I had an unmedicated VBAC three months ago after an unplanned C-section in September 2017. It was a wonderful experience and I'm glad I did it, but it made me realize that my cesarean wasn't as bad as I thought it was when I had nothing else to compare it to. Childbirth is painful and recovery sucks no matter how your baby comes out. I will definitely attempt VBAC when I decide to have more children, but I don't think I would be completely heartbroken if I ended up with a C-section like I was after my first was born. Pushing my second daughter out didn't make me a better mom to her than I am to my first daughter. I'm an awesome mom to both of them regardless of how they were birthed. Good luck to all the mother's hoping for a VBAC, but remember that it will be okay if things don't work out. You're still an amazing mom that worked hard to bring your babies into to world!
@@Nurse_zabe thank you for this comment. I had a csection 2 months ago so I'm trying to figure out what to do for the rest of my babies. good to know i wont be missing much if i choose to have another csetion
CSection or VBAC or vaginal surgery has nothing to do with being a good mum or not. A woman can be a good mum to an adopted child. The point of not opting for a CSection is that it's a major surgery. Even though you heal quickly or not, you still have risk of complications in future pregnancy that may even increase material mortality rate. The lady in this video explained a bit of it. So yes, there's risk in having a CSection, there's higher risk in the postpartum stage and even greater risk in future pregnancies.
Oh I needed this! I had a c-section and feel like if I would have had a vaginal delivery I'd be more of a woman and mother of that makes since. Thank you for those kind words. You're an amazing woman.
I have driven over an hour to deliver in a vbac-friendly hospital for my last three deliveries, and I am doing so again this time. The number of hospitals that refuse to offer vbacs is ridiculous. I have no desire to undergo unnecessary abdominal surgery.
Thanks for the great video! The topic of VBAC is so important. I’m an L&D nurse as well, our hospital’s VBAC rate in 2019 was 72% which I’m very proud of :)
Because of chronical illness I don't have kids of my own. But I love your videos. You are so sweet and kind and I would be so happy to have you as my nurse. Please make a video about moms with diabetes or other chronical illnesses that may make things harder. Hugs from Norway.
I’m a student midwife in Australia and you’ve restored my faith in the American maternity system. My views is that USA is soooooo medicalised with birth and your values and beliefs are so much more in line with what we’re taught in university and our practice values! Thanks x
Isabella Waller I feel like we get a bad rap in the US, but there are many many providers here working to change that super medicalized culture around birthing!
I love your comment about “failure to decend”. I had a “failure to progress” and when I went to see a pediatrician the lady said... csection ... oh was it just really hard? & I got home and cried. It was a really traumatic experience. My waters broke prematurely and my body wouldn’t go into labor over 6 hours after. They gave me pitocin and then it led to an epidural and then I got to 10 cm and labored for several hours and he wouldn’t come out. Idk if I was too tired or what... but it’s no small thing. I was getting a fever 🥵 so i ended up having two options - to get and push a few more hours and they would try to move baby or c. I opted for a C and .... baby was in a just fine position. I second guessed everything when I got home, I felt horrible ... pain was brutal. I planned my entire pregnancy for natural. I had an amazing nurse come in when no one was in the room - she bought me a blanket and hat - and gave me a pep talk. She told me “you did your very best, and you made the best decision for you and baby and that is the most important thing”. She proceeded to explain she also had a c section with her first. It meant a lot to me. It helped me heal mentally after it was all over. I can hope for a VBAC.
MarissaSparkles don’t pay attention to that kind of comments. I’m sure many of us have heard similar things. It’s NOT who did poorly, its just that some people have been brought up poorly.
MarissaSparkles I’m so sorry people make such insensitive comments to mamas during such a sensitive time filled with hormones and sleep-deprivation. So glad you had a great nurse to see you through your decision for a c-section. Thankful you and babe are ok, but you are allowed to be disappointed with your birth while still being thankful for your healthy baby. I hope you get a beautiful VBAC in the future! 💗💗
Thank you for your comments on “failure” to descend/progress. I didn’t realize what an emotional impact that word was having on me as I’ve been researching the best choice for my next pregnancy. I was in labor for 24 hours and pushed for 5. I saw and felt my baby’s head before my c-section. I did NOT fail. I worked hard for my baby. ❤
Thank you so much for this video Elizabeth. You do such a wonderful job of explaining things in an understandable and respectful manner. Had my VBAC in March of 2018, it was the single most empowering experience of my life. It’s not right for everyone, but it’s a real option if women want to try it! Thanks for talking about the benefits and the risks.
I know this video is a few years old but I still thought I’d share. I had a planned csection at 39 weeks and 3 days due to my son being breech. He was born on July 10, 2023. He is my first baby. I’m currently pregnant with my daughter, due October 11th and hoping to have a vbac. Thankfully my doctor is open to it. Of course they all say you should wait 18 months in between births but I can’t find science based evidence backing that up.
@ I didn’t , unfortunately. I naturally went into labor on October 14th but her heart rate kept dropping during contractions. The doctor that delivered my son happened to be at the hospital that night and since everything went so well with her the first time I just asked to have another c-section. Everything went well but she did tell me my uterus was thin. With that in mind I might not try a vbac if we decide to have a 3rd in a couple years.
1st babe- c-section 2017 2nd - VBAC 2019 3rd - VBAC 2022 4th - planning VBAC early 2024! first VBAC was intervention heavy and traumatic. second VBAC was WONDERFUL :)
Ugh. I’m obsessed with your videos. I don’t have kids of my own but my best friend just had her first baby and I sent her your videos every time you posted. They’ve helped her and she wishes she had you in the room with her! Thank you for all you do
Thank you for making this video!! I had a C-section for our baby girl and have had thoughts on our (future) second delivery and if it was a possibility to attempt a vaginal delivery. Great info!!
Thanku so much zabe for your proper guidance. I am definitely sure that my second delivery is a VBAC. I trust my gut, you and specially the UNIVERSE POWER which is helping throughout my pregnancy and will also in VBAC delivery .
Spontaneous labor for vbac is the best option, but it is not an option for everyone. Please consider making a 10 things for vbac induction video or even a video where you attended a birth that was an induced vbac. There is not much out there on this topic and that is the position I am in personally. I have to be induced at 37weeks due to gestational hypertension
I LOVE your videos and learned so much. I had an unplanned c-sec 1.5 yrs ago and now am hoping for VBAC for the second one. My c-sec scar still itches and makes me think that it didn't heal right..., but what you said in this video, believe my body, really helped me to try for VBAC. Thanks! (Why did I find your video now, not 2 yrs ago!)
Thank YOU for acknowledging the work that I and all the other c-section mamas did! I had a c-section for my 5th baby due to not dialating (At #5 you would think they would almost fall out!😆) and baby's heart rate dipping dangerously low with each contraction. After the fact, we found out that my uterus is "paper thin" and we are so very blessed that that I carried him full term and we have a healthy sweet little man! I felt so upset that I couldn't do it after 13 hours and had "failed". I will not be having any more babies, but I so enjoy listening to you and your advice. Thank you! Smiles, Abby Smith
Abby Smith same girl same!!! I had my first c section with my 5th too for failure to progress. I thought since having to many it would be easier faster delivery! My uterus was thin too and had trouble contracting in the O.R.
I luckily had a vbac with my second who was born prematurely at 26 weeks! She was breech so they were preparing me to be put under plus an emergency section but also wanted to keep her cooking in me as long as medically possible. Even though it wasn’t an ideal situationist was a beautiful birth
Angela Di Marco I’m glad such a potentially stressful situation was made a little bit better by your ability to VBAC. hope your sweet little girl is doing well!
Listening to you speak is so soothing. I finally spoke to my obgyn about having a vbac and he is all for it. He explained the risks and I asked him for advice as I want a vaginal birth, because I'm scared of csections. He told me, he isn't worried. That I would be monitored and if an emergency csection is needed, they will make sure it's done. I'm now scared because I'm 36 weeks pregnant and I don't know anything about breathing, exercises I can do last minute to help, pushing... all the important stuff. :-/
I live over 2 ½ hrs from the nearest VBAC friendly hospital. I committed to it for my first VBAC & was successful! Best choice I’ve ever made! I must have cried for an hour straight I was so happy! I’m currently pregnant with our 4th & hoping to be successful for the 3rd time at a non VBAC friendly hospital in our little town. #3 came so fast I didn’t have time to go anywhere else which is why I’m staying in town for this 4th one again.
