but ultimately it was what was best for me and my son. I love the thought of a VBAC this time but one thing they have raised is that where I didn’t actually go in to labour before they have no idea how my body copes in labour etc and that I won’t be allowed to ‘try’ for as long as someone who hadn’t had a section previously.

Does anyone have any experience of an elective followed by a VBAC that they would be happy to share? Or did you stick with another c section?

Thanks

I had a really positive induced (late baby) vbac 2 years after a C-section for breech. They wouldn't let me get in the pool and baby was huge but the birth was still wonderful (despite being painful and tough). I had already had a previous vaginal birth though.

If you can't go for the vbac for whatever reason, you should look at natural/ gentle csection. They 'walk the baby out' which simulates delivery via the birthing canal and helps clear their lungs (which means better apgar scores) , delay cord clamping and give you time for skin to skin straight after birth whilst they close you up. I had 2 natural csections after vbacs were off the table and they were amazing.

I had a planned c section due to Covid in 2020 and this March I had a induced VBAC due to baby’s measurements being small. They said I had to be monitored throughout which was fine and wasn’t allowed pessary induction. Best experience ever to have a VBAC and really pleased I did it!

Thank you so much for mentioning this, I’ve never heard of it. I’m leaning towards an ELCS after an EMCS last time but would love a way to get some of the benefits of labour/natural birth for the baby, especially the fluid/lungs element. Did you get this just by asking on the NHS?

Yep. Another mum and I approached the hospital trust armed with info and outcomes about the procedure. I was deemed high risk so said if they didnt give me one, I'd be having a home birth (calling their bluff a little and was supported by some of the senior midwives) We were refused by one oby but we approached another who happily agreed. They now offer it as standard for all ELCS.

If I'd had the choice though, I would definitely have gone with a vbac. I've been opened up three times and my bladder is absolutely knackered now thanks to adhesions 😭

I tried for a vbac but it didn’t happen. But I will never regret trying. It’s what I really wanted and I gave it a good go

I had an emergency section with my first and then a VBAC.

Suffice to say it wasn't without it's physical challenges. But in the end everything went well.

I even had a water birth which was magical.

So it can be done!