My first baby arrived in the most natural way possible, with no medication and minimal medical intervention. And let me tell you, it was tough as nails. My second child, however, came into the world via an emergency C-section. That experience was challenging, but not for the reasons you might think. I felt robbed of the enchanting experience of childbirth because I was so heavily medicated that I couldn’t see, feel, or truly grasp what was happening. I brought home a perfectly healthy and stunning baby, and I fell head over heels in love.
I completely reject any shame associated with different birthing methods—after all, every mother’s journey is unique. Nonetheless, the C-section left a lingering ache in my heart. So, for my last pregnancy, I’ve decided to pursue a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).
Now, let’s be clear: VBAC isn’t a guaranteed path. Risks do exist, and if complications arise, I may still have to opt for a C-section. According to Web MD, women attempting VBACs first undergo TOLAC (trial of labor after C-section), which is like a rehearsal before the big show. If everything goes smoothly during labor, I can move on to the pushing phase. However, it’s worth noting that about 40% of women who plan for a VBAC still end up with a C-section.
The primary concern that warrants close monitoring during a VBAC is the dreaded uterine rupture, which sounds as terrifying as it is. The scar tissue from a previous C-section can, in rare instances, rupture, posing serious risks to both mother and baby. Thankfully, if a woman has a low transverse scar—a standard practice in the U.S.—the likelihood of this happening is very low. In fact, less than 1 in 100 women face a serious risk of rupture.
The symptoms of a uterine rupture are particularly alarming, as they can’t be predicted before they occur. You won’t know you’re experiencing a rupture until it’s already happening. According to Healthline, some signs to watch for include:
- Excessive vaginal bleeding
- Sudden pain between contractions
- Slower or less intense contractions
- Abnormal abdominal pain or soreness
- Recession of the baby’s head into the birth canal
- Bulging under the pubic bone
- Sudden pain at the site of a previous surgery scar
- Loss of uterine muscle tone
- Rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and shock in the mother
- Abnormal heart rate in the baby
- Failure of labor to progress naturally
Despite these risks, which are rare but undeniably scary, I’m choosing to pursue a VBAC with the full support of my OB. I trust her completely, and she believes I’m an excellent candidate for this journey. I have faith that she will recognize if my baby or I start to face difficulties and will intervene as necessary. This flexibility is key with any birthing method—sometimes, interventions are essential, and I’m totally open to that.
I find strength and inspiration in the success stories shared on platforms like The VBAC Link and Birth Without Fear Blog, where women recount their remarkable journeys of overcoming obstacles to bring their babies into the world, despite their fears or previous negative experiences. Reading these stories normalizes the idea of a VBAC for me and makes it feel achievable.
Every mother has a complex tapestry of emotions surrounding her childbirth experiences. For many women, a C-section is exactly what they desire or need, and that’s perfectly fine. But for me, this time around, my heart is leading me toward a more natural birth experience.
So, with a deep breath, my OB and I have crafted a plan along with an emergency backup plan. I’ll step into that delivery room with my husband by my side, supporting me as I strive to bring our child into the world. I genuinely feel this is the best path for both my baby and me this time.
For more information about pregnancy and home insemination, check out resources like Medical News Today’s fertility section. If you’re interested in at-home options, you might find Make a Mom’s artificial insemination kit incredibly helpful. And don’t forget to read our post about privacy policies on Intracervical Insemination for more insights.
In summary, I’m choosing to attempt a VBAC for my last pregnancy, motivated by the desire for a more natural experience and buoyed by the support of my healthcare team and the stories of other women who have walked this path.