My OB told me after I had my emergency c section that I’ll have another one with the next baby. Also what I’ve heard mostly is that American doctors don’t like to do VBac due to liability issues
Beth Watters hmm, maybe with your incision. Definitely something to ask about is why must you have a repeat c-section. And find a doctor willing to do a VBAC if that’s something you desire and is medically safe.
I was told the same thing by my obgyn from my 2nd pregnancy said no doctor who delivers at that hospital will attempt a VBAC because of liability issues. I'm glad with this 3rd and final pregnancy I was able to find a hospital and obgyn that is 100% on board and willing to let me try a VBAC. I have to drive further for it but to me personally it's worth it to at least try to have one child without having surgery.
I had an emergency C-section at 26 weeks 6 days because I was bleeding and my baby was breech. If he wasn’t breech, I could’ve had him vaginal because I was already 4cm dilated and he was really small. I’m pregnant again a year later (36 weeks). My doctor is trying to force me to have a scheduled C-section. However the hospital is vbac supportive and i was able to change my doctor this late. Even the mfm office I was seeing during my last pregnancy told me to change the doctor because I can do a vbac.
I had a C-section with my daughter, born in July 2016, due to my body not responding to Pitocin. Praying for the possibility of a VBAC in the future 🙌🏻
Thank you for this video I have been going back an forth on if I want a vbac first ended in a emergency c-section and now that we are TTC I’m really researching my options and talking to my dr to see what our best options are. So thank you
I’m 39 weeks tomorrow and trying for a VBAC 💚 I had HELLP with my daughter at 28 wks. But my dr said I’m a good candidate 😊 So doing everything to bring on some labor ! Thanks for this video 😘
I'm a birth doula and have been to several, wonderful VBACs in the hospital (with CNMs!) There are so many angles and nuances, you covered them really well :) As always, care should be individualized to the patient's preference. And just like you said, it's really important for moms to know they're with a provider that they trust and will offer true informed consent - a thorough discussion of risk/benefits AND honoring of whatever the client chooses. Thank you for this!
Would love a vbac. With my 5th baby I had my first c section. Failure to progress past 6cm. ob suspected a bandl ring. Had c section, had to do a B lynch stitch to my uterus to stop bleeding. It was insanity and traumatizing. Debating a vbac for my 6th in October. Loved this video!!!
if you had natural deliveries for your first 4 kids, I dont see why you couldn't try for another. Each pregnancy and birth is different so just take it day by day and see what your doctor says and go with whatever you truly want.
My first baby was a c/s after all attempts to get her vertex were unsuccessful, i.e. she was breech. While I was still.on.the.table, my OB declared that I should "plan on having c/s from now on because [my] pelvis looks kinda small". The baby and I were fine, but I made up my mind right then that after my postpartum checkup I was finding a new provider. I switched to a group with both CNMs and OBs who work as colleagues with mutual respect shortly after. Three years later I was pg with our second, and my husband and I had saved up money to hire a doula. When we were having our initial meeting, my husband thought she was going to traipse in waving burning sage, wearing crystals, and reading our auras or something. He was surprised that she turned out to be this middle aged woman who looked like she walked out of an LLBean catalog, who was warm and friendly while still being no-nonsense, and who could cite journal articles and white papers to back up anything she said. Most importantly, she said her role was to support me primarily *with him*, and to "tap in" if or when he needed a break. The only part he got right in his preconceived notions (pun intended 😁) was crystal -- that is her name! Before we signed the contract she did caution us that during the month I was due there were two days where she needed to be out of town with her husband for a medical procedure with him. She assured us that her back up was just as experienced as her and "probably a little bit nicer" LOL. So of course, I went into labor on one of those two days and she was born via unmedicated vbac less than 6 hours after my first contraction. She was 7 lb 12 oz but with a nuchal arm, across her body -- right hand on left cheek. The Midwife who caught her said that in general they consider that the equivalent of a baby 2 lbs bigger. So much for my "small pelvis"! Crystal's back-up, Connie, was just as awesome as Crystal was. They both offered us follow up care and it felt like my two favorite aunts were nurturing me. When we got pregnant with our third daughter it was a no-brainer: we hired Crystal again, and I had my second unmedicated, spontaneous VBAC 22 months after the first, this time with Crystal in attendance. I think one of the most valuable things our doulas did to support us was to make sure we had all the information we needed, and that my head was "in the right space". The labor with our second daughter was intense, probably because my water broke first (SROM). Within the first hour of ctx starting they were 2 min apart. If I didn't have the terrific support of my husband and Connie (Crystal's backup) I could have easily gotten overwhelmed by it. Curiously, our third baby's labor began at 6AM and she was born in the caul at 9:04 that night. Again, if I didn't have our doula's support I might have wondered if there was something "wrong" with the labor because it was so much longer and definitely less intense. Doulas can be amazing!
Im twoish week out from attempting my vbac. Hoping all goes well. My Csection was because of stalled labor. However my entire 30 hr induction they would let me get up and move around. And i couldnt even roll in bed. Staff was no help, baby and i were stable so there was no reason they didnt allow me out of bed. Ended up getting epidural at 6cm and never got passed 6. But im truly believing it was the fact that they wouldnt let me move in labor that cause my labor to stall out, my cervix was a firm close at induction at 39 weeks and my daughter ended up kinda crooked as she was descrnding during labor Im so hopeful for this vbac and hoping i can avoid induction this time
Love your videos Nurse Zabe! In Jamaica and hoping for a vbac in a couple of months as well. Its not so easy to find a truly supportive ob/gyn but hoping my midwife with be here to deliver :-)
Thank you so much for this video. Doing a TOLAC in January in a kaiser hospital. Your videos are extra special to me because you look and sound just like Drew Barrymore who I adore. :D 😀
Im so glad ive found your channel. I only wish this was around when i was pregnant with my youngest. Watching all these labor and delivery videos is definitely preparing me for when i decide to have another some day. Ive had 2 csections and my goal is to have a successful vbac when i decide to have my next 💞 i would also like to request a video on different forms of pain management during delivery maybe?
Happy i found your vlogs they are really educative and helping get rid of nervousness am expecting my third child and wish for a successful VBACs i actually had a C-section with my daughter 2in 2013 due to failure to labour am praying for a safe delivery and a healthy baby and me too. Kindly help me with how to count pregnancy weeks my last periods was from 19th to 22nd of January will appreciate your help thanks in advance dear
I wish you could be my L&D nurse😉 I've already had a successful vbac but for some reason I feel like I still have to fight for a 2nd vbac. Drs are scapel happy these days.
I had three vaginal births, two of them at home with no interventions at all, and then an emergency c-section with my fourth (turned out he had chorioamnionitis, cord vasculitis, and a clot under the placenta, which put him into distress and he had heart decels and thick meconium, plus he was OP (anterior placenta and he just loved having his face up against it) and just wouldn't descend, so I never got past 4 cm), and it SUCKED. It was horrible. I was in excruciating pain and woke up in tears every morning for the first 10 days, I had to stay an extra night in the hospital to get the pain under control better (I loathe being in the hospital and would rather go home ASAP; for me, it is not a fun vacation from my other kids like some people say it is for them, it's just being constantly pestered and unable to sleep, unable to relax, just wanting to leave and snuggle my baby in my own bed, the food that I can safely eat is garbage, etc.), I had nerve damage that took several months to get better, I couldn't even change diapers without lots of discomfort and weakness. I don't plan on having any more, but if I do ever have another baby, I would jump through flaming hoops to avoid another c-section. I'd even do it naturally again if I had to, and one of my natural births was absolutely awful as well (40 hours of labor, separated pelvis, BIG headed baby).
Hi Elizabeth! I love your videos. I just recently got the crazy idea that I want to become an L&D nurse. For the longest time I wanted to go into law enforcement. Watching your videos and some TV shows changed my mind. I was wondering if you could make a video on how you decided to become an L&D nurse, what the process was (schooling & hiring) and maybe the pros/cons. I hope that if I ever become a nurse that i’m half the nurse you are! You seem so kind and compassionate. Definitely someone to look up to 💓
I’m 35wks +1day and my goal is to have a VBAC but I’m plus sized and I’m beyond scared about vaginal rupture.. this video did help me a little bit! I’m just very nervous. My first was an emergency c section, my doctor was pretty confident I’d be able to do a VBAC today but I’m not sure if the incision on my uterus is diagonal or vertical. The scar I have is diagonal on my bikini line but idk about the one inside.
