Knowledge is power, strength and peace of mind. A mother’s experience of VBAC – Vaginal Birth After Caesarean Section
The first step is to speak to healthcare professionals, understand why you delivered via C- section in your previous delivery and what are the chances of this reason recurring. Seek multiple opinions, not to get the answer you want but to be reassured that you are taking the right decision for you and your baby. VBAC may not be an option for everyone. If a VBAC is recommended by the healthcare professionals then read up about it. Information and knowledge is key. Make it clear to all the wet blankets you may meet along the way that you have taken an informed decision.
Yes there are risks but there are risks crossing the road and we all still go out. A c section is major surgery and there are risks there too which many people overlook. Whilst recovery from a c section the first time round may have been manageable, the second time may not be as easy with another kid running around. This played a crucial role in my decision and kept me headstrong.
Make sure your birth partner is also on board with this decision. Whilst you may be determined, once in labour the situation may change. You may be put under lots of pressure to reconsider and your birth partner may be more in control of their emotions to help push for you.
Don't be silly. If you want to be taken seriously in hospital then you will need to follow their rules too. Once you go into labour do go straight to hospital, whilst it would be lovely to go through the early labouring at home, you never know how long this may take. The best way to avoid any of the risks associated with VBAC is to be monitored and monitoring can only really happen in hospital.
Be ready for a long labour as syntocin is not recommended but there are natural ways to boost your oxytocin so work on those. Your baby will come soon enough. You've waited 9 months, a couple more hours won't change anything. Access to pain meds will also be limited so be prepared for that too. Honestly once you hold your Baba you'll forget it all.
Be prepared, yes the situation can go sour and despite all your efforts you may really need another c section BUT you can set out the rules for this before it happens. Establish what the acceptable reasons for a c section are once you are admitted and if you have any requests for during / after a c section make them clear.
Remember whatever the outcome you are still a superhero. You have carried and delivered this baby and that is a miracle. Do not live with regret or with remorse. Now enjoy your beautiful bubble of sunshine and put the past behind you.
Patty
