VBAC-2, any thoughts? Post Reply

[mumsw11mum]

I'm 20 weeks pregnant with 2 previous emergency c-sections (failure to progress) and struggling with the decision on whether to go for a VBAC-2 or an elective c-section.

I am leaning towards trying again (VBAC-2) but of course petrified of rupturing during delivery.

Has anyone been in the same position?
How did you decide?
Which hospital did you choose, St Georges/Chelsea/St Thomas or private?
Any thoughts welcome, feeling very confused!

[Babber]

Hi!

I had an elective C-Section last year and it was the best! I loved it! I had a really big baby (although not so big as would merit a C-Section from the NHS). I have a private gynecologist for my regular pap smears so I asked her where she performs C-Sections and it was only at the Portland (very expensive!). I trust her to the moon and back so I booked in at the Portland. It was a lot of money but for me personally, it was the best decision and money well spent. It was a completely perfect birth and the staff could not have been better. My daughter arrived drama and trauma free and everyone was healthy. All the private hospitals or private wings have price packages online and break it down in various ways. I know the Portland has price break downs for Consultant-led C-Sections (with or without antenatal care included) etc. The websites for the private hospitals and wings also have guidance on how to choose a consultant. If you want the details of my gnyecologist, please PM me!

[mollys]

Firstly, congratulations!
I was in a similar position - 1st baby was an emergency c section and then I tried for VBAC with my 2nd but ended up with what they called a semi elective c section as they induced me, broke my waters but after 24 hours nothing was happening so they advised a c section
Third time around, it was recommended that I have a planned c section (though I'm sure if I had really wanted to try for a VBAC 2 they wold have supported me) and I was/am very pleased with it. Quite apart from the practicalities of being able to organise childcare for the older two and help for after the baby arrives as you know the birth date (VERY weird making the call to book it in!) I also really appreciated not being rushed into theatre in an emergency and just having a very calm birth
What have the doctors/midwives advised? I always think that they're the professionals so if they're pushing you towards something, they're probably right (hopefully!)

[babyosteo]

Why not discuss this with an experienced midwife? Neighbourhood Midwives
( http://www.neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk) have wonderful experienced midwives and offer a range of services locally. See if they have a care package that might suit you as they can see you through the rest of your pregnancy and the labour. It might really help you to know you have consistent care. Best wishes

[headshrinker]

I would always go elective in that scenario due to my experiences (will spare you the details) but I am curious as to why you wouldn't want one. The idea of scheduling it when you have 2 kids already seems like reason enough. I guess I really just hope that you aren't considering doing it out of a sense of failure or disappointment at your previous experiences. It seems like vaginal births (preferably with minimal pain relief) are seen as successes whilst those of us who end up with drugs and interventions are often left feeling like we have not quite fulfilled our womanly duties.

I guess what I am saying is that rather than seek opinion (and people are very opinionated on this subject sometimes), try to put aside any pressures and figure out what you really want. If it is important to you to give it another try then talk to your consultant and, assuming it is safe, go ahead. Otherwise, you have a free pass for an easier birth this time so take it!

Whatever you decide, I hope it goes well.

[liliwakefield]

Generic advice but try http://www.which.co.uk/birth-choice