Placing an epidural is not necessary at all or good if you don't want one. I asked my doctor in my first and she told me in a true emergency they will not have time to give you the medication for the C-section which is not the same as epidural medication abd they have to wait for it to work and in an emergency they don't have time to wait and general anesthesia would have to be used. So no do not get a catheter epidural placed just in case.
I had an emergency c section after a failed induction in June 2020. Im suffering a lot from ptsd and pnd because of it. Im now planning to have a vbac in a few years once the chances of vbac are higher so Im wanting to get informed years in advanced so there is a 100% of having a positive birth next time. My therapist is putting me in contact with a midwife to have a debrief to figure out my risk level so that I can decide when/if I have my next baby x
I’m a great candidate for a VBAC, but unfortunately my doctor doesn’t do them...so I’d have to go to a different one and it’s already taken me 3 years to get used to my doctor. I’m so sad that I have to get a c-section again.
Thanks a lot for this video Elizabeth🙏🏽. I watched your videos religiously when I was pregnant last year, 2022. However my baby was late as my due date was the 6th of august and I was scheduled for an induction on the 12th of August at about 40+5, but on getting to the hospital and doing the scan, it was discovered I had no amniotic fluid so I was advised to have an emergency C-section and no longer the induction as planned, which made me so anxious and scared, thankfully baby and I were amazing. Do you please have any tips on how to avoid low amniotic fluid and also tips on having a successful vbac. I’d like to try for another baby soon but I’m really scared of what to expect as low amniotic fluid doesn’t seem to be a common situation upon doing research. Thanks a lot for helping us all❤
VBAC 12.5 months after an emergency C-Section as a result of cord prolapse? One doc says it’s fine and I’m a great candidate and one said absolutely and just about laughed in my face!
I had a natural not induced first birth exactly on due date ( with routine amniotomy on 8cm, oxytocin in third period of labour); second birth - emergency c-section on 35,5, because of overtiredness ( heavy long travelling in cold weather, difficult life condition), after mucus plug fell out I went to hospital 🤦♀️ and got oxytocin drip, after - hellfire...With 3rd baby I got a planned c-section, because agreed under psychological pressure of care provider. My baby was 2300 kg on 37weeks of gestational age, because his mom overdose with exercises and fasting, religious dry fasting ( in religion told you not fast, if it can harm you or your baby). Placental circulation was good, baby symmetric, healthy, no any another health issues except 2300kg, I'm small size myself, there was a lack of communication with obstetrician ...With first baby I didn't fast and his weight was normal (3200kg). After it I made analysis point by point, getting the right knowledges...Originally I and my babies were relatively healthy and normal pregnancies. Now I'm pregnant 4th and my chances of successful VBAC-2 are high, I'm 36 y.o. fit woman. I'm avoiding previous mistakes, learning a lot, preparing me physically and mentally, +birth plan,...a COMMUNICATION with obstetrician!!!
My first child was breech so I had a C-section. With my second pregnancy I wanted a vbac. My county however will not do vbac so I was gonna drive a little over two hours away to do one but I was blessed with IVF twins, so I figured it will be safer to do another c-section plus I’m dealing with a a incompetent cervix and I have a cerclage.
Mom to a boy, dogs, and dolls Congrats on your twins. I totally get why you would decide to have another c-section with everything going on with this pregnancy. I hope it continues smoothly and those sweet little peanuts stay in and cook for as long as possible!!
Elizabeth! You are truly amazing at what you do! The knowledge of yours is impeccable, simple, and wealthy to all women of every race. I do urge many to be well informed. God created all women to give birth! Therefore, to acquire wisdom is critical.
I had a C-section 7 years ago and I’m currently 39 weeks pregnant 🤰 my dr tells me that I’m in risk of a uterus rupture but I mean it’s been 7 years I feel like his not supportive at all my C-section was horizontal and small my daughter was only 32 weeks when she was born.. they told me that I can’t get induced but if my body doesn’t do it on its own I will get a C-section at 41 weeks
I had a C-section and recovered very quickly. I thought it was a great experience and an easy recovery. I was even released from the hospital after less than 48 hours. All of the doctors keep telling me I would be a great candidate for a VBAC. I am not going to have anymore children (1 and done!), but I feel like if I did I would lean more toward an elective C-section. I am glad I won't have to make that decision because there are a lot of pros and cons on both sides.
I want a vbac so badly but my provider was very dishonest and is actually completely unsupportive. I've been scheduled a c section that I don't want so I'm hoping I go into labor on my own before then
I had a vbac two and a half weeks ago to get to the hospital that would do a vbac I was 5 cm dilated and had started to have contractions when we got there they were getting more intense so I cannot get any sleep so the nurse finally asked if I would like some pain killer and I said yes so she gave me pain killer so I could get some sleep but it did not wear off like it should have so I was completely out of it when it came time to have baby. Baby's heartbeat had dropped while he was in the birth canal so they had to get him out quickly they used forceps. I was in so much pain after the fact it definitely felt like something was wrong but they sent me home 24 hours after even though I was in so much pain. I ended up back in the hospital that Friday because I got to the point that I could not move due to being in so much pain my husband actually had to call an ambulance I had lost two units of blood somehow and nobody knew where it disappeared to because I had not been bleeding that heavy after I had the baby. I have been home for a week now and I'm doing a little bit better I can see that I have quite the recovery ahead of me.
Had an emergency c section with my first (fetal distress caus he was tangled in his cord). Because we don't know how many children we want I really wanted a VBAC. Trusted my body a little too much and ended up having an unplanned homebirth at 41 weeks but I am happy I turned down the elective c section at 39 weeks.
Your videos are just great. It’s a shame I have come across your channel after I had my son. I have gone through a very traumatic birthing experience (induced at 36 weeks due to pre eclampsia, 48hrs of moderate contractions-0 dilation, then another 48 hrs of strong contractions and only 3cm dilation). They’ve tried everything on me and it just did not work. I finally got an epidural after almost 4 days of contractions and got an infection (i guess because of the urinary catheter) and they had to take me for an emergency C-section. At this point I did not care anymore. I was tired, angry at myself and the doctors and absolutely hopeless. Luckily my son was okay, he did have an infection at birth but otherwise he was fine. He’s 14 months now but I still cannot get over this. My dreams of having a big family and 3-4 kids are shattered and I am not sure I will ever try for another baby. If I do, there is little chance I will consider VB, I would rather have a planned C-section. My recovery from c-section was quick and easy so I am not scared of that to be honest. But just thinking about VB makes me shiver. Things might change, who knows... but I just want to thank you for making these videos, they are just so inspirational Do you mind to make a video on pre eclampsia? I still do not quite understand what it is and why did I develop it out of nowhere... Many thanks in advance and greeting from London, UK 😊
Jekaterina Birger I’m so sorry you had such a difficult delivery. Thankful you and your son were ok and that the recovery was a good experience for you. I mentioned at the end of the video that it is 100% ok if you just plan on having a repeat csection! I can also totally work on a video on pre-eclampsia
I am so sorry that this happened to you. I recently experienced Preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome at 39 weeks with my 1st pregnancy and had to have an emergency c-section. It was very traumatic. My Dr. told me I should wait a year and 1/2 or up to 2 years to have another baby. I have always dreamed of a big family too, but now I am so scared that things will go wrong again.
I have had preeclampsia with all 6 of my babies, the first 4 were inducted and last 2 were natural. I'm pregnant with number 7. Let me tell you it gets easier the more I've had. You still have to be careful and monitor the signs but each one has been healthy and I've been just fine 👍🏻👍🏻
Can you also make the opposite video? What the advantages of a repeat c-section are and why a doctorwould require it? I'm in a city/county where repeat c-section is the only option.
Hey lovey, this may be a long shot, but recently in my state, we lost a woman in childbirth. Her organs shut down after she brought her son into the world. This is extremely scary for me, and heartbreaking. Could you make a video on childbirth risks and conditions?
