VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

I had my first LO in 2010. After several hours of failing labor, LO went into distress and had to be delivered via emergency C Section. The recovery wasn't pleasant, but the actual C Section was not a bad experience at all.

This time around, I was convinced I'd do a VBAC, as this will be my second and last baby, and I've always wanted to have that vaginal birth experience.

That said, I'm beginning to think a scheduled C-section is the way to go. For starters, we moved since LO was born, but kept the same doctor. The hospital is over an hour's drive, so going into labor and getting to the hospital, getting LO settled at a neighbor's is a lot more stressful than saying "mommy is going to the hospital now to come home with a brother or sister for you"

Also, the doctor told me (and I have heard from friends) that a scheudled C-section has far less of a painful recovery than one followed by a failed labor. And, if I go through natural, but then fail again, the recovery from the C-section could be 10x worse than the first time.

The other bonus....a scheduled cscection will allow the dr. to tie my tubes while he's in there....and I never have to think about birth control again.

With all these benefits of the csection....I still feel torn.

I have to let him know my final answer by my next appointment so he can schedule me a spot and sign the papers for the tube tying.....in my situation what would you do?

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

My situation is somewhat similar as far as how the first L&D went down.

However, I've always been sure that I want a repeat c. I just can't deal with the possibility that it might end up like that again.

My sister has had 3 c-sections and did say that scheduled ones were much easier recoveries.

It's such a personal decision though that you really need to go with your gut. Have you talked to your DH about it? Does he have an opinion?

Good luck!

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

I am pro-vbac all the way...for tons of reasons like labor hormones that are good for your body & baby, baby entering less traumatically if possible, better chance for vbac next time (if there is a next time), usually better chances with BFing, helping your uterus contract after, not major surgery!, etc).

I personally feel when baby is ready to come, baby will come...and the least amount of interventions the more happy & healthy you and baby are...but this is JMO. GL either way!

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

Pro-VBAC here I never known a woman to regret a VBAC but MANY who regret giving in to a C-section so easily.

Im attempting a VBA2C , the key is finding a supportive pro-VBAC Ob which is rare now in days but there are a handful in LI.

Maybe book the c-section for 41+ weeks and give your body a chance to go into labor? Worst case scenario you have another C-section but you can have peace knowing you gave it a shot.

VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

I had a c section after a trying for a Vaginal birth the first time. When I have DC#2 I am not even thinking twice about it. Scheduled Csection for me.

I had an amazing recovery after my csection so I do not buy into your Drs theory. Each CS and recovery will be different so I do not expect my next one to be amazing but I also think it won't be horrible since I know what to expect.

My Dr is all about letting me choose and told me so when we spoke in the hospital after my first.

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

My C-section was scheduled and I didn't labor at all and in all honesty..........the recovery was awful. Awful. There was nothing easy or pleasant about it. But that being said, everyone has a different experience.

I am due in 2 days with #2 and I am praying to go into labor on my own so I can VBAC. I was (and still am) very upset about having had a C-section and if I can, I want to avoid it. I have until Monday at the latest to delver on my own so fingers are crossed I get my wish this time around and deliver vaginally.

Good luck with your decision.

Message edited 3/13/2013 5:14:15 PM.

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

Its a very personal decision. I am going with a c-section after beating myself up a bit about not going vbac. I am just in fear of having to do it all over again. Also, its the fear of the unknown to me. I didn't go into labor naturally, my water was leaking and had to be induced and never progressed. Good luck whatever you decide

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

Just so you know I was a failed induction and labor had a c section and had an awesome recovery!

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

Message edited 3/14/2013 11:43:22 AM.

Re: VBAC vs. scheduled C-Section- not sure which way to turn

I would LOVE to VBAC. LOVE. I wanted a vaginal SO bad but I never progressed past 3cm. My water broke on it's own and I labored 30 hours. My doctor knew I wanted a vaginal so he let me go as long as possible before risk of infection.

I was an unplanned C-section and it ended up being a good experience. I was conscious during the whole surgery, I got to see DD right away, etc. It wasn't what I wanted but it was a good memory that I will always cherish.

That being said, I have tossed VBAC around since finding out I am pregnant with #2. My doctor said he will do whatever I want to do. He explained the known risks.

Even though it pains me that I will not experience a vaginal birth, I am leaning towards a repeat/scheduled c-section. The reason is that I had a good experience with my first and I want that again. We were able to get pictures of DD actually being born. We have a picture of her hand wrapped around my OB's finger STILL in my uterus. It's graphic but it's beautiful. I WANT that again. I know there's still a chance that I won't get that, but I won't have that chance if I end up with an emergency C. I have pictures of our first kiss while I'm being stitched up and DH holding her for the first time. I want that again.

It's a VERY personal decision. And I think it also depends on WHY you ended up with a C in the first place. Like I said before, I am pro-VBAC. I WANT a vaginal birth, but my fear of the unknown and the risks out weigh that want.