How to best prepare for a VBAC even before pregnant?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Eileen Colegrove on April 27, 2010 at 3:04pm

Well with my last I was preparing for a VBAC, while I wasn't worried about the outer scar I was worried about my uterus. The only thought that came to mind was how to exercise the uterine muscle. I realized that when you orgasm the uterus contracts, what a great way to exercise and strengthen. The midwife during this pregnancy agreed, she also suggested the pregnancy teas and the things you have mentioned also. Of course when you are pregnant your body naturally works the uterus with the Braxton Hicks contractions too.

Permalink Reply by Heather Ward on May 14, 2010 at 5:26pm

I think Eileen got it right...the concern is uterine rupture. One thing to be aware of is what type of uterine incision you had for your c-section, this could be different than the incision you have on your belly. The low-transverse incision carries the least risk of rupture. I would either ask my doctor or review my medical records. If you haven't already gotten pregnant, another thing to consider is the timing between births. My research indicated you should have at least 24 months between deliveries, although my doctor said she felt safe with 18 months. I believe that may be one of the biggest things in your control to help ensure a successful VBAC. I am not a midwife or nurse or doctor, but I have done a lot of my own research which has helped me make the decision to have a VBAC. And it seems that I am also lucky to have a doctor that is very supportive of whatever decision I make...I hope that your doctor will do the same for you. When I find them again, I will share some helpful websites for you to take a look at.

Permalink Reply by Nicole A. Tucker, Lic. LCC on April 28, 2010 at 4:43pm

Hi Adrienne:

As a Certified Aromatherapist, I recommend a combination of Lavender and Chamomile Essential Oils. Apply 3 drops on incision, three times per day. This will help to heal the incision from the inside-out.

Let us know your progress.

All the best,
Nicole
Founder/Organic Mommy & Baby Healthcare Solutions
www.WholeCreations.com

Permalink Reply by Bonnie P on May 14, 2010 at 10:02pm

I think a big part of having a successful VBAC is to team up with a care provider who is supportive of your choices and won't jump the gun to having another c-section. I had a VBAC just 2 weeks ago and my midwife was absolutely amazing and let me labour for 31.5 hours. We did need an OB consult and forceps were necessary in the end, but I think if I would have had a ob/gyn like my first doctor, I wouldn't have been "allowed" to labour so long and I'm sure a c-section would have been done.

I also agree with Heather - everyone feels more comfortable when there is 24 months or longer between births. My 2 are 19.5 months apart and I did get some grief about that. If they would have been 18 months or less apart, a VBAC wouldn't have been advised. Best of luck to you!

Permalink Reply by Nicole A. Tucker, Lic. LCC on May 13, 2011 at 11:38am

Hello Adrienne,

 

It's been a year later, did you conceive?  I am just reading your post and am suggesting Sweet Butterfly Mommy & Baby All-Purpose Aromatherapy Blend to assist the healing of c-section scars, among other fabulous support (http://www.wholecreations.com/mommyandbaby.html).  Exercise that strengthens your core would help too, such as belly dancing, hula hooping.

 

Take care,

Nicole