I'm 23+4 weeks along, my last baby was a csection and my doctor is telling me I'm having another csection because of my gestational diabetes and my being 36 years old. I told her I want a vbac, but she has told me she'll not allow it. I'm currently looking for a new doctor
My mom had a Vbac :) I guess. My brother and I were born at 27 weeks. We were to small or something for her to deliver us naturally. Or was it one of us was breach. Hmm... anyways. After that she had my brother and sister naturally. :) so my twin and I were her first and only cesarean. Good job my mom.
I’m desperately wanting a VBAC this baby. My first baby was vaginal easy peasy. My second was emergency c section at 32 weeks because the ultrasound indicated IUGR. He was born at 4 lbs even. This baby, I’m 12 weeks, every dr my insurance takes in the area refuses a VBAC because they quote uterine rupture rates are high...but there’s no validation to this because I can never get a straight answer from them on the why it pertains to me. The hospital accepts VBACS here in Daytona, Halifax. I’m so stressed out and I’m beginning to feel like I’m being forced by these male Drs to allow them to rip my body open: I’m sorry, I’m a survivor and I’m not in that idea at all. Why are American Drs like this?
Also is it even possible to have vbac after having 2 csections? With my first I was fully dialed and ready to push but my doctor didn’t want to risk it because my sons heart beat would go down with each contraction. And with my second everything went well I healed up well no complications
You. Are. Amazing. I feel so lucky to have came across your videos at the perfect time in my life. You've already given me so much knowledge & insight, leaving me significantly more confident & comfortable with the process. I'm looking forward to learning even more from you as my pregnancy progresses. I can't thank you enough!! 💙 Also, if you could possibly do a vid on the role & benefits of a labor doula it would be awesome!!
Would love a video on weaning ! Especially from someone like you who did extended breastfeeding. I’m planning to breastfeed till 18-24 months but no idea now to wean and everyone keeps telling me I’m naking it harder for myself to wean but I want to breastfeed till then 😫
What advice would you give to moms who are overweight but otherwise are good candidate for a Vbac. What can they do during the pregnancy to increase their chances?
My mom had a vbac birth in her 40s at home for her 7th child, it went so well and fast she almost had her on the toilet, the midwife caught my sister mid air!
Could you do a video on breastfeeding and when it may not be best to breastfeed and the feelings associated with it? I gave birth 6 days ago and decided long before we were formula feeding due to my bipolar. As my due date neared, I expressed a little more interest but again reminded myself it wasn’t the right thing for me. Now I’m crying because I want to breastfeed and in absolutely heartbroken that I can’t/shouldn’t due to needing to get back on a mood stabilizer, but I’m not really sure why I want to so badly all of a sudden when I was pretty neutral about the whole thing before. 😭
Well before you gave birth it, even though you knew you were going to have a baby, its hard to realize how much everything changes the moment that they're born. Just because you chose not to breastfeed for your own health, doesn't make you any less of a wonderful mom. Talk to your doctor at your one week check up about your feelings and possible options. And give yourself a break! You just went through one of the most intense/magical events of your life. And you've still got all of the pregnancy hormones that are going to be sticking around for a while. You can do this, just breathe!
I'm trying for a vba2c next year! I've never labored before at all, first two kids scheduled at 38 weeks exactly. Since my body hasn't experienced labor I'm assuming that means the whole, "second, third baby comes faster" theory doesn't apply?
Labor question how to work with labor nurses? I know, from tons of experience getting IVs that my elbow on my right arm is the best spot. Most labor nurses fight with me and say "you can't have it in your elbow"...I understand that they don't want you to pinch it by moving but I would rather keep one arm straight (even if it's slightly awkward). Then have my iv blow a vein, end up being poked several times before getting it in and ending up with bruises all up my arms. How can I polite explain this to a nurse quickly in a way that is persuasive?
Currently 40wks and 1day. Im trying for a vbac but my Dr has recommended a repeat csection at 41 weeks. So far, the baby and I are healthy and everything is ok. I want to wait until 42 weeks. What time line would you recommend?
You mentioned the possibility of getting pneumonia after a C-section. How common is that? I actually got pneumonia after my first c-section and it was very bad and tramatic.
Michelle Nelson I’m not 100% sure of a statistic, especially since that is a complication that is more likely to happen once you’ve been discharged. But with any surgery, pneumonia is a possible complication. The best way to combat this is get up and move ASAP and use your incentive spirometer to help expand your lungs and prevent infection. I’m sorry you had to go through that. Coughing with an abdominal incision is no joke. 😩
Do you think the chances of the VBAC being successful go up if you do not have an epidural? Even with a nurse moving you, that's not nearly as much movement as it would be normally. Plus you're still in a bed... I have my heart absolutely set on a VBAC, but my entire medical team seems so against it. It's very disheartening.
This makes me so sad. I always knew I wanted a vbac after having a c section with my first and with my second I went in asking all the questions and he told me he didn’t do them but he knew someone and I was going to talk to her in the future but he would always scary me about the risk never encourage it. So I ended up having a repeat csection.
I sooooo tried with all i am to have a vback with my second.. :( Even with trying to go to a hospital that would allow me too.. But becouse my INSURANCE wouldnt allow it.. Said i was to much of a liability if i went vaginal.. And would not cover my hospital bill... I think i could have had him the way i wanted if it wasn't for that..
I dont know if you have a video of just epidural, but im scared of epidural I'm scared of a gisnt needle going near my spine. I dont know much about epidural and ive only heard some things about it. My fear is that I get the epidural and something happens when the doctor is inserting the needle and I become paralyzed.... I know it sounds so stupid... But I dont know what to do.
I had an unmedicated VBAC three months ago after an unplanned C-section in September 2017. It was a wonderful experience and I'm glad I did it, but it made me realize that my cesarean wasn't as bad as I thought it was when I had nothing else to compare it to. Childbirth is painful and recovery sucks no matter how your baby comes out. I will definitely attempt VBAC when I decide to have more children, but I don't think I would be completely heartbroken if I ended up with a C-section like I was after my first was born. Pushing my second daughter out didn't make me a better mom to her than I am to my first daughter. I'm an awesome mom to both of them regardless of how they were birthed. Good luck to all the mother's hoping for a VBAC, but remember that it will be okay if things don't work out. You're still an amazing mom that worked hard to bring your babies into to world!
I found recovery from my c section easier than from my VBAC
“I’m an awesome mom to both regardless of how they were birthed” YES YES YES times a million! Everyone needs to hear this! 💗💗
@@Nurse_zabe thank you for this comment. I had a csection 2 months ago so I'm trying to figure out what to do for the rest of my babies. good to know i wont be missing much if i choose to have another csetion
CSection or VBAC or vaginal surgery has nothing to do with being a good mum or not. A woman can be a good mum to an adopted child. The point of not opting for a CSection is that it's a major surgery. Even though you heal quickly or not, you still have risk of complications in future pregnancy that may even increase material mortality rate. The lady in this video explained a bit of it. So yes, there's risk in having a CSection, there's higher risk in the postpartum stage and even greater risk in future pregnancies.
Oh I needed this! I had a c-section and feel like if I would have had a vaginal delivery I'd be more of a woman and mother of that makes since. Thank you for those kind words. You're an amazing woman.
I have driven over an hour to deliver in a vbac-friendly hospital for my last three deliveries, and I am doing so again this time. The number of hospitals that refuse to offer vbacs is ridiculous. I have no desire to undergo unnecessary abdominal surgery.
Same! I drive 1.5 hours for mine but I feel it will be totally worth it. I love my obgyn!
How bout I'm going to stay with family for about a month before my due date so I can deliver at a hospital about 2 hours away.
I’ve just found this video 5 years after you posted, I’m 38 weeks hoping for a VBAC any day now! Thanks for your info!
Did you succeed
@ yep! Had a successful VBAC in September 😊
@@rachelbroughton6457 Thanks to God 🙏, pray for us as well
Omg the description box!!! I spat out my water laughing😂😂
😂😂😂
I’m not even pregnant but I LOVE watching your videos LOL. Your attitude, energy and knowledge is lovely 💖
Same lol I love watching her
Thanks for the great video! The topic of VBAC is so important. I’m an L&D nurse as well, our hospital’s VBAC rate in 2019 was 72% which I’m very proud of :)
That’s awesome! 💗
Because of chronical illness I don't have kids of my own. But I love your videos. You are so sweet and kind and I would be so happy to have you as my nurse. Please make a video about moms with diabetes or other chronical illnesses that may make things harder. Hugs from Norway.
