How important is it to wait for pregnancy after a C-section?

[CsectionQ]

Just the question above really.

Our little one is 8mo and I’m nearly 35 so conscious of my biological clock given we have a few friends around this age who are experiencing infertility and going through IVF. However, I was told to wait a year to 18 months before another pregnancy.

If it is useful, I’d also like a vaginal birth in an ideal world but whatever is safest of course. I had an EMCS last time.

I’d appreciate hearing from anyone who had a VBAC following an EMCS, especially if you didn’t have a big gap between the pregnancies. I’d also appreciate hearing from anyone who advises against not following the medical advice to wait a year to get pregnant again! Does anyone know anyone who had a rupture or any other complications caused by/not helped by not waiting?

Thank you!

There are a few threads on this and some ladies have told stories of friends who have gotten pregnant after just a couple of months and it’s been fine.

Personally, I was pregnant again 8 months post c section. It’s all been plain sailing, but I’m yet to give birth! (I will be another elcs in a few weeks).

I don’t know anyone who had a rupture - but I read the stats on them when doing my own research. Rupture is most likely to happen during a vaginal labour, so, it would be best to wait as long as possible after a c section, if you’re keen to attempt a vaginal birth.

I have three friends who didn't wait 12 months following c section to get pregnant.

First got pregnant after 5 months, she was advised to have an elective c section as risk of rupture. She had a lovely elective section, no stress. Babies are 14 months apart and best friends.

Second has a 20 month age gap. First was emergency c section: Desperate for a VBAC, ended up having another emergency section but no other complications.

Third has an 18 month age gap, had a relatively uncomplicated VBAC. First was an elective section for breech, I say relatively uncomplicated VBAC as in she had complications from the vaginal delivery but nothing to do with the previous c section.

There will be lots of women who will be fine however a quick pregnancy drastically increases your risk of your scar rupturing and as such putting your amd the child's life at risk.

Also if IVF is required I would be very surprised if they agreed to the procedure before then