[trimestersdoula]

Am I alone in this? I was going to try and fight to have my vbac but I just found out it is impossible for me.<br><br>
I will be scheduled for a c/s at 37 weeks <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/greensad.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="greensad"><br><br>
I found out a good friend of mine, who is a midwife will be opening her practice in June so I was wanting to transfer care to her. She told me that even though she personally didn't think I needed medication for my BP, that since an OB put me on it, she cannot take me off of it, nor can she take me on as a patient while I am on it. I then talked to her about vbac'ing with another obstetrician since mine is not letting me do it and she told me that I should most definitely get a second/third opinion......that was until I explained why my OB didn't want to let me vbac (because of my recent gall bladder surgery) and she told me that I was basically screwed. No OB can legally let me deliver by vbac because of the-less-than-a-year-old abdominal incision.<br><br>
I am sort of upset that I will never get to have a baby that natural way.<img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/greensad.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="greensad">

 

[momtoafireteam]

<img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="/img/vbsmilies/smilies/hug2.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="Hug2"> mama. I dont know if I am here yet, still waiting and seeing. I too am a VBAC'r and at the moment I am just trying to make the decision about whether to go ahead with it or not. I failed my last VBAC attempt and the pain of failing was so life crushingly horrific that I am seriously considering electing for a RCS and having control.<br><br>
Sorry you are feeling so down about it, its a terrible feeling to be out of control of your options. I hope that you find some peace in the next 11 ish weeks.

 

[Dahlea]

I'm sorry <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/greensad.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="greensad"> the cards are really stacked against you. At least<br>
you have tried your hardest, though I'm sure that's not much consolation right now. Hang in there *big hugs*

 

[BlackSheepPDX]

I"m sorry.<br><br>
Someone in the main "I'm pregnant" thread posted a while back about finding an OB who does really progressive c-sections....no general anaethesia, low lighting in the OR, immediate skin to skin contact with the baby, and other modifications to make the experience less harsh and more "natural."<br><br>
I know it's hard to "embrace" a c-section, but I think it is possible to go into it with the same ownership of your "birth plan" that you might for a vaginal birth. Perhaps you can take the attitude of making the best of this and getting as much of what you want as possible.

 

[Parker'smommy]

Hugs, momma. It's hard.<br><br>
I was trying to do a vbac with my 2nd pregnany but she went overdue <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/greensad.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="greensad"> They won't induce you when you are doing a vbac, and wouldn't let me go over a week overdue, and a lot of other drama that would take pages to write, but I had to have a repeat csection.<br><br>
I am having a csection again this time and am not even thinking about trying a vbac. My pregnancy is high risk, and after 3 losses, so I'm just not "there", kwim?<br><br>
Anyways, I'm trying to get the best csection possible and researching cesearan birth plans. I think it will make the difference to me and baby's recovery.<br><br>
Can I ask why you are scheduling so early...37 weeks? My Perintologist said that I'd have to do a Amnio to check baby's lungs if we tried to deliver before 39 weeks. Just curious on your situation.<br><br>
Good luck!

 

[umsami]

In a way, I think you're lucky in knowing that this is what you will do--so you can plan on the best experience possible for both you and your little one.<br><br>
I think Ricki Lake's book talks about how to make a planned c-section a better experience. I took it out from the library a few weeks ago. A lot of the things were mentioned by BlackSheep.<br><br>
Have you tried getting your OB to agree to hold off until you start labor on your own rather than automatically section at 37 weeks? At least that way you know that baby is ready to come out on his/her own.<br><br>
I've seen a few good c-section birth plans here on MDC. You might want to search some past threads. <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile"> You can still make this a good birth experience for you and your little one. Don't worry <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile">

 

[darkblue0729]

*DDC crashing*<br><img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/hug.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="hug"> I'm so sorry mama. I am attempting a HBAC this go around, so my heart really goes out to you...I just hope and pray that you have a lovely birth experience with this babe, even if it is not the one you had initially dreamed of. I definitely suggest trying to find a way to make your c/s as comfortable for you and the baby as possible, and I wish you all the luck and blessings in the world!