Thank you for never associating birth and mothers with “failure.” That word does a lot of damage.
I’m a student midwife in Australia and you’ve restored my faith in the American maternity system. My views is that USA is soooooo medicalised with birth and your values and beliefs are so much more in line with what we’re taught in university and our practice values! Thanks x
Isabella Waller I feel like we get a bad rap in the US, but there are many many providers here working to change that super medicalized culture around birthing!
I love your comment about “failure to decend”. I had a “failure to progress” and when I went to see a pediatrician the lady said... csection ... oh was it just really hard? & I got home and cried. It was a really traumatic experience. My waters broke prematurely and my body wouldn’t go into labor over 6 hours after. They gave me pitocin and then it led to an epidural and then I got to 10 cm and labored for several hours and he wouldn’t come out. Idk if I was too tired or what... but it’s no small thing. I was getting a fever 🥵 so i ended up having two options - to get and push a few more hours and they would try to move baby or c. I opted for a C and .... baby was in a just fine position. I second guessed everything when I got home, I felt horrible ... pain was brutal. I planned my entire pregnancy for natural. I had an amazing nurse come in when no one was in the room - she bought me a blanket and hat - and gave me a pep talk. She told me “you did your very best, and you made the best decision for you and baby and that is the most important thing”. She proceeded to explain she also had a c section with her first. It meant a lot to me. It helped me heal mentally after it was all over. I can hope for a VBAC.
MarissaSparkles don’t pay attention to that kind of comments. I’m sure many of us have heard similar things. It’s NOT who did poorly, its just that some people have been brought up poorly.
MarissaSparkles I’m so sorry people make such insensitive comments to mamas during such a sensitive time filled with hormones and sleep-deprivation. So glad you had a great nurse to see you through your decision for a c-section. Thankful you and babe are ok, but you are allowed to be disappointed with your birth while still being thankful for your healthy baby. I hope you get a beautiful VBAC in the future! 💗💗
Thank you for your comments on “failure” to descend/progress. I didn’t realize what an emotional impact that word was having on me as I’ve been researching the best choice for my next pregnancy. I was in labor for 24 hours and pushed for 5. I saw and felt my baby’s head before my c-section. I did NOT fail. I worked hard for my baby. ❤
Thank you so much for this video Elizabeth. You do such a wonderful job of explaining things in an understandable and respectful manner.
Had my VBAC in March of 2018, it was the single most empowering experience of my life. It’s not right for everyone, but it’s a real option if women want to try it! Thanks for talking about the benefits and the risks.
Liz Lander that’s awesome! Glad you had such an empowering experience! 😊
Just had a successful vbac a week ago!
Danielle Digges CONGRATS!
I know this video is a few years old but I still thought I’d share. I had a planned csection at 39 weeks and 3 days due to my son being breech. He was born on July 10, 2023. He is my first baby. I’m currently pregnant with my daughter, due October 11th and hoping to have a vbac. Thankfully my doctor is open to it. Of course they all say you should wait 18 months in between births but I can’t find science based evidence backing that up.
Did you have Vbac ?? Update please .
@ I didn’t , unfortunately. I naturally went into labor on October 14th but her heart rate kept dropping during contractions. The doctor that delivered my son happened to be at the hospital that night and since everything went so well with her the first time I just asked to have another c-section. Everything went well but she did tell me my uterus was thin. With that in mind I might not try a vbac if we decide to have a 3rd in a couple years.
Who dislikes the video??!!!! I love and appreciate all of the information you provided.
as an aspiring labor and delivery nurse, i love your videos. can you make a video or talk about what it's like being pregnant as a nurse?
yes please please please do that!
1st babe- c-section 2017
2nd - VBAC 2019
3rd - VBAC 2022
4th - planning VBAC early 2024!
first VBAC was intervention heavy and traumatic. second VBAC was WONDERFUL :)
Ugh. I’m obsessed with your videos. I don’t have kids of my own but my best friend just had her first baby and I sent her your videos every time you posted. They’ve helped her and she wishes she had you in the room with her! Thank you for all you do
I'm 22 weeks pregnant and I'm really hoping to have a vbac. Thank you so much for all the information!☺️👶
Marisol Reyes you got this, mama! 💪🏼💗
@@Nurse_zabe thank you ☺️💝👶
Thank you for making this video!! I had a C-section for our baby girl and have had thoughts on our (future) second delivery and if it was a possibility to attempt a vaginal delivery. Great info!!
Thanku so much zabe for your proper guidance. I am definitely sure that my second delivery is a VBAC. I trust my gut, you and specially the UNIVERSE POWER which is helping throughout my pregnancy and will also in VBAC delivery .
Yay! I’m 35+2 weeks with my 2nd child. My first was a C-section, and I’m going for a VBAC this time round 🥰
Abblebabbles you got this, mama! 💪🏼💗
How did it go plz
How did it go plz
I wish there could be more people like you! you're amazing
Spontaneous labor for vbac is the best option, but it is not an option for everyone. Please consider making a 10 things for vbac induction video or even a video where you attended a birth that was an induced vbac. There is not much out there on this topic and that is the position I am in personally. I have to be induced at 37weeks due to gestational hypertension
I LOVE your videos and learned so much. I had an unplanned c-sec 1.5 yrs ago and now am hoping for VBAC for the second one. My c-sec scar still itches and makes me think that it didn't heal right..., but what you said in this video, believe my body, really helped me to try for VBAC. Thanks! (Why did I find your video now, not 2 yrs ago!)
How was your vbac ?
Hey Elizabeth! I would love if you could do a video on induction like what the different approaches are and what they’re like etc.
Jess oh and maybe why they are done! My waters spontaneously ruptured but I wasn’t in labor! It ended up in induction!
I'm so grateful that my hospital is really pro vbac! 🙌 Trying vbac for this baby ❤️
Thank YOU for acknowledging the work that I and all the other c-section mamas did! I had a c-section for my 5th baby due to not dialating (At #5 you would think they would almost fall out!😆) and baby's heart rate dipping dangerously low with each contraction. After the fact, we found out that my uterus is "paper thin" and we are so very blessed that that I carried him full term and we have a healthy sweet little man! I felt so upset that I couldn't do it after 13 hours and had "failed". I will not be having any more babies, but I so enjoy listening to you and your advice. Thank you! Smiles, Abby Smith
Abby Smith Girl, you certainly did not fail!! 5 babies you are certainly a rockstar mama in my book!
Abby Smith same girl same!!! I had my first c section with my 5th too for failure to progress. I thought since having to many it would be easier faster delivery! My uterus was thin too and had trouble contracting in the O.R.
Thank you so much for making these videos. You really helped me when I had my son!!! ❤️❤️you are awesome
samantha nofal That is seriously the best thing you could tell me! Congrats on your sweet baby boy!
I luckily had a vbac with my second who was born prematurely at 26 weeks! She was breech so they were preparing me to be put under plus an emergency section but also wanted to keep her cooking in me as long as medically possible. Even though it wasn’t an ideal situationist was a beautiful birth
Angela Di Marco
I’m glad such a potentially stressful situation was made a little bit better by your ability to VBAC. hope your sweet little girl is doing well!
Listening to you speak is so soothing. I finally spoke to my obgyn about having a vbac and he is all for it. He explained the risks and I asked him for advice as I want a vaginal birth, because I'm scared of csections. He told me, he isn't worried. That I would be monitored and if an emergency csection is needed, they will make sure it's done.
I'm now scared because I'm 36 weeks pregnant and I don't know anything about breathing, exercises I can do last minute to help, pushing... all the important stuff. :-/
I live over 2 ½ hrs from the nearest VBAC friendly hospital. I committed to it for my first VBAC & was successful! Best choice I’ve ever made! I must have cried for an hour straight I was so happy! I’m currently pregnant with our 4th & hoping to be successful for the 3rd time at a non VBAC friendly hospital in our little town. #3 came so fast I didn’t have time to go anywhere else which is why I’m staying in town for this 4th one again.
Adrienne Thompson That’s awesome!! I hope your next delivery goes just as smoothly!
