Making Plans for a VBAC

This week I met a lovely couple who desires to have a vaginal birth after c-section, a "VBAC". I was very impressed with how soberly the couple was approaching this decision. The couple had pulled the hospital medical records from the previous labor which ended in a c-section delivery. In reviewing the records, they discovered that the reasons given for to surgery did not match what was actually documented. They have now taken the time to interview physicians, midwives, and doulas to prepare for her second child's birth.
It is wonderful to see that this couple understands that this should not be simply an emotional decision. Making plans for a "VBAC" should include research and a clear understanding of the patient's past medical and labor history.

VBAC

Each year I have the priviledge of sharing with couples, the miraculous birth of their babies. Recently, I attended the labor and delivery of two babies born "VBAC". A "VBAC" is a vaginal birth after c-section. We are finding fewer physicians who will allow their patients to deliver vaginally after c-sections. Many times circumstances require surgery to ensure that both mom and baby are safe. Some couples feel that their previous c-sections may not have been necessary. Either way, women often have a desire to birth future babies without surgery. This often means spending time and energy to search for physicians who will give them a chance to deliver without surgery. Couples can be easily discouraged as some hospitals do not offer "VBAC" deliveries. Sometimes, a doctor is found only to discover that their insurance plan is not covered with that medical group. Also, sometimes the doctors who take "call" for a physician who does offer vaginal birth after cesearian will refuse to do the "VBAC". It is important that couples do the research to be certain that they are not "turned down" for the "VBAC" at the time of labor.

I applaud couples who presevere and find good, qualified physicians who will give them a chance to experience natural childbirth. First Birth Ministries has helped to prepare two such couples this year already.