I had an out of hospital VBAC in 2009, and the experience was incredible and inspired me to become a doula and CBE. I am now planning another in Nov of this year! (yay!) I just wanted to suggest some resources to mamas considering VBAC (and forgive me if any are repeats, i just rejoined this community after a long break.)
First of all, try and join your local ICAN group (usually they can easily be found through a google search, or as a yahoo group.)
ican-online.org (awesome site full of info on stats and providers etc.)
The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth Henci Goer
Expectant Parent's Guide to Preventing a Cesarean Section Carl Jones Silent Knife: Cesarean Prevention and Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC) Nancy Wainer Cohen The Vbac Companion: The Expectant Mother's Guide to Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Diana Korte Natural Childbirth After Cesarean: A Practical Guide Vaginal Birth After Cesarean: The Smart Woman's Guide to Vbac Elizabeth Kaufmann Artemis Speaks: Vbac Stories and Natural Childbirth Information Nan Koehler Birth after Cesarean: The Medical Facts Dr. Bruce Flamm Natural Birth After Cesarean: A Practical Guide Johanne C. Walters , Karis CrawfordAlso, the care provider and support that a woman chose for her VBAC greatly affect the outcome-more than anything else. I highly suggest looking for a midwife, or at least an OB that comes recommened by your ICAN group. Your care provider should make you feel respected and safe, not looked down on or lied to.
Get a doula too!! Not just because I am one, but because I have experienced birth with and without one. They are angels sent from heaven. Of course our husbands love us and support us, but only a woman can really walk you through the uncharted waters of childbirth (especially a VBAC.) Doulas are linked to
Physical..
Fewer requests for epidurals (60%), narcotics (30%)
Reduced use of pitocin
Reduced duration of labor (25%)
Fewer forceps deliveries
Reduced use of vacuum extraction
Reduced cesarean section rates (50%)
Neonate hospitalization and rate of complications reduced
Reduced chances of maternal fever and infection
Reduced maternal bleeding following birth
Increased chance of spontaneous vaginal birth
Psychological..
Mothers report more positive reviews of their birth experience Mothers have higher regard and increased sensitivity towards babies
Mothers feel more secure and have more confidence
Reduced incidence of post-partum depression Reduced levels of anxiety
One great book for women considering hiring a doula is
The Doula Guide to Birth by Ananda Lowe
Anyway-all these books are easily found on Amazon, and I just wanted to put a comprehensive list out there for mamas looking for more info!
Have a great night!
Re: Resources and ispiration for VBAC mamas!
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,and He shall direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Another good book, yes! I could list a ton of birth books (because of the certifications I'm getting) but didn't want to overwhelm everyone:) And yes, VBAC companion is a bit outdated VBAC statistic-wise, but I think that they still have it on doula and CBE reading lists because some of the other info provided is still current, or timeless. Are there any threds or forums on this site for women who are going for 2VBAC or more?
Thanks!!
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Oh I love her too!!
www.motherfriendly.org
www.theunnecesarean.com
www.mamabirth.blogspot.com
www.crunchyheartmama.blogspot.com
www.womanuncensored.blogspot.com
are all great too!
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