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VBAC
want a vbac, getting bad vibes from ob
I had a c-section because dd was breech. That was 4 years ago.
My dr. made a comment early in my pregnancy about a RCS and I indicated that I wasn't sure that is what I wanted. So he goes into his "speech" giving all the risks of a vbac and says something along the lines of "you know what the risks of a c-section are". At that point I hadn't put a whole lot of thought into it but have since done more research and REALLY want to do the vbac.
I have asked him questions at various appts and the conversation ALWAYS goes to the risks of a vbac. Last month's appt I told him that I had decided I wanted to do the vbac so I had to fill out a form and then he had to submit something to insurance (I believe this is his malpractice insurance but now I'm starting to wonder if I heard correctly).
There are 4 doctors in the practice and he says he is the only one that will allow a patient to try a vbac. I asked what happens if one of the other drs. is on call when I go into labor and he said he didn't know. I said that they couldn't force me into a RCS and he said that was accurate and I asked if they could refuse to "be my dr" and he said that they can't refuse emergency medical care. Leads me to believe that I will get a whole lot of pressure to RCS if one of them shows up.
Today's appt he said he had submitted the paperwork but hadn't recieved approval from the insurance company. And then mentioned that in a couple weeks we would check to make sure this kid is in the right position. His tone of voice made me feel like I shouldn't get my hopes up.
WTH?
I like this dr and have been with him for years. I trust his judgement (he says that the only reason he doesn't like vbacs is because he has to be at the hospital the entire time I'm in labor (per his insurance) so it is a huge inconvenience but he thinks they are medically a good thing). I suppose I can understand that...but having a permanently itchy spot on my stomach is a bit of an inconcenience too. (I should grow some balls and actually say that to him).
So, I have told dh that I would like to hire a doula. I think having a "professional" be there to help be my advocate is practically a necessity. He was offended at first (as was my mother who will also be there) that I don't think either of them will be enough but he has agreed to whatever I want.
So, at 30 weeks - do I attempt to find a more vbac friendly dr? I hate change and hate the idea of trying to find someone new, especially this late in the game. Do you think having a doula present will be "enough" to help fend off the pressure from the drs? I have no idea what the environment of the hospital is...I've seen mixed reviews. I have asked one of the lactation consultants about it but haven't heard anything.
Sigh...I just want to have a nice easy vaginal birth and bring home a healthy baby! 
This discussion has been closed.
Re: want a vbac, getting bad vibes from ob
I would run away from him. He does not sound VBAC friendly in the least- in fact, he sounds like the definition of "bait and switch," and I would have a really hard time trusting his judgment.
Red flags, IMO:
1. a speech about the risks of VBAC but basically dismisses the risks of a RCS.
2. potential for a paperwork/ insurance mess
3. only one of 4 OBs will do VBAC- you have a 25% chance of getting an OB who says he is VBAC friendly (and again, I doubt that very strongly)
4. He actually told you he only dislikes VBACs because they are inconvenient to him- wth?
I know it's late in the game and change is hard, but this whole situation just seems like you'll have to fight for what you want- while in labor. Who needs that added stress? A doula is a wonderful thing, but she is there for support, and can't be expected to remedy a complicated mess of a situation. Personally, I would find another provider ASAP.
I think hiring a doula is a great idea and I would absolutely recommend one.
That said, there's only so much a doula can do when you have a doctor that doesn't support VBAC. A doula is not a medical professional and they should not be giving you medical advice. So there is only so much they can do if you get a doctor who does not support VBAC and starts telling you why you need another c/s. If a doctor wants you to have a c/s, they will usually find a "legit" reason to do it.
I think you should look around for another doctor or midwife and try to meet with them. You can always decide to stick with your current OB, but at least you will know your options and be able to make a more informed decision. It really annoys me that your OB told you that RCS is better because you know the risks of RCS (you know the risks of VBAC too!) and that VBAC is inconvenient for him (like recovering surgery is convenient for you, right?).
GL!
If there is any way you can get a new doctor I would. Some of the things your OB is saying sound exactly what my first OB said to me - before he eventually came out with the fact that he absolutely would not allow me to VBAC. I'd hate for you to get a surprise like that during labor.
You need to get away from this doc and fast.
Just because he will do a VBAC, does not mean he is supportive, obviously... he is not.
You have the best chance of VBACing because your first baby was breech. You deserve to find a practitioner who wants you to VBAC, not one who will only kind of allow it.
If you are having a hard time finding someone, contact your local ICAN chapter... they should be able to help you find a VBAC friendly practice.
this, 100%!
"allow"=/= support.