Hi,

I am newly pregnant with my second child! I had a section with my 1st and absolutely do not want to go through that again.

Any advice about advocating for VBAC birth with pouch to OB-GYN?

How do you find a doula who is familiar with laboring with a pouch?

I just delivered my first daughter vaginally. I originally insisted that i have a c-sec because I didn't want to risk tearing my perineal muscles and risk incontinence. My obgyn eventually convinced me that a c-sec is major surgery and there is the potential to cut into bowel, especially because of scar tissue and things not looking the way they should after 2 major abd surgeries. I am currently in nursing school and just witnessed a c-sec. After seeing a c-sec up close and personal, I am sooooo glad I had a vaginal birth.
For me, the vaginal birth was easy- I did have an epidural so I didn't feel much pain- Pushing is hard work, but totally worth it. I had a very small tear but my doc said it is nothing to worry. I was up and walking around 2 hours after I had my daughter and back to school the next week.

Wow! That is a huge inspiration to me that you did so amazingly well. Thank you!

I am planning on having my second son vaginally. I also thought c-section was the only way to go but when I was 6 months preg with my 1st son I sat & talked with my colorectal surgeon. He strongly agreed with my OB that vaginal is always the best way, if possible. My delivery was quick & easy. I felt great. I am hoping the second is that easy
Good luck with your decision!

I actually did have a VBAC, but it was way back in 1987, and before my j-pouch surgery. Back then, VBAC was not discouraged, and was considered safe. Things have changed since then, since c-sections have become more and more safe, for both the mother and the baby. It has come full circle now, and the feeling for some OBs is that the risk of uterine rupture during VBAC is now greater than the risks from c-section. Uterine rupture can be catastrophic for both the mom and baby, so definitely something to consider when you are weighing your options.

My first son was less than 8 pounds, but a c-section was necessary due to a frank breech presentation. Two years later I opted for a VBAC with my second son. He had a normal presentation, but was nearly 10 pounds, with a 15 inch head. After an exhausting 2 hours of pushing, the OB decided that outlet forceps were necessary. I wound up with 4th degree lacerations (completely through the rectum). Fortunately, I had an excellent OB, who did a great repair and I am continent more than 20 years later. Time will tell when I become an old lady if the same is true. At least I did not have the rare complication of uterine rupture...

According to the Mayo Clinic, 20-40% of VBAC attempts result in a c-section (unsuccessful). If you are OK with those odds, then VBAC may be a good choice for you. Also, I would not recommend you consider VBAC in any facility without emergency c-section capabilities. That would rule out many birthing centers and home births. Get informed and you can make choices that work for you.
Mayo Clinic VBAC Article

Good luck.

Jan

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Jan Dollar,