C-section or VBAC that is the question

lindseywit

I have to decide which route to go.  I change my mind about every week.  I am terrified of the unknown of a VBAC.  I had an unplanned c-section with my son due to fetal distress and a dropping heart rate.  I had a wonderful experience with my c-section other than I was so exhausted that all I wanted to do was sleep after surgery.  I don't want that again.  I thought my first c-section recovery was a breeze.  However, all of that being said, part of me wishes I knew what a vaginal birth was like and I am worried if I just do an RCS I will always regret it, but part of me is going to be upset if I try a VBAC and end up with an RCS.

 Other concerns are I have a 3 yr old and I am worried about taking care of him after c-section, I also babysit for little ones and I want to be able to do that around 6 weeks post delivery.  So for those of you who have had an RCS what was the recovery like for you?  Did you have an easier time, were you able to take care of your other LO ok right away.  I don't want my DS to be upset because I can hold the baby but he cannot climb up by me or I can't pick him up.  Sorry this was so long. Please tell me your opinions.  I am just so lost in this decision. TIA. 

Daisy22

I've had 3 c/s and each one got easier to me. The 1st was unplanned and due to not progressing past 1cm and water breaking with a lot of mecinum. I had no desire for a vbac for personal reasons. I had my 2nd c/s 15 months after the first. I was alone with both kids after a 1 1/2 wks. It was very easy. This time there was 20 months between ds2 and ds3. This by far as been the easiest recover of all 3. I was alone with all 3 after 2wks. It's actually been way easier dealing with a 3yr, almost 2yr and a newborn then it was with just 2 15 months apart. At hte least the 3yr can do something for himself now.good luck with your decision

mlf625

It's a tough choice, and really, none of our recoveries or experiences will have much to do with how it will go for you.  If you think you'll be sad and disappointed to not give birth vaginally, I'd strongly consider the VBAC.

Personally, I've never cared how I gave birth, as long as the baby and I were okay.  I gladly signed up for a RCS with #2 and this one, as well, despite being offered a VBA2C try.  My first c/s was planned and the recovery was easy.  My 2nd was even easier.  I'm going into the 3rd next week feeling hopeful that I'll have another great experience.

DS was 17 months when we brought DD home.  I felt fine to care for him from the day we got home.  DH stayed home for a few days and my mom was on hand for another week to help with cooking/cleaning/etc. but once she left we were good to go.  I just sat on the floor a lot and played with him that way, to be safe and not overdo things.  I took DS and DD to library story time 3 weeks after the c/s.  6 weeks post delivery I was back to light workouts and felt totally normal. 

Best of luck with your choice! 

emaddock

I don't have an opinion but feel exactly the same as you.  Just know you are not alone!  Perhaps plan for the VBAC but be ready for a csection just in case?  You already know what will happen with the csection so you can focus on the VBAC.  Good luck!

bumpuser2548131

I am in this boat, too. I go back and forth a lot. I think I'm afraid to verbalize WANTING a VBAC because I don't want to be disappointed if the circumstances at the time of delivery are not favorable.

Since I want 3/4 kids and everyone says that C/S risks increase with each pregnancy, I think it's the wise choice for me to at least CONSIDER VBAC. 

My biggest fear about VBAC is that my fear of uterine rupture/possible pain at previous incision site will make me scared to push with all my might.... I'm going to ask my doc about it at my next appt.

mistresscox

LOL I think I could have written this exact post (except I have a daughter instead of son)!!!!  I am feeling the same way.  Last week I was completely convinced that I was going to VBAC and this week I'm absolutely sure I want a RCS.  

My biggest concern is that I have a very physically demanding job (ER nurse in major trauma center) that I will have to go back to pretty quickly.  I know I will be able to go back better and faster if I VBAC, and I'm afraid I will be too slow and sore with a RCS.  That's literally the only thing I'm worried about at this point.   

ks3pink

I'm 2 weeks post rcs and I will say this recovery has been harder than the first.  Everyone I knoe said their second was easier but mine has not been.  I did however have twins this time and a tubal ligation so I am sure that probably contributed to things.  Plus I am older (was 18 with DD and am 24 now) and I really think those 6 years have made a difference.  I still can't hold DD in my lap.  I honestly can say that its different for everyone.