My OB told me after I had my emergency c section that I’ll have another one with the next baby. Also what I’ve heard mostly is that American doctors don’t like to do VBac due to liability issues
Beth Watters hmm, maybe with your incision. Definitely something to ask about is why must you have a repeat c-section. And find a doctor willing to do a VBAC if that’s something you desire and is medically safe.
I was told the same thing by my obgyn from my 2nd pregnancy said no doctor who delivers at that hospital will attempt a VBAC because of liability issues. I'm glad with this 3rd and final pregnancy I was able to find a hospital and obgyn that is 100% on board and willing to let me try a VBAC. I have to drive further for it but to me personally it's worth it to at least try to have one child without having surgery.
I had an emergency C-section at 26 weeks 6 days because I was bleeding and my baby was breech. If he wasn’t breech, I could’ve had him vaginal because I was already 4cm dilated and he was really small. I’m pregnant again a year later (36 weeks). My doctor is trying to force me to have a scheduled C-section. However the hospital is vbac supportive and i was able to change my doctor this late. Even the mfm office I was seeing during my last pregnancy told me to change the doctor because I can do a vbac.
@@its.dayday__ hello, did you get the vbac?
Best video I have found so far! Packed full of info!
Thanks Nurse Zabe! I think I have watched all of your videos now. I truly appreciate you creating these for everyone!
I had a C-section with my daughter, born in July 2016, due to my body not responding to Pitocin. Praying for the possibility of a VBAC in the future 🙌🏻
I am an aspiring doula and i love your channel you are so positive and informative !! Thank you !!
They kept yelling at me for standing up during my labor. I genuinely just think my hospital was horrible..
Thank you for this video I have been going back an forth on if I want a vbac first ended in a emergency c-section and now that we are TTC I’m really researching my options and talking to my dr to see what our best options are. So thank you
I’m 39 weeks tomorrow and trying for a VBAC 💚
I had HELLP with my daughter at 28 wks. But my dr said I’m a good candidate 😊
So doing everything to bring on some labor !
Thanks for this video 😘
Sarah Attaway Good luck, mama! You got this!
Hello, did you get the vbac?
I'm a birth doula and have been to several, wonderful VBACs in the hospital (with CNMs!) There are so many angles and nuances, you covered them really well :) As always, care should be individualized to the patient's preference. And just like you said, it's really important for moms to know they're with a provider that they trust and will offer true informed consent - a thorough discussion of risk/benefits AND honoring of whatever the client chooses. Thank you for this!
Mother Well Doula Trust is so, so important. Thank you for all you do advocating for your clients and making births safer and more supported! 💗
@@Nurse_zabe thank you!!! Also can you clone yourself as a nurse and staff all the hospitals!?!? 😉
Would love a vbac. With my 5th baby I had my first c section. Failure to progress past 6cm. ob suspected a bandl ring. Had c section, had to do a B lynch stitch to my uterus to stop bleeding. It was insanity and traumatizing. Debating a vbac for my 6th in October. Loved this video!!!
if you had natural deliveries for your first 4 kids, I dont see why you couldn't try for another. Each pregnancy and birth is different so just take it day by day and see what your doctor says and go with whatever you truly want.
wow 6 kids!!!!
My first baby was a c/s after all attempts to get her vertex were unsuccessful, i.e. she was breech. While I was still.on.the.table, my OB declared that I should "plan on having c/s from now on because [my] pelvis looks kinda small". The baby and I were fine, but I made up my mind right then that after my postpartum checkup I was finding a new provider. I switched to a group with both CNMs and OBs who work as colleagues with mutual respect shortly after. Three years later I was pg with our second, and my husband and I had saved up money to hire a doula. When we were having our initial meeting, my husband thought she was going to traipse in waving burning sage, wearing crystals, and reading our auras or something. He was surprised that she turned out to be this middle aged woman who looked like she walked out of an LLBean catalog, who was warm and friendly while still being no-nonsense, and who could cite journal articles and white papers to back up anything she said. Most importantly, she said her role was to support me primarily *with him*, and to "tap in" if or when he needed a break. The only part he got right in his preconceived notions (pun intended 😁) was crystal -- that is her name! Before we signed the contract she did caution us that during the month I was due there were two days where she needed to be out of town with her husband for a medical procedure with him. She assured us that her back up was just as experienced as her and "probably a little bit nicer" LOL. So of course, I went into labor on one of those two days and she was born via unmedicated vbac less than 6 hours after my first contraction. She was 7 lb 12 oz but with a nuchal arm, across her body -- right hand on left cheek. The Midwife who caught her said that in general they consider that the equivalent of a baby 2 lbs bigger. So much for my "small pelvis"! Crystal's back-up, Connie, was just as awesome as Crystal was. They both offered us follow up care and it felt like my two favorite aunts were nurturing me. When we got pregnant with our third daughter it was a no-brainer: we hired Crystal again, and I had my second unmedicated, spontaneous VBAC 22 months after the first, this time with Crystal in attendance.
I think one of the most valuable things our doulas did to support us was to make sure we had all the information we needed, and that my head was "in the right space". The labor with our second daughter was intense, probably because my water broke first (SROM). Within the first hour of ctx starting they were 2 min apart. If I didn't have the terrific support of my husband and Connie (Crystal's backup) I could have easily gotten overwhelmed by it. Curiously, our third baby's labor began at 6AM and she was born in the caul at 9:04 that night. Again, if I didn't have our doula's support I might have wondered if there was something "wrong" with the labor because it was so much longer and definitely less intense.
Doulas can be amazing!
Im twoish week out from attempting my vbac. Hoping all goes well. My Csection was because of stalled labor. However my entire 30 hr induction they would let me get up and move around. And i couldnt even roll in bed. Staff was no help, baby and i were stable so there was no reason they didnt allow me out of bed. Ended up getting epidural at 6cm and never got passed 6. But im truly believing it was the fact that they wouldnt let me move in labor that cause my labor to stall out, my cervix was a firm close at induction at 39 weeks and my daughter ended up kinda crooked as she was descrnding during labor
Im so hopeful for this vbac and hoping i can avoid induction this time
Another wonderfully informative video. Thank you so very much 😌✌🏼💗🙏🏼🥰🥰🥰
Love your videos Nurse Zabe! In Jamaica and hoping for a vbac in a couple of months as well. Its not so easy to find a truly supportive ob/gyn but hoping my midwife with be here to deliver :-)
Thank you so much for this video. Doing a TOLAC in January in a kaiser hospital. Your videos are extra special to me because you look and sound just like Drew Barrymore who I adore. :D 😀
Love your channel! 💛
Thank you so much!! Hoping for a VBAC in February and this is so helpful!! ❤️❤️❤️
Alyssa Doering good luck! You got this, mama! 💗💪🏼
Zabey Baby 2015 thank you!
Im so glad ive found your channel. I only wish this was around when i was pregnant with my youngest. Watching all these labor and delivery videos is definitely preparing me for when i decide to have another some day. Ive had 2 csections and my goal is to have a successful vbac when i decide to have my next 💞 i would also like to request a video on different forms of pain management during delivery maybe?
Paige Hessong Yes, I’m working on this!
Thank you very much for this very informative yet heartfelt video! It was very useful!
Happy i found your vlogs they are really educative and helping get rid of nervousness am expecting my third child and wish for a successful VBACs i actually had a C-section with my daughter 2in 2013 due to failure to labour am praying for a safe delivery and a healthy baby and me too. Kindly help me with how to count pregnancy weeks my last periods was from 19th to 22nd of January will appreciate your help thanks in advance dear
Hi, you have 25 weeks pregnant! And you should deliver by 26th of October! Use an online calculator! 🤗
@@yessicalopez8604 thanks so much dear and more blessings your way 😊
Yay!!! Thank you so much! I'm so excited to watch this!
I wish you could be my L&D nurse😉 I've already had a successful vbac but for some reason I feel like I still have to fight for a 2nd vbac. Drs are scapel happy these days.
Brenda Gonzalez You got this, girl!
