When my partner and I attended our birthing class, we paid little attention to the C-section discussions. We were set on having a traditional, medication-assisted vaginal birth, so the rest seemed irrelevant. However, three hours into pushing, with my epidural fading, my doctor entered to inform me that a C-section was necessary. We quickly realized we hadn’t prepared much for the scenario. Thankfully, the medical team managed everything, and my partner embraced his role as the stunned dad with ease while I focused on coping with the unexpected news.
Although both my baby and I emerged from surgery healthy, the days that followed were tougher than I had anticipated. If you’ve experienced a C-section, you’re familiar with the discomfort of that first post-surgery shower and the challenges of recovering from major surgery while managing the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum hormones and caring for a newborn. You may also relate to the desire to avoid a repeat of that experience if possible. However, if you’re considering a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), here are four important things to keep in mind.
1. Be Prepared for Pushback.
The discussion around a VBAC often begins with skepticism. During my six-week postpartum check-up, my regular OB-GYN informed me that I would need another C-section for my next delivery. I didn’t question her authority—big mistake! It wasn’t until I visited a different doctor for my annual exam that I learned a VBAC was a possibility. He reassured me that, since my previous C-section wasn’t due to a specific medical issue, I could indeed consider a VBAC. However, that was the last time I received full support. Transferring to a new hospital was necessary because my original facility didn’t offer VBACs, and each new doctor or midwife I consulted seemed intent on discussing the risks of VBAC. Even on the night my water broke, while I was managing contractions, the hospital staff suggested a C-section. If a VBAC is important to you, ensure that your partner and healthcare providers are aware of your wishes, and be ready to advocate for your choice at every turn.
2. Your Chances of Success May Surprise You.
Medical professionals will evaluate factors like your anatomy and the reason behind your prior C-section. However, I was astonished to discover that hospitals utilize a calculator that considers seemingly unrelated aspects to gauge your likelihood of achieving a successful VBAC. Elements such as age, body mass index, and even race play a role in this assessment. Interestingly, statistics showed that white women tend to have higher successful VBAC rates than Hispanic women, which left me scratching my head. Initially, I was told I had a 34 percent chance of success; however, once they used the calculator, I found out my odds were closer to 53 percent. Numbers can be deceiving, and while they provide insight into trends, they can’t predict your specific experience. Use this information as one piece of the puzzle in your decision-making process.
3. Expect a Different Recovery Experience.
This might seem obvious, but if your only experience has been a C-section, the recovery after a VBAC will be a new journey. After my C-section, I was confined to bed until the following morning due to the epidural. My first steps were painful as I shuffled to the shower with assistance to wash away surgical tape residue. Climbing into a tub was out of the question, so I was placed in a room with a walk-in shower. In contrast, after my VBAC, I walked from the delivery room to my hospital room less than two hours post-birth. I didn’t have a catheter, didn’t require morphine, and I wasn’t fearful of pain with every laugh or cough. I kept expressing to my partner how incredible I felt. While every recovery is unique, generally, a VBAC recovery won’t resemble that of surgery because it isn’t one.
4. You Will Feel an Immense Sense of Accomplishment.
Believe me when I say that my VBAC stands as one of my proudest achievements—right up there with my college degree. After enduring countless reasons why I shouldn’t pursue it, I felt a tremendous sense of pride in accomplishing my goal. I often imagined sending “thank you, but no thanks” letters to every healthcare professional who had suggested I should choose surgery instead.
While a VBAC isn’t suitable for everyone, I’m not a doctor and don’t recommend making this decision without proper medical guidance. I’m simply a mother who wanted to welcome my child on my terms and hope to inspire other moms to consider their options too. For more insights on the topic, check out this excellent resource on fertility insurance FAQs, or explore how to create your at-home insemination kit.
In summary, pursuing a VBAC can be a fulfilling experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Being well-informed and prepared to advocate for your desires is crucial as you navigate this journey.