When my partner and I attended our childbirth class, we largely dismissed the section on C-sections. We were set on experiencing a traditional, medicated vaginal birth, so everything else seemed irrelevant. That was until, after hours of labor and an epidural that was wearing off, my doctor walked in to discuss the need for a C-section. It turned out that we didn’t need much guidance on the matter; the medical team took over seamlessly. My partner played the stunned dad role with little instruction, while I found myself awkwardly navigating the discomfort of my situation.
Despite being thrust into a scenario we hadn’t anticipated, both my baby and I emerged from the surgery safely. The subsequent days proved to be more challenging than I had envisioned. If you’ve undergone a C-section, you’re acutely aware of the struggle involved in that first shower post-surgery. You understand the complexities of recovering from major surgery while grappling with a whirlwind of postpartum emotions and caring for a newborn. A C-section, like any surgical procedure, carries significant risks, and while it can be necessary, it’s not the ideal scenario when you want to focus on nurturing rather than being nurtured. Many women prefer to avoid that path if they can. What you might not be fully aware of, however, is what to expect when considering a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).
1. Expect Pushback from Medical Professionals
Before I even recognized that a VBAC was a possibility, my primary OB-GYN informed me that my next delivery would also require a C-section. I didn’t question her advice because she was, after all, the expert—an oversight on my part. It wasn’t until I saw another physician for a routine check-up that I learned about the possibility of a VBAC. He explained that since my previous C-section didn’t stem from a specific medical condition, pursuing a VBAC was a viable option. That insight was all it took to convince me.
Unfortunately, that was the only time I encountered a doctor who was fully supportive of my VBAC journey. I had to switch hospitals because my original facility didn’t support VBACs. At my new hospital, I met various doctors and midwives, and each visit came with the same cautionary message: “VBACs come with risks. Are you certain you don’t want another C-section?” Even when my water broke, the staff still advised a C-section. If a VBAC is essential to you, ensure your partner and medical team are aware of your wishes. Be prepared to advocate for your choice throughout the process.
2. Your Success Rate May Rely on Unexpected Factors
Doctors will evaluate clear indicators like your anatomy and the reason behind your initial C-section. However, I was surprised to discover that hospitals utilize a calculator that considers various seemingly unrelated factors to estimate the likelihood of a successful VBAC. This tool factors in elements such as your age, body mass index, and even race; for instance, statistics suggest that white women have higher success rates for VBACs compared to Hispanic women. The reasoning behind this disparity remains unclear.
Initially, medical professionals estimated my odds of a VBAC at 34 percent, likely believing that a 1 in 3 chance would discourage me. To my surprise, when they actually used the calculator, my true odds were closer to 53 percent. Statistics can provide insights into past VBAC outcomes, but they can’t predict your specific experience. Treat the calculator as one more piece of information in your decision-making journey.
3. Recovery is a Different Experience
This may seem obvious, but if a C-section is your only reference point, recovering from a VBAC will feel entirely new. After my C-section, which took place at noon, I didn’t manage to get out of bed until the following morning; it took that long for the epidural to wear off. When I finally got up, it was a painful shuffle to the shower, where my partner helped clean the surgical tape residue off my back. I could barely lift my legs to get into a traditional bathtub, and I ended up in a room with a walk-in shower.
In contrast, after my VBAC, I walked from the delivery room to my regular room less than two hours after giving birth. I didn’t require a catheter, nor did I need morphine and the accompanying annoying side effects. I wasn’t fearful of aggravating pain with every cough or laugh. I kept telling my partner, “I can’t believe how great I feel!” While every recovery journey is unique, in general, recovering from a VBAC won’t feel like recuperating from surgery because, well, it isn’t.
4. You Will Feel an Immense Sense of Accomplishment
Some may think I’m a bit eccentric, but my VBAC stands as one of my proudest achievements, right alongside my college degree. After enduring months of being told why I shouldn’t attempt it, I felt a tremendous sense of pride in my decision. I often envisioned sending “take that” letters to all the medical professionals who advised me to simply opt for surgery.
Of course, pursuing a VBAC isn’t suitable for everyone. I’m not a medical professional and wouldn’t advise anyone to proceed without their doctor’s approval. I’m just a mom who wanted to welcome my child on my own terms and hopes to encourage others that they can do the same. For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this helpful resource or check out these tips on artificial insemination.
Summary
Navigating the journey of a VBAC can be filled with challenges and triumphs. It’s essential to advocate for your desires, understand the factors that influence your success, and prepare for a different recovery experience. Ultimately, achieving a VBAC can bring a profound sense of accomplishment and empowerment.