VBAC NJ

shanad

I had my first appointment for my pregnancy with the NP.  After she looked me over and we chatted and ask questions, I told her I'm interested in VBAC.  She said that she already had written down 2nd C/S.  She asked me why I had my original c/s, and I told her that I didn't progress past 6cm after 24 hrs labor, my blood pressure started to spike.  After my c/s the doctor mention that I had a narrow pelvic opening.  I think I ended up with a c/s because I was induced and DS wasn't ready yet.  She said that she doesn't recommend it and that c/s are just easier.  I said that I would speak to the Drs in the practice first and that I want a VBAC unless there is a medical issue that makes it necessary.

Then I find out the NJ has the highest rate of c/s in the country and that the hospital I delivered at has a 44% c/s rate.

Neither DH or my mom are being supportive either, I think it was just difficult for them to see me have such a difficult labor last time.

Feeling like a losing battle.  Any suggestions or encouragement is appreciated.

lkf041

Find your local ICAN chapter and see if they can refer docs that are vbac friendly.  It was a big help for me.  Just because your current practice doesn't think it's a good idea doesn't you can't try for a vbac.  Good luck!  Hopefully you can find a very supportive provider:)

shanad

Thanks guys.  ICAN doesn't have a Burlington County chapter.  Only seems to be in Central and North Jersey.

I hear Capital Health is great. but are a little over an hour drive from me.

I love my practice.  It's an all womens group.  I've been going to them for 15 years.  I'm hoping that some of the other doctors in the practice are more supportive than the NP.

je2161

Hi, I'm also in Jersey... near Edison. I had a c/s for fetal distress a few months ago, and can personally say that I am also not proud to be in a state with such a high c/s rate. But I am (still) trying to find peace in the fact that my c/s was necessary for the health of the baby.

If you go to the ICAN of new jersey (google it) website, they have a list of hospitals in new jersey, along with successful VBAC rates. It's a great site with tons of info!

cynth1

Just curious who you go to because I live in Marlton and just had a C-section this past November because my LO was breech.  I use Pinelands ObGyn and they are all women.  My docs did not want to do the C-section and were really hoping she would turn.  She did not so I ended up with the C-section.  However when I went for my yearly checkup we discussed me having a second child and I asked about the VBAC and my doc said that I would be a great candidate for one. Hope everything works out for you.

cchill01

Since you like the practice, you should definitely speak with one of the doctors.  But, I would be concerned based on what you've heard so far.  I've also been going to my practice for 15 years and I just had my last appointment with them in May.  I had a very honest discussion with my primary doctor from that practice, after which I said goodbye.  In reality, they're not really that good, if they won't do what's best for the patient.

The SEPA ICAN chapter can probably help you with recommendations in the city or just outside. I'd reach out to them for a referral.

As for your DH and Mom - I had exactly the same issue.  I have been slowly sending them all the research and information, so that they can make an informed opinion.  They've both come around and are now doing their own research. 

Phelia325

There is a SJ ICAN chapter - Camden County maybe?  That should be close to you in Marlton.  I'm guessing you are planning to deliver at Virtua?  I had considered switching to deliver at the fancy new hospital (I delivered my first via c/s at Cooper) but have decided to stay with Cooper.  I am EXTREMELY happy with my decision to stick with Cooper.  I have found the docs in the Cooper Ob/Gyn practice to very supportive and pro-vbac.  My doc actually had a vbac herself.  Cooper vbac stats are very good (by NJ standards).  And I am impressed with the docs.  They are more than just obs.  They are teachers and researchers and scholars.  I find that they are up to date on current info and not stuck in an antiquated way of doing things.  And honestly if i were to rupture, i'd rather be at cooper.  a vbac was important to me and i just felt that my best chance to do it and do it safely is at cooper.