CS or VBAC??

RusticBrideNH · September 2012

Hi Ladies,

I am a far and few between poster but always lurking. We've got about one month until LO arrives and I am now faced with the actual decision to have a VBAC or repeat CS. I've done the research, thought about it, talked about it with midwives, doctors, in-laws (ugh), parents, and of course DH. I have a counseling appointment scheduled next week with an MD. I want to try for a natural delivery but I don't want to be in labor for 3 days and finally have a CS like last time. I was exhausted and it was not a positive, happy, beautiful experience. As of right now we are going to schedule a CS at 41 weeks in hopes that labor begins (and progresses) naturally. If they want to induce then I will have the CS. If I don't go into labor then I will have the scheduled CS. However, I am honestly nervous about a VBAC. It seems like the risks are higher. But I also want to avoid the recovery of a CS. I am so indecisive. All I know is that I want a happy, healthy little girl and mumma at the end of it all. I was just wondering if anyone is in the same boat or has any words of encouragement or wisdom to share. Thanks!

pumpkinhead4 · September 2012

I think the best thing in this situation is to keep an open mind. Be open to however this little one decides to come out. At least, that's what's working for me. Some people would suggest getting a doula, especially if you are truly a good candidate for VBAC. I am apparently not a strong candidate like I hoped so I am going for the RCS unless something happens before then. Anyway, I would say waiting until 41 weeks gives you a good chance of going into labor on your own, that being said, you are in control----remember that. If you are laboring for a few hours and things seem to not progress and you are anxious about it, go with the section. Your doctor is going to watch you like a hawk and I am sure will be fine with whatever decision you make. I see no harm in trying at the VBAC if it happens for you but most doctors won't go to great lengths to induce you or augment your labor if it's no progressing. Just my 2 cents. Good luck!

MAprincess · September 2012

Hi! I agree with pp that you have to keep a bit of an open mind. I was a great candidate for a VBAC and it did work out for me. I opted to be induced at 41 weeks rather than go for the c/s, but was given the choice either way.

The risks of a VBAC are actually not higher than a RCS. They are petty much the same. The best bet is to look into the risks of both so you are educated on them for when you deliver (regardless of how it happens). The risks of a RCS become higher for the third c/s and beyond. So, many people opt for the VBAC if they are planning more children.

Either way, remember that each pregnancy/birth is different and whatever happened last time will likely not be the case this time. Good luck!

Mrs.DeliaMarieP · September 2012

You can always allow yourself to go into labor on your own, and if at some point it isn't going as you'd hoped, just ask for the c-section then. Just because you go into labor and see how it goes, doesn't mean you have to wait 3 days before you stop trying and have the section.

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CS or VBAC??

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