Birth after c-section

[bigpinkcat]

Can you give birth naturally after a caesarean?

Research on the internet seems to show ther is only a 50% chance of a vaginal delivery after previously having a c-section. I wondered if anyone has any first hand experience on the subject?

[woofgang]

as no one seems to be answering, I wonder if you have seen this site?

http://www.vbac.com/

[ineedahobby]

Hi cat

My first daughter was born by c section and my second daughter was born the good old fashioned way. Basically the obs doc gave me the option, he said you've already had a section so if you want we can just book you in for another one, cut through the same scar and bobs your uncle, or you can opt for natural birth. I opted for natural and there were no complications whatsoever. They did however keep a very close eye on the previous c section scar during the natural birth because the skin there was obviously weaker than it once was. hope this helps.

[jake-the-peg]

My daughter was born naturally 17 months after my son was born via an emergency caesarean.

My wife didn't have any complications.

Don't know how happy they'd be if you wanted a home birth though

[Hgrove]

I have three friends who had a c section for their first child. Two had vbac for their second child, third one had an emergency c section. Have you thought of joining the nct, they have article on their newsletter about vbac, and possibly their birth preparation classes cover this subject. I doubt the NHS would support you if you wanted a home birth; see my other posting re. independent midwives.

[bigpinkcat]

Thankyou all for your responses - much appreciated x

[mimififi]

I think it does make a difference as to the reason behind the first section. If it was a breech or a pre-emclampsia thing, then maybe, but if it was a 'getting stuck' or due to an induction, your chances are reduced. Inductions so often lead to a section because one of the side effects of induction drugs is fetal distress.....

There are lots of different factors to be considered including the time since your last section, however it isn't impossible and you shouldn't be bullied into accepting a planned section just because you had one last time. Make it clear that you want to try for a VBAC, but keep your mind open, and accept that it might not work out like that. At the end of the day, it is your safety and the safety of babes which is paramount and not necessarily the birth experience.

However, after having an emergency section with my 5th, I am so grateful for the natural births I had with the some of the others, and I sympathise with you wanting to try for the natural. Key is to keep upright and as active as possible.

good luck.