 

[Suka]

Im scheduled for a section at 37 weeks as well. This will be my first child and Im not disappointed at having a section at all. But huggs to all who where hoping for a vbac

 

[umsami]

trimesterdoula...I've been thinking about what your OB told you, and I'm sorry it doesn't fly. There are no laws on the books saying that you can't have a VBAC if you have a previous abdominal surgery that's less than one year old. No laws anywhere in the country. I'd be surprised if it was hospital policy, but even then, one could try and appeal. A gallbladder scar (even if it was open, and let's be honest most these days are lap) is no where remotely related to the location of a c-section scar. One has absolutely nothing to do with the other. It's not like your gallbladder scars would have any affect on your previous c-section scar, which is the concern with VBACs, right??? Even the location of a gallbladder scar isn't likely to cause adhesions in the c-section area. So, I really don't get why. It's not like laboring naturally is putting any additional stress in the gallbladder area. It doesn't make sense at all.<br><br>
I honestly think you need to keep trying. The logic does not make sense. The more I think about it, the more I think that your OB is telling you this because s/he does not like to do VBACs.<br><br>
Suka--I'm glad you're happy, but sad that you have to have a c-section especially for your first and so early. I hope you can at least push your surgeon back a week or two. A lot of recent studies have shown that not all babies are ready to come out at 37 weeks--and that inductions/c-sections should be scheduled later whenever possible. (I realize it's not always possible with pre-eclampsia, etc.)

 

[AustinMom]

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<div>Originally Posted by <strong>umsami</strong> <a href="/community/forum/post/15440785"><img alt="View Post" class="inlineimg" src="/community/img/forum/go_quote.gif" style="border:0px solid;"></a></div>
<div style="font-style:italic;">trimesterdoula...I've been thinking about what your OB told you, and I'm sorry it doesn't fly. There are no laws on the books saying that you can't have a VBAC if you have a previous abdominal surgery that's less than one year old. No laws anywhere in the country. I'd be surprised if it was hospital policy, but even then, one could try and appeal. A gallbladder scar (even if it was open, and let's be honest most these days are lap) is no where remotely related to the location of a c-section scar. One has absolutely nothing to do with the other. It's not like your gallbladder scars would have any affect on your previous c-section scar, which is the concern with VBACs, right??? Even the location of a gallbladder scar isn't likely to cause adhesions in the c-section area. So, I really don't get why. It's not like laboring naturally is putting any additional stress in the gallbladder area. It doesn't make sense at all.<br><br>
I honestly think you need to keep trying. The logic does not make sense. The more I think about it, the more I think that your OB is telling you this because s/he does not like to do VBACs.<br><br>
Suka--I'm glad you're happy, but sad that you have to have a c-section especially for your first and so early. I hope you can at least push your surgeon back a week or two. A lot of recent studies have shown that not all babies are ready to come out at 37 weeks--and that inductions/c-sections should be scheduled later whenever possible. (I realize it's not always possible with pre-eclampsia, etc.)</div>
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I thought the same thing when I read this. The scarry thing about scars and birthing, are scars on the uterus due to uterine rupture fear. I've never ever heard of other operative scars 'disqualifying' a VBAC mom. That doesn't make sense. I would surely look into it more. Talk with more OBs and MW and get logical REASONS for their statements. I hear that it's 12 months between BIRTHS that is ideal for VBAC, so that means you have a CS, get prego 3 mo PP, and then VBAC, and that's still ok. Yeah, I'd get more answers and info.<br><br>
Also, you may not need to schedule anything. As long as BP is good, you can wait for labor. Now, if it gets crazy, then yes, you need a CS ASAP. That's not likely to happen right on 37 weeks. It may happen at 40, or even at 35 weeks. I'd get more info on that too. At least you can make sure baby is ready for birth and have less NICU/Newborn issues.<br><br>
You still have rights, even if you health is not ideal.<br><br><img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile"> Happy Birthing

 

[trimestersdoula]

Thanks all. What you all are saying is what I was thinking as well. Unfortunately both the OB and midwife (who dislike each other) have told me there is no one here that can do this. I am still not sure of their reasoning behind it, but honestly, I am just so sick of fighting it. My gallbladder surgery was supposed to be laprascopic but they ended up having to open me right up. I have a 7 inch scar just below my ribs because of it.

