VBAC or ELCS - what made you choose?

[T0rt0ise]

As title really, what was the deciding factor that led you to choose either a VBAC or ELCS after and EMCS?

Thanks

I haven't got there yet but there were a few factors for me choosing to try for a VBAC. First is recovery time probably easier and no restrictions on driving etc plus can more easily pick up and be normal with my toddler, second main one is that I would
Like to experience a vaginal birth, third factor is that if I have a third baby the chances of having a VBAC after two sections is really reduced and three c sections seems like a hell of a lot to put your body through.

I’m having ELCS. I’ve had multiple surgeries to my stomach. It’s butchered enough for another. I’ve heard some horror stories about how natural birth has ruined women’s privates and so I’ve chosen an ELCS. I also endured a horrible induction before my previous section and have no desire to go through that pain again..

My EMCS was overall a horrible experience, but for my 2nd i booked an elective because i remembered the pain of the contractions and i felt really out of control due to the pain and my pain relief restrictions. I also wanted an end date as i was very nervous of leaving the house or my hubs going to work and labour starting. Turns out my 2nd arrived the day before my section and by the time i wanted to tap out as things progressed pretty quickly, and then they had a couple emergencies, it was too late and i had to have the VBAC anyway. It was nice being able to leave hospital the same day (due to factors from both pregnancies i have a serious fear of staying in hospital) and even with stitches it was much easier overall.
Im going to book in for an elective again with my 3rd, im due around xmas time so dont want the risk of being in hospital for xmas, i know my limits and the pain that comes from healing and im hoping they stick to the "get them out the hospital as quick as we can" and id only have to stay 1 night. If i happen to go into labour beforehand i will commit to a natural birth but for me the good outweighs the bad for a section.

I've (eventually) chosen ELCS after a lot of research and note taking! - I feel like there is more uncertainty with VBAC. So if someone could tell me it would be a straightforward labour / delivery now then great I would probably try for VBAC but the uncertainty is too much.

My EMCS followed a traumatic few days and I just don't want to experience that again.

I know a few people who have had EMCS and ELCS and have said the experience is so much nicer and more relaxed with ELCS and as a result of being well rested etc. the recovery is generally much easier as well.

I hoped for a vbac for an "easier" recovery, and I thought things would be more manageable with a toddler at home too and a dh with very little time off work.
As it happened, nearer my due date my consultant thought an elcs would be a better option due to baby's size, never having had a vaginal birth and an unfavourable cervix and ultimately that's what happened.

Opting for a vbac so i
Can care for my toddler as usual, drive etc
I am preparing as best I can in terms of looking after my vagina , so perineal massage and I have asked for a compress holding on perennial area when pushing. Midwife assured me even though last ended in emc after 26 hours of labour she is confident this time will be quicker as my body will remember what to do, also my little one was back to back so that explains why I wasn't progressing much at all

I can't stand when people make c section out to be the easy option it is a huge operation and recovery planned or emergency and comes with same heights of risks as a vaginal