VBAC

VBAC or C-section?

I had a C-Section last time, of course, and I want to make the best decsion the next time around.  The recovery was tough last time, but at the same time, I don't know what the vaginal birth experience is like or what would be easiest for the baby.  Anyone know the pros and cons?

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Re: VBAC or C-section?

  • We have a lot of great links and birth stories on our VBAC blog, vbacbumpies.blogspot.com, so check it out. :)

    It is hard to say what is best for the baby.  VBAC carries a small but real risk of uterine rupture.  Most of the time, an emergency c/s is done and the baby is fine, but babies can die from serious ruptures, but that is very rare.  You are more likely to lose a baby from an amniocentesis, which doctors do all the time, than from a VBaC.  That said, c/s puts babies at increased risk for respiratory problems, so it is not as though c/s are risk-free.  And c/s carries increased risks for the mother, including an increased risk of death.

    My VBAC was a wonderful experience and if I ever have a third child, I will definitely hope to deliver vaginally again.  Don't get me wrong, it was birth and it was hard and it hurt and it was a good 2 or 3 weeks before I started to feel back to normal, but I preferred it much more.  Just like with c/s there are good stories and bad stories.  For me, the decision ultimately came down to the fact that I knew I would always regret it if I did not try for a VBAC.  HTH.

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  • Pros of VBAC:

    -- MUCH easier recovery (I've done both)

    -- Overall less risky for mom

    -- Avoids C-section risks for baby (cutting, breathing issues)

     

    Pros of Repeat C:

    --  Avoids uterine rupture risk (but that is very small -- less than 1/2 of 1% as long as you are not induced).

    -- Birth can be scheduled. (that's a pro only to some people)

    It was a no-brainer for me to try for VBAC, and given the much easier recovery I am extremely glad I did.  

    DD 2007 DD 2010 Expecting #3
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  • Basically, a successful VBAC is best for mom, baby and future babies. Otherwise, a VBAC is riskier for baby and a RCS is riskier for mom. I think it might be 1/200 of VBAC's could be a uterine rupture, so while VBAC is great for many women, it is something to consider....to think about whether you think that you are an ideal candidate or not. Really, both choices can be great depending on you and your situation. This is a really great resource from the National Institute of Health:

    https://consensus.nih.gov/2010/vbacstatement.htm

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  • Thanks everyone for your advice!

     That link that novilise gave was very helpful, and it scared me!  It bothers me that the risks for my well-being increases after each and every C-section.  It's not like I'm planning to have 5 or more kids, but it still is scary thinking about the possibilities of the future.  I don't want my next baby to be at more of a risk, either!  I'll have to discuss with my doctor and pray that I'll make the right decision.  Thanks again, everyone!

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