 

[umsami]

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<div>Originally Posted by <strong>trimestersdoula</strong> <a href="/community/forum/post/15447961"><img alt="View Post" class="inlineimg" src="/community/img/forum/go_quote.gif" style="border:0px solid;"></a></div>
<div style="font-style:italic;">Thanks all. What you all are saying is what I was thinking as well. Unfortunately both the OB and midwife (who dislike each other) have told me there is no one here that can do this. I am still not sure of their reasoning behind it, but honestly, I am just so sick of fighting it. My gallbladder surgery was supposed to be laprascopic but they ended up having to open me right up. I have a 7 inch scar just below my ribs because of it.</div>
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Have you thought about asking in the Finding Your Tribe forums for a different OB recommendation?? <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile">

 

[meredyth0315]

Having already had 3 c/s, I'm prepared for a 4th, but I'm very lucky that my ob is on board for a vbac. I tried for a HBA2C with my last, but he was transverse, and I'm not comfortable with a version and the prosepct of an emergency situation, so we made our plan and it was awesome. I also had a mw who lost all faith in my body and it affected my views greatly. I can look at it a little bit more objectively and can understand not wanting to risk her license, but still, things could've been handled differently. I did have many feelings of failure to be honest afterwards, but in time it passed and I'm happy I that when I switched providers at 36 wks it all felt so natural. With Bella, I'm at peace with it all, I just know all will be well. This is my last and I want to have the peace and having been through 3 prior, I know what to expect and know how to make the most of it. I've been quite paranoid also having had a loss, so that does play a part in my feelings. And I completely understand your point of not ever having a *normal* birth. But my births are mine, not all traumatic, and the best I could've done at the time. If you ever want to talk, please pm me and sending you lots of love & peace <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="/img/vbsmilies/smilies/hug2.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="Hug2">

 

[MyFillingQuiver]

For my last birth, I was a VBA2C. I had the 2nd section purely because I was unable to find a provider (well..with my limited understanding and searching at the time) to "allow" me a VBAC. So, instead, I had a completely unecessary repeat section that caused me a very serious post surgical intrauterine infection...nearly cost me my life and my nursing relationship with my baby.<br><br>
Anyway, I had my tubes tied at that time, due largely in part to me believing 1) I had to have all my babies out of a scar, even though I had my first 2 vaginally without issue, and 2) that I could only have "so many" c-sections..and I was at risk for future infections because of the last one.<br><br>
Hindsight is ALWAYS 20/20..and every circumstance is different. However, the days and nights of anguish that followed my allowing to be cut open again were horrific. The regret over the TL, and the PTLS was too much to take.<br><br>
Finally, a few years later, I had a TR. When I had it, I had it done with the idea that if I had to have my babies unassisted at home, that's what I'd do. Fortunately, I became pregnant the month after the TR. Another fortunate thing was that I found a provider to care for me even though I was a VBA2C. I didn't NEED to be a VBA2C, and I should have exhausted my own efforts to be only a VBAC, but I was also tired of looking and fighting..so I understand!<br><br>
All this to say that I totally get being tired of fighting for the right to birth vaginally..that is SO Wrong, and should never be the case! However, it is..and with retrospect, it's worth the fight in most cases. I also had my VBA2C just 9 months AFTER a TR surgery. <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile"><br><br>
Now I'm having my second VBA2C (and I do not doubt 1 bit it'll be successful) at home, with a MW, just 14/15 months after my 1st VBA2C, and right about 2 years after a TR.<br><br>
It CAN be done. I support your decision to go the way you see fit, but know that regret is hard to live with. I pray that I don't see anyone have a c-section at 37 week..or 38...or even early 39, unless it is highly medically necessary. I had my 2nd at 38, and she was 8 lbs, and still suffered jaundice and transitional breathing issues-clearly not ready. I second the pp suggestion to post in Finding your tribe and possibly the VBAC section to find a provider.<br><br>
Blessings to you!<br><br>
Edited to add: I wanted to make sure this post doesn't sound too argumentative or anything..as I didn't intend it that way. I just lacked a lot of support for a VBAC choice, and I find it very valuable now. However, this is YOUR thread looking for support for your choice/situation, and I want to be of support to you. Blessings!

