VBAC or not for second baby?

[Tasha121]

Hi, I'm wondering what others would do in my situation for the birth of my second baby. I'm currently 23 weeks and have only loosely discussed delivery so far with two consultants.

I am part consultant-led due to a section with my first baby. This was 'semi-elective' due to a combination of factors - baby predicted as 'big' during 38 week growth scans, persistant problems with movements since about 30 weeks, and eventually a 4 day induction which didn't work so opted for c section to get it over with. In hindsight, my body just probably wasn't ready with it being first baby etc. My son was eventually born bang on 39 weeks weighing 8 pound 2.

This time, I unfortunately have high BP, discovered quite early at 16 weeks. I am on a low level of medication and have been completely fine ever since, as well as asprin to try and help with growth. Due to this, both consultants I've seen have warned that best case scenario, they'd prefer me to deliver at 39 weeks latest, worst case could be earlier if baby growth slows, I develop pre-eclampsia etc etc.

I just don't know what to do around the birth - I found my section absolutely horrific to recover from last time, despite it being planned. I bled for weeks on end and struggled with movement for a long time, my scar kept getting infected, the list goes on! I found it very hard being kicked out of the post-natal ward 24 hours later, I know some are desperate to go home but I really wasn't ready, and the painkillers werent touching the sides. I went into this pregnancy adamant I wanted a VBAC, but now as time goes on, I'm just not sure.

I'm in Yorkshire and my trust will induce after a section, but only using the balloon in case of scar tissue rupture. My concern is, at 39 weeks or potentially earlier, is my body really going to respond properly to this method? Last time with pessaries etc I think my cervix got to 0.5 cm and the midwives just weren't confident it was enough to break my waters.

I'm wondering whether to just put down for a planned section so at least I know roughly when the baby will come, will be easier to organise childcare for my son, and I am better educated on how to care for my scar/scar tissue this time.

However, I'm terrified of having another awful section to recover from, especially with a 3 year old to look after too. This all depends on things progressing OK with growth and bp, which unfortunately no one can predict, so the worry around the unknown is also starting to kick in as I get further on.

I'm in a similar situation, currently 16 weeks pregnant wondering what to do. I definitely won't be having another induction as I feel like I was just so exhausted after it all that I didn't actually get to enjoy my newborn.
I haven't discussed my delivery with anyone yet, however in my head an elective section will be the best option, as much as I would like a successful VBAC. Although saying that, if I went into spontaneous labour before the date of my planned section I would probably go with it and see what's happens, assuming there is no reason not to.
Good luck

@rainraingoaway86 sorry you're in a similar situation to me, it's the not knowing isn't it that's the worst! I think I'll probably only be able to make a proper decision around 35/36 weeks if all stays stable until then - I agree though, possibly planned section but will give things a go if I miraculously go into spontaneous labour beforehand. I think my body seems to 'like' being pregnant tbh, I just can't imagine myself going into labour before 40 weeks 🙃

I had my second baby recently, I had a failed VBAC and had to have another CS due to complications in labour but I won’t frighten anyone with that!

All I can say is that my recovery this time around was so much easier than the first, it definitely still ‘hurt the same’ but I was more prepared for the recovery. I honestly felt barely any pain by around Day 9 post section and was driving again 3 weeks post section if that helps!

I had an elective section with my second after an emergency cs with my first and it was the best decision I've made. I found recovery easier (perhaps as I knew what to expect). I really enjoyed the whole process strange as it sounds! Best decision for me and I'm so glad I did it.

I’ve just had my birth centre planning meeting (36 weeks). I had a phonecall appointment around 30 weeks to specifically discuss my VBAC request, call was about an hour.
For me they have given me ‘the okay’ as what caused a c section last time isn’t a particularly likely recurring event (baby head flex eg star gazing not looking down).
I’m keen for a VBAC as I possibly want a third baby and don’t want 3 cs. Also recovery time with a toddler.
I would definitely ask what their plan is for you and conversations they will be putting in your diary. It tends to be closer to the birth I’ve found.

to note I seem to be in minority among my other mum friends who are all going for second time c sections

I tried for a VBAC with my second. Went into spontaneous labour and waters broke but by 36 hours I'd only got to 3cm (which is where my induction got stuck first time around).

They put me on the drip, but said they couldn't do it for long because of previous section. It didn't do anything at all to progress my labour so ended up having another EMCS. I was in the hospital linger because baby and I both had infections, but the recovery was much easier.

My would got infected the first time around, mainly because the aftercare information was basically non-existant. 2nd time around, I had a much better idea of what I should be doing.

This time around I'm going for an elcs and packing for one! So peppermint gum and windeze for the trapped wind, slip on shoes rather than laces, and have fully briefed my partner in just how little I'm going to do for the first 10 days (fully believe being in hospital and limiting what I could do helped with the healing!!)

Thank you everyone for your comments, sorry mumsnet stopped emailing when I had a new reply! Really interesting seeing what everyone has decided to do, my biggest fears are a big baby that then gets stuck if trying to birth naturally (forceps!), or trying to go natural and ending up with an emergency section anyway. I have growth scans and consultant appts at 28, 32 and 36 weeks so I think I need to keep an open mind as I go along and see what happens - if he starts measuring at the top of the centile chart though I will 100% be putting in for a planned section!

I think that's sensible OP, good luck with the rest of your pregnancy I hope it goes well and baby's measurements stay on track.

Hey OP!

update on my VBAC, I had baby this weekend.

went into spontaneous labour and contractions intense, went into hospital north centre after an hour. was at 7cm on admission. Used tens and gas and air and begged for something stronger.

tried to go to labour ward, arrived and my back waters went. They were dark green. Baby was distressed and they rushed me in for emergency CS under general anaesthetic.

so VBAC down the drain!! I almost wished I’d don’t a planned CS but at least I know I’m my head no regrets because I tried.