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Birthing after a caesarian |
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by kseers  (November 2006) (rank 30th) |
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The process of birthing a baby 'normally' after a previous caesarian is called a VBAC ("vaginal birth after caesarian").
The average rate of caesarian in Australia is around 25% of all births - in certain states and in certain hospitals it is higher than this.
This means that one in four births are by caesarian (around about). Some of these are 'planned' or 'elective' caesarians - I prefer using the term planned as it is more accurate. Others are emergency caesarians - these can be for a number of reasons, but usually the safety of mother or baby.
My son was born by emergency caesarian due to fetal distress. I had not planned a caesar and knew nothing about them. In fact I was scared of having a caesar and went into shock when I had to have one. Because of the stress and the delay in bonding, my son and I had a few problems after the birth. I also needed a lot of physical support, with driving, housework and even hanging out washing (which is hard as we live in a small village away from medical help and with no family locally). So, I was not keen to have another caesarian if I could avoid it (even more so as I would have a toddler in tow with number 2).
I was told early on that a VBAC should be possible, due to the circumstances of my first birth, so I kept that in mind until I was pregnant again.
I went back to the same obstetrician & he gave me a choice. I was lucky as many women have to fight for a VBAC. He did have certain conditions though - constant monitoring & being in hospital from the first signs of labour. This is fairly common & is why many VBACers opt to home-birth (with an independent mid-wife).
There are risks - uterine rupture for one. The risks are very low, but must be considered. I believe though that the risks of major surgery are worse.
We opted to attempt a VBAC and due to a lot of preparation & prayer we pulled it off - despite a lengthy labour. I was blessed to have an ob willing to risk induction in a VBAC as many won't.
In my experience recovery, feeding & bonding were much easier after a 'normal' birth than a caesar. An hour after my second birth I was in the shower and walked down the corridor to my room. My baby was feeding within half an hour of birth and I felt connected to her immediately.
There are a few ways you can plan for a VBAC -
1) research & read all you can to prepare yourself mentally & know your choices
2) practice breathing & positions to keep you calm & comfortable
3) get good support - a doula or independent midwife can make a huge difference
4) talk to your doctor & hospital to ensure their support (if not - get a new one!)
5) write a 'birth preferences' list to give them & give it to them in advance
Some women may need additional support to get over their first birth as fear & negative emotions can lengthen labour. I attended a "Calm Birth" course and also saw a chiropractor about pelvic/back issues. These were very helpful.
So, in summary I just want to say VBACs are possible - look into them if you are in that position. They are beneficial for mother & baby. The greatest thing is to believe in your ability to birth your child and to stay positive. If you have any questions, please contact me!
