Thinking about UC for a VBA2C

[Xerxella]

So after 2 sad C's, I'm thinking about staying home next time. At 2 C's no CNM would support a home birth, so it's either a DEM or UC. I'm not even pregnant yet, but I'm a researcher and I want to get as much information as possible if I decide to go it alone. The only mainstream HCP in the Chicago area who will take on a VBA2C is University of Illinois, Chicago. My instincts right now are to do my prenatal care with them and then stay home for the birth. Then if all goes wrong, I can go there and "start again" and still try for a vaginal birth.

I guess I'm very scared about the whole thing. My 1st VBAC was a 37 weeker with concerns. The induction didn't work so a C. (He was fine.) The 2nd time, I did everything "right." I used midwives in a very VBAC friendly hospital (West Suburban). All natural, etc, etc, etc. Essentially after hours and hours of excrutiating labor, the baby never really dropped. I'm no wuss, but this was horrible agonizing pain for hours, I'm not kidding, horrible. I finally called for an epidural. The general concensus is that the baby was looking right and never turned her head.

I guess I just really don't know what to do. I think with some good midwifery and proper positioning, we could have encouraged a baby to turn and had a natural birth. I think to myself, these problems are not likely to happen again. I think I can help myself best next time if I have the knowledge.

So, overall, I'm looking for some good books on birth. And, some encouragement that it won't be like that again. (Or, maybe the honest answer that it will and I need to be prepared.)

TIA

[lovestolearn]

I imagine that if you are well-versed in unhindered birth physiology, you will be more relaxed and in touch with your self and your baby. as well, focusing on your inner experience may be the key to the birth you want--rather than the "right" midwife (though a really good midwife could help you with this!) I would recommend Sara Buckley's book Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering to address both areas: http://www.sarahjbuckley.com/html/ge...-mothering.htm

[Banana731]

Ina May Gaskin's books are filled with info and uplifting stories. Heart and Hands is very accessible midwifery text. You can get all sorts of birthing supplies easily on-line, including dopplers. I would think too, that in a place like IL, you might able to find some underground MW if you do some digging. Lots of googling helps, so do the awesome women on the UC board!

I did get prenatal care, but chose to UC, as I felt it was the best way to get the VBAC I wanted. I am glad to have done so, it was wonderful healing experience. We prepared and took all the precautions that WE felt we needed to have our homebirth. You know the funniest thing, was that I was still a little nervous about being on our own for it, but once I was really in labor it was like that final piece clicked, and everything was right for us. It felt right. I think there is value in having strong supportive female energy around you in birth. Also, I really believe in wisdom of midwives, but if you can't have one, and hb feels right to you then go for it. If it stops feeling right, then there is no rule saying you can't change your mind. People UC for lots of different reasons, and you will find support here no matter what yours are, and even if you change your mind! Good luck to you on your journey!

[ACsMom]

I loved the book "Open Season" by Nancy Cohen. Lots of information and healing stories in that. "The VBAC Experience" by Lynn Baptisti Richards.

Neither are specific to UC, but are specific to VBAC and non-intervention in birth. Both are very empowering.

Marilyn Moran writes about privacy and sexuality in birth and feels it should be an intimate experience between husband and wife.