I hear so many women who are pregnant, who have had a cesarean, ask about VBACs, and get told that they are not acceptable candidates. I think to myself, why not? Then I realize that it is the provider that has the problem, and not the mothers. I had a wonderful midwife, who LISTENED to me, and I realize that she was ahead of her time.
In July of 1987, I had the pleasure of having a very successful VBAC, after 2 c-sections. To think, that after talking with several obstetricians and being told, once a cesarean always a cesarean, someone was giving me the chance to deliver a baby, naturally. No medical interventions, no drugs, no sterile room with a drape between me and my baby. I had just a quiet room, family and friends of my choice present, my support staff, my midwife, and me and my baby. This is what I had always dreamed of and now the chance was mine, I took the leap.
I was in labor for two days before I went to the hospital, however my support staff kept telling me, no not yet. My midwife visited, checked me, and agreed. I didn’t understand, but I listened, and stayed home, and labored. I walked, talked, ate, bathed, slept and was relaxed, all in my home with my family and friends around me. I woke up at a little past midnight on the 25th of July, and my contractions were harder, stronger, and closer together than before and they said it’s time. I showered, and dressed, with assistance, and headed to the hospital, with my team.
My midwife met me there, and they took the time to get me comfortable in my room, hooking me up to the monitors, then she checked me. I was at 6CM and in full labor. I labored for a few more hours, with no interventions, and finally felt that urge to push. I told them it was time. They listened. My midwife checked me and yes, I was fully dilated, baby was crowning, and I could push. At 11:25AM, my son was born, and a VBAC was achieved. Successfully!
To think that, 26 years ago today, I could have a successful VBA2C, and yet today, most obstetricians are saying that it should not be allowed. It is too dangerous for women to have a VBAC, let alone after 2 babies. Well, my 26 year old son and I are here to tell you it is possible.
My recommendation: Do your research, find a doctor or midwife who is willing to LISTEN to YOU, the patient, and your body.
Pictured below is Mary with her VBA3C "baby," at his graduation. Maybe we will get to feature his story soon!