Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Section

Complications

The old rule that said once a cesarean section always a cesarean section is no longer true. Many women are now choosing vaginal birth after they have had a cesarean section for many reasons and benefits.

The benefits of a vaginal birth over a cesarean section include medical, risk of death of the mother is lower with a vaginal birth, less probability of infections such as endometritis, bladder infections and infections at the point of the incisions, less blood loss, less urinary tract infection, less injuries to the bowels, and less emotional problems.

The reasons mothers are now preferring vaginal birth over cesarean section include

Vaginal birth is safer than cesarean section for both mother and baby
Vaginal birth does not cost as much as cesarean section
The ability to be more involved in the delivery
The pain is less after delivery
Feeling of accomplishment
Less chance of a premature baby
Less blood loss
The father and other family members can share in the birth

Many women have problems adjusting after a cesarean section, feelings of inadequacy, loss of the interaction with spouse during delivery, not being able to actually participate, and even the chance to hold the baby close after delivery are taken away because the mom will have to be receive stitches therefore she will not be able to breast feed immediately. All of things feelings are real problems for some moms and it can make post-partum more difficult.

Financially a vaginal birth is much better on your wallet. A cesarean section normally cost around $3,000 more than a vaginal birth. Some insurance companies will help with the fee but learn what your co-payment is and you may see that you are still paying quite a bit of money for a cesarean section.

If you decide to have, a vaginal birth after your first baby was born cesarean section it would be best to talk with your doctor. Sometimes, it may be necessary according to the reasons you had a cesarean section to also have this baby in the same manner. If your doctor believes that a vaginal birth is fine, then you should attend a birthing class that is designed for parents that are planning a vaginal birth after a cesarean section. These classes can better prepare you for the special needs and preparations that are important for you to have a healthy vaginal birth after cesarean section.