 

[justmeandfamily]

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<div>Originally Posted by <strong>meredyth0315</strong> <a href="/community/forum/post/15450170"><img alt="View Post" class="inlineimg" src="/community/img/forum/go_quote.gif" style="border:0px solid;"></a></div>
<div style="font-style:italic;">Having already had 3 c/s, I'm prepared for a 4th, ....... I tried for a HBA2C with my last, but he was transverse, and I'm not comfortable with a version and the prosepct of an emergency situation, so we made our plan and it was awesome.</div>
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This is me too! I am on my 4th and will have a c/section again. I really wanted to "try" for vaginal delivery, yet my little guy was laying transverse<img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/irked.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="irked"> I also had a history of my water breaking before any contractions and I started to fear with him being sideways and my water breaking that the umbilical cord would sweep out with the water and that is a whole world of trouble!<br><br>
So far the US is showing that this little one is transverse too. I know it is still early but the fear of that is still there.<br><br>
On a lighter note my last C/section was much better because I took charge and made sure that I got what I wanted, and when I whimped out my husband stood up <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile"><br>
My one added on plan this time is to wait longer, I think my lil guy could have cooked more last time.<br><br><br>
Good luck to us all!<br>
Julie<br><br>
Edited to add..... Thank you for posting this!

 

[momtoafireteam]

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<div>Originally Posted by <strong>trimestersdoula</strong> <a href="/community/forum/post/15447961"><img alt="View Post" class="inlineimg" src="/community/img/forum/go_quote.gif" style="border:0px solid;"></a></div>
<div style="font-style:italic;">honestly, I am just so sick of fighting it.</div>
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And you know what? That is a TOTALLY valid and logical reason to accept a c/s and move forward.<br><br>
My last pregnancy was 8 long months of "fighting". At least 10 OB's, driving HOURS interstate to find Dr's, arguing with everyone, sitting up until midnight researching and summarizing hundreds of studies and poring over books.<br><br>
The VBAC failed anyway, and now when I think back to my pregnancy with her, the most overwhelming memory I have is....conflict. Anger. Rage. Frustration. Confusion. And ultimately, failure.<br><br>
Some women adore a good hard fight to the death and it doesnt affect them. Others (me, this time around) just want to enjoy my pregnancy and birth. If the most enjoyment is earned by my "giving up" and scheduling a c/s, and that brings me THE MOST peace (not total peace, just more peace than the alternative) then I will do it. And you should to.<br><br>
I hope you find the most peace in whatever decision you make, Mama. <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="/img/vbsmilies/smilies/hug2.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="Hug2">

 

[meredyth0315]

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<div>Originally Posted by <strong>momtoafireteam</strong> <a href="/community/forum/post/15453284"><img alt="View Post" class="inlineimg" src="/community/img/forum/go_quote.gif" style="border:0px solid;"></a></div>
<div style="font-style:italic;">And you know what? That is a TOTALLY valid and logical reason to accept a c/s and move forward.<br><br>
My last pregnancy was 8 long months of "fighting". At least 10 OB's, driving HOURS interstate to find Dr's, arguing with everyone, sitting up until midnight researching and summarizing hundreds of studies and poring over books.<br><br>
The VBAC failed anyway, and now when I think back to my pregnancy with her, the most overwhelming memory I have is....conflict. Anger. Rage. Frustration. Confusion. And ultimately, failure.<br><br>
Some women adore a good hard fight to the death and it doesnt affect them. Others (me, this time around) just want to enjoy my pregnancy and birth. If the most enjoyment is earned by my "giving up" and scheduling a c/s, and that brings me THE MOST peace (not total peace, just more peace than the alternative) then I will do it. And you should to.<br><br>
I hope you find the most peace in whatever decision you make, Mama. <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="/img/vbsmilies/smilies/hug2.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="Hug2"></div>
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You know I was just reading this shaking my head saying yep, did that, yep felt that! My last pg was so tough emotionally coming off a loss and then being so gung ho for vba2c, I lost sight of the fact that I needed to actually enjoy the pg. That is my biggest regret. It's nice to hear I'm not the only one, so thanks <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/smile.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="smile">