VBAC question...

Forgive me, because I do not know, but what is the whole controversy/drama surrounding VBACS? Is it because it's just easier for the doctor or is there a true medical risk to having a baby vaginally after a c-section? If we have a second, I would like to try to have the baby vaginally.

Thanks!

Re: VBAC question...

With a VBAC you run a risk (although small) that you could rupture your uterus.
This can result in death for mom and DC, if not detected quickly enough.

I think its like a 1% chance.

I think Beth (bxgell) s friend had one and can not have anymore children due to her complications.

Re: VBAC question...

Well when I was working in Med mal - the risk is that if you rupture or partially rupture - you could have:

dead baby
brain damaged baby
hysterectomy
amongst other possible complications and issues.

Yes it is a real risk - the percentage of risk DOES vary according to how long you had between pregnancies, how well you healed, as well as WHY you needed a csection in the 1st place.

I can tell you if you do a search you WILL find several people who either ruptured or have a friend or family member who did. The risk might not be very high but unfortunately there are significant problems IF you are one of those unlucky few.

Etd to add it IS higher than 1%- but again the percentage varies depending on your individual medical history. There ARE OBs out there who are willing to consider VBACS if certain situations are good. But being a good candidate does not = no risks. I know for some (and I was one probably b.c I have seen what happens when things go bad) was not willing to take those chances even if they were in my favor.

Message edited 7/6/2010 12:53:04 PM.

Re: VBAC question...

there is a (small) risk of uterine rupture which could be deadly for mom AND baby

One of our mommies on here had that happen, she and the baby were fine but it is not a risk that I personally would take

also, certain things make you a better candidate for a VBAC (did you dialate? Was there fetal distress? did the baby descend the first time. etc)

Re: VBAC question...

Yes, uterine rupture is a real risk and I honestly was too scared of that to not have another c-section. My dr. would have allowed me to try, but it wasn't worth it in my opinion. Also, a lot of dr.s won't let you even try. You have to find one that will let you.

Re: VBAC question...

Thanks for answering the questions. I don't know if I am willing to take that risk one day - it just makes me sad if I won't have the chance, all the same. I had a c-section a week before my due date because I had very low amniotic fluid - so, who knows if the baby would have descended, I would have dilated, etc.

Re: VBAC question...

I had a csection with my first because she was brech. My doctor said I could try for a VBAC. It's totally up to me. I am torn. I know there is a slight risk for uterine rupture but at the same time. I know this is our last baby and will be the last time we will be able to try and have a baby without a cesection. Honestly, I'd rather have my doctor tell me "No, you need a csection that leave the choice up to me."