Small gap between Csection & VBAC - is it possible????

[kitten80]

Hi

I had a topic I posted not long ago about trying for a VBAC in Qld. I have now discovered I am preggers!!!! I am am soooo scared - I really don't want to have another c-section but I don't think anyone will let me try now with such a small gap between pregnancies (only 17 months between births)!

I really didn't think I would get pregnant so quickly - both DH and myself have problems in the fertility department and needed help with DD!!! It always happens when you least expect it doesn't it. I was planning on doing all my VBAC research in advance for next year when TTC (well not now).

Everywhere I look is pretty much saying 24 months (18 months minimum!!)

Has anyone had any VBAC experience in this department?

Thanks in advance!

[krisp]

Hi Kitten, my two minchkins are only 18 months apart and I had no problems at all. Go with a Dr who is experienced and supportive of VBAC's and you'll do just fine. xx

[Traveller]

My sister had 14 months between births. She did not VBAC but this was her preference, and her OB strongly encouraged her to have a vaginal birth so obviously not all health professionals are concerned by the small gap.

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

T
xx

[Arimeh]

I was due with DD2 only 15 and a bit months after having DD1 - however, went nearly 2 weeks over, so is just under 16 months between them now.

My OB said 18 months is preferable, but didn't say anything about the 15 month age gap.

[Alan]

Hi Kitten
We need to try to change our mind set here. It should not be ‘if they let you’ It is your body and if anyone takes a knife to it without your permission then that is assault. Talk to your OB and see what he/she says, you may be surprised. In the end if you rock up to the hospital in labour and refuse a CS there is very little they can do about it.

[*Infinity*]

Hi Kitten

I am planning a VBAC in a few months time and if I reach my due date I'll have just short of 16 months between my babies. You hear lots of differing opinions about the 'ideal' age gap between c-sections from both the medical profession and experienced mums but based on my research there is no real evidence to suggest that a particular gap is better / safer than others. I am not concerned at all about the age gap for us.

We need to try to change our mind set here. It should not be ‘if they let you’ It is your body and if anyone takes a knife to it without your permission then that is assault.

Alan has said it beautifully. This is your body, your baby and your choice. Its not about anyone 'letting you' its about you exercising your absolute right to determine and realise the birth of your choice (whatever that may be). Sadly though, many women face obstacles in trying to achieve a VBAC so its important to educate yourself about the most supportive model of care that will put you in the best position to birth vaginally. For me, I am planning a VBAC at home with an Independent Midwife who is very experienced. She hasn't bat an eyelid (nor has anyone else) about the gap between births and nor should she. Her philosophy is to support women and their choices - not 'give permission' to me for the birth I want. Obviously homebirth is not for everyone, but I would highly encourage you to find a VBAC friendly midwife through a hospital or an OB with a proven VBAC reputation. A doula is also a great support option as well.

There are lots of amazing VBAC mumma's here on BB who are more than able to answer questions and tell you their experiences.

Good luck

[didispunk]

I was planning a VBAC with 19 months between them.. and well I contracted for 3 hours but never dialated or progressed. BUT I TRIED!!!
Find a good supportive doctor.

You will do fantastic!

[Michelle71]

My OB was happy with 12m between pregnancies. Find a supportive care giver and ask any who suggest it is unsafe to validate their position. I don't believe there is any evidence to suggest a higher rate of complications for a smaller gap between pregnancies OR any additional benefit / decrease in risks with a delay of 24m +.

There was 18m between DS and DD VBAC.

[Hannahbanana]

My OB was happy for me to VBAC with a 17 month gap between DD and DS (but I didn't educate myself and decided to have a repeat CS). His opinion was that once your CS wound was healed then it's healed, the time frame between is irrelevant. If you can truly find a supportive care provider then the gap shouldn't matter to them.

[kitten80]

Thanks everyone for all of your responses! So nice to hear so much positive advice it really reassures me.

Now I just have to find a fantastic OB?!?!?

[TUP]

Hi, I had only 12mth & 5 day's b/w mine. Although I didn't end up having a successful VBAC, I was still able to labour for 13.5 hours before the emergency c-sec. I plan to try again in Feb! Good luck I hope you get the birth you dream of

[zap]

I had a successful VBAC after having my twins via Csection 15 months before! YOU CAN DO IT!

[kitten80]

Thanks ladies!

Keep the advice & personal stories coming!!! It really is making me feel more confident that's for sure.

I'm willing to do all I can to make this happen and I am now feeling like it is not an unreasonable thing to want.