Natural birth or C/section..

Tara - posted on 08/02/2011

You being able to have a VBAC will depend on whether it is safe for you and baby. A lot of it will depend on why you had the c-section the first time. Definitely talk to your doctor and see what he thinks about the idea. If you are able to have a VBAC, I would definitely try that route.

I have to say that I completely understand feeling cheated out of a natural birthing experience. Our first child (our daughter) was born via emergency c-section as well. Like you, I was put to sleep, but I was put to sleep because they needed to get her out immediately and had no time to wait for a spinal to take effect (she was born at 34 weeks due to a placental abruption...they couldn't keep her heartbeat on the monitor and I was losing tons of blood). I was extremely depressed afterwards because of the situation (and having a preemie didn't help...one of the last things the surgeon said before they wheeled me to the OR -without my husband- was that there was a good chance our baby wouldn't make it...she did, but I still didn't see her for a day). However, because of the way my c-section was performed (I have a classical incision..meaning I am cut from my belly button down to just passed my pubic bone), I would never be allowed to attempt a VBAC. We became pregnant with our second child (our first son) when our daughter was about 14 months old. I did question if there was any way I could try a natural birth. That was a big NO. It took me a while, but I finally was able to be okay with it when I realized it was the safest thing for baby and me. And we just welcomed our 3rd child (another boy) on July 18, via another scheduled c-section and I was fine with it (our daughter is 7, first son is 5).

Also, something that helped me get passed feeling cheated and whatnot, was when I realized that if I hadn't had that emergency c-section, our daughter wouldn't be here and there was a good chance I wouldn't be either. I have those same thoughts any time I am feeling bad about the huge scar covering my stomach. If it wasn't there, neither would my daughter or myself be.

Sorry, got a little off track there :) Anyway, talk to your doctor and see what he feels is the safest route for you to go. Most people that have had a c-section, can safely attempt a VBAC, but each person is different. Try not to be too frustrated if you aren't able to, though. Remember, the most important thing is that you are safe and healthy and that your baby is safe and healthy..no matter how that comes to be. Good luck to you!

Melissa - posted on 08/01/2011

Speak with your doctors about the risks and benefits and then make an informed decision. You don't want to put anyones life in danger for the hope of an experience. In the end all that matters is tht momma and baby are healthy. Good luck, and hope things work out for ya :)

Jessica - posted on 08/01/2011

I would definitely discuss with your doctor the option of having a natural birth. With my first, I was induced at almost 41 weeks because he was getting very large. I was on so many pain killers and in labor for so long, I honestly don't remember most of it. I planned out a little better with my second and only had a slight epidural, just enough to take the edge off. After five minutes of pushing I had my daughter in my arms. There is simply nothing like natural child birth, so I would suggest trying to have one this time. However, there may be complications, so don't be too disappointed if it doesn't happen. Good luck!

Angela - posted on 08/01/2011

i would talk with your doctor, i know there can be some issues with women who have had a C-section then want to do a natural birth, but you should do what you thinks is best for you and your baby!

Amanda - posted on 08/01/2011

Well i reckon you should have a natural birth I did and it's different to what people actually tell you. Yeah sure you'll have contraction pains but it's not as bad as people tell you it is. I was in labour for 7 hours and at the end of it yeah sure you'll be tired but it's worth it.

Nadia - posted on 08/01/2011

I think you should talk to your doctor about what your options are for the safest delivery for you & the baby. That's ultimately what matters most. I understand how you feel b/c I went through a similar situation with my delivery. I'm hoping to be able to deliver my next baby vaginally(when I'm pregnant again lol). Good luck!!!