I had three vaginal births, two of them at home with no interventions at all, and then an emergency c-section with my fourth (turned out he had chorioamnionitis, cord vasculitis, and a clot under the placenta, which put him into distress and he had heart decels and thick meconium, plus he was OP (anterior placenta and he just loved having his face up against it) and just wouldn't descend, so I never got past 4 cm), and it SUCKED. It was horrible. I was in excruciating pain and woke up in tears every morning for the first 10 days, I had to stay an extra night in the hospital to get the pain under control better (I loathe being in the hospital and would rather go home ASAP; for me, it is not a fun vacation from my other kids like some people say it is for them, it's just being constantly pestered and unable to sleep, unable to relax, just wanting to leave and snuggle my baby in my own bed, the food that I can safely eat is garbage, etc.), I had nerve damage that took several months to get better, I couldn't even change diapers without lots of discomfort and weakness. I don't plan on having any more, but if I do ever have another baby, I would jump through flaming hoops to avoid another c-section. I'd even do it naturally again if I had to, and one of my natural births was absolutely awful as well (40 hours of labor, separated pelvis, BIG headed baby).
Hi Elizabeth! I love your videos. I just recently got the crazy idea that I want to become an L&D nurse. For the longest time I wanted to go into law enforcement. Watching your videos and some TV shows changed my mind. I was wondering if you could make a video on how you decided to become an L&D nurse, what the process was (schooling & hiring) and maybe the pros/cons. I hope that if I ever become a nurse that i’m half the nurse you are! You seem so kind and compassionate. Definitely someone to look up to 💓
I’m 35wks +1day and my goal is to have a VBAC but I’m plus sized and I’m beyond scared about vaginal rupture.. this video did help me a little bit! I’m just very nervous. My first was an emergency c section, my doctor was pretty confident I’d be able to do a VBAC today but I’m not sure if the incision on my uterus is diagonal or vertical. The scar I have is diagonal on my bikini line but idk about the one inside.
Placing an epidural is not necessary at all or good if you don't want one. I asked my doctor in my first and she told me in a true emergency they will not have time to give you the medication for the C-section which is not the same as epidural medication abd they have to wait for it to work and in an emergency they don't have time to wait and general anesthesia would have to be used. So no do not get a catheter epidural placed just in case.
I had an emergency c section after a failed induction in June 2020. Im suffering a lot from ptsd and pnd because of it. Im now planning to have a vbac in a few years once the chances of vbac are higher so Im wanting to get informed years in advanced so there is a 100% of having a positive birth next time. My therapist is putting me in contact with a midwife to have a debrief to figure out my risk level so that I can decide when/if I have my next baby x
I’m a great candidate for a VBAC, but unfortunately my doctor doesn’t do them...so I’d have to go to a different one and it’s already taken me 3 years to get used to my doctor. I’m so sad that I have to get a c-section again.
If it took you 3 years to get used to your doctor, maybe hes not that good and you would be better off with someone else...
I changed docs at my 3rd trimester and did not regret it
Thanks a lot for this video Elizabeth🙏🏽. I watched your videos religiously when I was pregnant last year, 2022. However my baby was late as my due date was the 6th of august and I was scheduled for an induction on the 12th of August at about 40+5, but on getting to the hospital and doing the scan, it was discovered I had no amniotic fluid so I was advised to have an emergency C-section and no longer the induction as planned, which made me so anxious and scared, thankfully baby and I were amazing. Do you please have any tips on how to avoid low amniotic fluid and also tips on having a successful vbac. I’d like to try for another baby soon but I’m really scared of what to expect as low amniotic fluid doesn’t seem to be a common situation upon doing research.
Thanks a lot for helping us all❤
I am so upset at our medical system that pretty much forced d&cs and csections when unnecessary thank God they are recognizing NOW how wrong they were
VBAC 12.5 months after an emergency C-Section as a result of cord prolapse? One doc says it’s fine and I’m a great candidate and one said absolutely and just about laughed in my face!
I had a natural not induced first birth exactly on due date ( with routine amniotomy on 8cm, oxytocin in third period of labour); second birth - emergency c-section on 35,5, because of overtiredness ( heavy long travelling in cold weather, difficult life condition), after mucus plug fell out I went to hospital 🤦♀️ and got oxytocin drip, after - hellfire...With 3rd baby I got a planned c-section, because agreed under psychological pressure of care provider. My baby was 2300 kg on 37weeks of gestational age, because his mom overdose with exercises and fasting, religious dry fasting ( in religion told you not fast, if it can harm you or your baby). Placental circulation was good, baby symmetric, healthy, no any another health issues except 2300kg, I'm small size myself, there was a lack of communication with obstetrician ...With first baby I didn't fast and his weight was normal (3200kg). After it I made analysis point by point, getting the right knowledges...Originally I and my babies were relatively healthy and normal pregnancies. Now I'm pregnant 4th and my chances of successful VBAC-2 are high, I'm 36 y.o. fit woman. I'm avoiding previous mistakes, learning a lot, preparing me physically and mentally, +birth plan,...a COMMUNICATION with obstetrician!!!
My first child was breech so I had a C-section. With my second pregnancy I wanted a vbac. My county however will not do vbac so I was gonna drive a little over two hours away to do one but I was blessed with IVF twins, so I figured it will be safer to do another c-section plus I’m dealing with a a incompetent cervix and I have a cerclage.
Mom to a boy, dogs, and dolls Congrats on your twins. I totally get why you would decide to have another c-section with everything going on with this pregnancy. I hope it continues smoothly and those sweet little peanuts stay in and cook for as long as possible!!
Elizabeth! You are truly amazing at what you do! The knowledge of yours is impeccable, simple, and wealthy to all women of every race. I do urge many to be well informed. God created all women to give birth! Therefore, to acquire wisdom is critical.
I had a C-section 7 years ago and I’m currently 39 weeks pregnant 🤰 my dr tells me that I’m in risk of a uterus rupture but I mean it’s been 7 years I feel like his not supportive at all my C-section was horizontal and small my daughter was only 32 weeks when she was born.. they told me that I can’t get induced but if my body doesn’t do it on its own I will get a C-section at 41 weeks
I had a C-section and recovered very quickly. I thought it was a great experience and an easy recovery. I was even released from the hospital after less than 48 hours. All of the doctors keep telling me I would be a great candidate for a VBAC. I am not going to have anymore children (1 and done!), but I feel like if I did I would lean more toward an elective C-section. I am glad I won't have to make that decision because there are a lot of pros and cons on both sides.
Ugly Vegan And it is totally your right to decide to just have a repeat c-section if you were to ever need to deliver a baby again! 💗
I agree I had a c section a month ago and would lean toward another c-section. It was great experience for me as well.
@@samv6332 😢
I love your channel! 💜💜💜
I love you so much
You really give me hope for my upcoming Birth
You got this, mama! 💪🏼💗
I want a vbac so badly but my provider was very dishonest and is actually completely unsupportive. I've been scheduled a c section that I don't want so I'm hoping I go into labor on my own before then
I had a vbac two and a half weeks ago to get to the hospital that would do a vbac I was 5 cm dilated and had started to have contractions when we got there they were getting more intense so I cannot get any sleep so the nurse finally asked if I would like some pain killer and I said yes so she gave me pain killer so I could get some sleep but it did not wear off like it should have so I was completely out of it when it came time to have baby. Baby's heartbeat had dropped while he was in the birth canal so they had to get him out quickly they used forceps. I was in so much pain after the fact it definitely felt like something was wrong but they sent me home 24 hours after even though I was in so much pain. I ended up back in the hospital that Friday because I got to the point that I could not move due to being in so much pain my husband actually had to call an ambulance I had lost two units of blood somehow and nobody knew where it disappeared to because I had not been bleeding that heavy after I had the baby. I have been home for a week now and I'm doing a little bit better I can see that I have quite the recovery ahead of me.
Great timing! I'm hoping for a VBAC in April!
Good luck! You got this, mama! 💗💪
Had an emergency c section with my first (fetal distress caus he was tangled in his cord). Because we don't know how many children we want I really wanted a VBAC.
Trusted my body a little too much and ended up having an unplanned homebirth at 41 weeks but I am happy I turned down the elective c section at 39 weeks.
Paige Gordon “Trusted my body a little too much” 😂😂 Congrats on your VBAC!
Your videos are just great. It’s a shame I have come across your channel after I had my son.
