VBAC possible but questions about interventions

[kittyonthebeam]

1st baby ELCS

Nearly 2 years on pregnant with second, currently 24 weeks. Have the option of another ELCS or try for a VBAC. Would like a VBAC as in so much pain with CS and slow, painful recovery last time and was in loads of pain when they pulled the baby out.

I have found a lovely doula who would support me all the way and who I really like. However, we're abroad, in the Middle East and the medical care is really not good. I am scared shitless of interventions and worry about something happening to the baby during the birth. I'm tossing and turning at night and can't make up my mind.

I don't trust my doctor to even make it on time to the delivery suite, nor do I trust the rest of the medical staff here. My doctor said she'll give me a trial labour but will give me an epidural in case I later need to be c-sectioned.

Now, I heard that if they give you an epidural you are more likely to have other interventions. I read it causes a chain reaction, i.e. if you have it, then you are x% likely to have a monitor, x% more likely to be strapped on your back, x% more likely to have ventouse or forceps.

I am adamant I don't want forceps. I'd rather have a CS.

Can you please make sense of my ramblings and tell me what you think? Am I foolish to go for a VBAC and hope there will be no interventions? Also, is my risk of tearing higher?

Can I ask the reason for your first ELCS? That can have a bearing on your chances of a successful VBAC.
I have been a doula at a few VBAC's now, most women have a good chance of having a normal birth.
Having an epidural can make other interventions more likely.
Ideally you would go into labour natualyy, stay mobile and avoid epidural.
Different hospitals have different policies for VBAC (like having a venflon inserted and continuous monitoring) but its up to you if you want to accept these offers.
I have supported women that followed all the hospital guidelines and others that refused venflons and continuous montiroring and others that had their VBAC babies at home!
In terms of your anxiety, hypnotherapy might help, see this-
www.natalhypnotherapy.co.uk/13.html
Where in the Middle east are you?
I know a good Consultant miwife in Dubai!
Selina x
PS More info at-
www.homebirth.org.uk/vbachome.htm

Hi Selina,

thank you for your suggestions and links. Most appreciated. I had an ELCS the last time because I have polycystic ovaries and had a few cysts growing even larger due to the hormones. I was given 3 options to deal with them: CS, hormone therapy or surgery after the delivery. I vehemently refused hormones as it's been linked to cancer in young fertile women and I didn't fancy a surgery after birth because I couldn't count on having any help at home after the baby was born. (DH travels a lot).

I was in agony during the procedure, I felt my organs being pulled and pushed and had to have extra G&A which made me sick. I'd rather try a natural delivery this time. It can't be worse..

I saw my former surgeon and he checked out the scar and said I'd be good to go for a natural. No cysts this time.

Sounds very stressfu. Glad you've found a good Doula. I'm sure the VBAC will be fine. You have at least a 70% success rate for VBAC.
Just need to get mentally prepared and decide which procedures you are willing to accept.
Ideally as little intervention as possible.
One of my clients had half an hopur on the monitors, half an hour off.
That worked quite well so she could be mobile.
And a venflon 'just in case' seems excessive and set you out with the expectation you may need it (al;so painful when anyone holds your hand!)
Happy to send you more info etc if you want it.
Selina x