I have gone through a very traumatic birthing experience (induced at 36 weeks due to pre eclampsia, 48hrs of moderate contractions-0 dilation, then another 48 hrs of strong contractions and only 3cm dilation). They’ve tried everything on me and it just did not work. I finally got an epidural after almost 4 days of contractions and got an infection (i guess because of the urinary catheter) and they had to take me for an emergency C-section. At this point I did not care anymore. I was tired, angry at myself and the doctors and absolutely hopeless. Luckily my son was okay, he did have an infection at birth but otherwise he was fine. He’s 14 months now but I still cannot get over this. My dreams of having a big family and 3-4 kids are shattered and I am not sure I will ever try for another baby. If I do, there is little chance I will consider VB, I would rather have a planned C-section. My recovery from c-section was quick and easy so I am not scared of that to be honest. But just thinking about VB makes me shiver. Things might change, who knows... but I just want to thank you for making these videos, they are just so inspirational
Do you mind to make a video on pre eclampsia? I still do not quite understand what it is and why did I develop it out of nowhere...
Many thanks in advance and greeting from London, UK 😊
Jekaterina Birger I’m so sorry you had such a difficult delivery. Thankful you and your son were ok and that the recovery was a good experience for you. I mentioned at the end of the video that it is 100% ok if you just plan on having a repeat csection! I can also totally work on a video on pre-eclampsia
I am so sorry that this happened to you. I recently experienced Preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome at 39 weeks with my 1st pregnancy and had to have an emergency c-section. It was very traumatic. My Dr. told me I should wait a year and 1/2 or up to 2 years to have another baby. I have always dreamed of a big family too, but now I am so scared that things will go wrong again.
I have had preeclampsia with all 6 of my babies, the first 4 were inducted and last 2 were natural. I'm pregnant with number 7. Let me tell you it gets easier the more I've had. You still have to be careful and monitor the signs but each one has been healthy and I've been just fine 👍🏻👍🏻
Can you also make the opposite video? What the advantages of a repeat c-section are and why a doctorwould require it? I'm in a city/county where repeat c-section is the only option.
Hey lovey, this may be a long shot, but recently in my state, we lost a woman in childbirth. Her organs shut down after she brought her son into the world. This is extremely scary for me, and heartbreaking. Could you make a video on childbirth risks and conditions?
I never knew about this...great info......
I'm 23+4 weeks along, my last baby was a csection and my doctor is telling me I'm having another csection because of my gestational diabetes and my being 36 years old. I told her I want a vbac, but she has told me she'll not allow it. I'm currently looking for a new doctor
My mom had a Vbac :) I guess. My brother and I were born at 27 weeks. We were to small or something for her to deliver us naturally. Or was it one of us was breach. Hmm... anyways. After that she had my brother and sister naturally. :) so my twin and I were her first and only cesarean. Good job my mom.
Love the advice!
I’m desperately wanting a VBAC this baby. My first baby was vaginal easy peasy. My second was emergency c section at 32 weeks because the ultrasound indicated IUGR. He was born at 4 lbs even. This baby, I’m 12 weeks, every dr my insurance takes in the area refuses a VBAC because they quote uterine rupture rates are high...but there’s no validation to this because I can never get a straight answer from them on the why it pertains to me. The hospital accepts VBACS here in Daytona, Halifax. I’m so stressed out and I’m beginning to feel like I’m being forced by these male Drs to allow them to rip my body open: I’m sorry, I’m a survivor and I’m not in that idea at all. Why are American Drs like this?
Hello, did you get the vbac?
Also is it even possible to have vbac after having 2 csections? With my first I was fully dialed and ready to push but my doctor didn’t want to risk it because my sons heart beat would go down with each contraction. And with my second everything went well I healed up well no complications
You. Are. Amazing.
I feel so lucky to have came across your videos at the perfect time in my life. You've already given me so much knowledge & insight, leaving me significantly more confident & comfortable with the process. I'm looking forward to learning even more from you as my pregnancy progresses.
I can't thank you enough!! 💙
Also, if you could possibly do a vid on the role & benefits of a labor doula it would be awesome!!
Would love a video on weaning ! Especially from someone like you who did extended breastfeeding. I’m planning to breastfeed till 18-24 months but no idea now to wean and everyone keeps telling me I’m naking it harder for myself to wean but I want to breastfeed till then 😫
What advice would you give to moms who are overweight but otherwise are good candidate for a Vbac. What can they do during the pregnancy to increase their chances?
My mom had a vbac birth in her 40s at home for her 7th child, it went so well and fast she almost had her on the toilet, the midwife caught my sister mid air!
Could you do a video on breastfeeding and when it may not be best to breastfeed and the feelings associated with it? I gave birth 6 days ago and decided long before we were formula feeding due to my bipolar. As my due date neared, I expressed a little more interest but again reminded myself it wasn’t the right thing for me. Now I’m crying because I want to breastfeed and in absolutely heartbroken that I can’t/shouldn’t due to needing to get back on a mood stabilizer, but I’m not really sure why I want to so badly all of a sudden when I was pretty neutral about the whole thing before. 😭
Well before you gave birth it, even though you knew you were going to have a baby, its hard to realize how much everything changes the moment that they're born. Just because you chose not to breastfeed for your own health, doesn't make you any less of a wonderful mom.
Talk to your doctor at your one week check up about your feelings and possible options. And give yourself a break! You just went through one of the most intense/magical events of your life. And you've still got all of the pregnancy hormones that are going to be sticking around for a while.
You can do this, just breathe!
Talk to your psychiatrist and doctor. I'm bipolar and successfully breastfed for 14 months with a change of meds and lots of support and check ins
Laura Hutcheson Thank you Laura; that means the world. ❤️
Ugh, should I get pregnant again I want to avoid an epidural like the plague. I had not just one but TWO FAILED EPIDURALS! It was AWFUL!!!!
I'm trying for a vba2c next year! I've never labored before at all, first two kids scheduled at 38 weeks exactly. Since my body hasn't experienced labor I'm assuming that means the whole, "second, third baby comes faster" theory doesn't apply?
I’ve had 2 csections unfortunately... I want a vbac so bad! Ugh...
Dont give up, you can do it!
Labor question how to work with labor nurses? I know, from tons of experience getting IVs that my elbow on my right arm is the best spot. Most labor nurses fight with me and say "you can't have it in your elbow"...I understand that they don't want you to pinch it by moving but I would rather keep one arm straight (even if it's slightly awkward). Then have my iv blow a vein, end up being poked several times before getting it in and ending up with bruises all up my arms.
How can I polite explain this to a nurse quickly in a way that is persuasive?
Currently 40wks and 1day. Im trying for a vbac but my Dr has recommended a repeat csection at 41 weeks. So far, the baby and I are healthy and everything is ok. I want to wait until 42 weeks. What time line would you recommend?
You mentioned the possibility of getting pneumonia after a C-section. How common is that? I actually got pneumonia after my first c-section and it was very bad and tramatic.
Michelle Nelson I’m not 100% sure of a statistic, especially since that is a complication that is more likely to happen once you’ve been discharged. But with any surgery, pneumonia is a possible complication. The best way to combat this is get up and move ASAP and use your incentive spirometer to help expand your lungs and prevent infection. I’m sorry you had to go through that. Coughing with an abdominal incision is no joke. 😩
Do you think the chances of the VBAC being successful go up if you do not have an epidural? Even with a nurse moving you, that's not nearly as much movement as it would be normally. Plus you're still in a bed... I have my heart absolutely set on a VBAC, but my entire medical team seems so against it. It's very disheartening.
This makes me so sad. I always knew I wanted a vbac after having a c section with my first and with my second I went in asking all the questions and he told me he didn’t do them but he knew someone and I was going to talk to her in the future but he would always scary me about the risk never encourage it. So I ended up having a repeat csection.
Thanks for your tips. You favor Drew Barrymore
I sooooo tried with all i am to have a vback with my second.. :( Even with trying to go to a hospital that would allow me too.. But becouse my INSURANCE wouldnt allow it.. Said i was to much of a liability if i went vaginal.. And would not cover my hospital bill... I think i could have had him the way i wanted if it wasn't for that..
Tina Williams That is ridiculous. I’m so sorry!
I dont know if you have a video of just epidural, but im scared of epidural I'm scared of a gisnt needle going near my spine. I dont know much about epidural and ive only heard some things about it. My fear is that I get the epidural and something happens when the doctor is inserting the needle and I become paralyzed.... I know it sounds so stupid... But I dont know what to do.
The hospital I went to didnt alow me to get up and move at all ended up having a c section.