HomeAnswersObstetrics and GynecologyvbacIs it safe for me to opt for VBAC for my second pregnancy?

Is VBAC safer than repeated cesarean section?

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Published At March 21, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 25, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had a category 2 cesarean section a few years back. I am pregnant again. I wanted to know if I am a good candidate for a VBAC, given my background for the cesarean I had two years ago.

I would like to understand the following:

1. Why was my son in fetal distress? Why did he have heart declarations and arrive in poor condition and need resuscitation by oxygen?

2. Why did my bladder move up?

3. Why did the surgeon mention a small pelvis? I thought women are made to give birth, and the pelvis opens during labor, and so is the baby's head moldable.

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can provide some information based on what you have shared.

Regarding your son's fetal distress and poor condition at birth, it is possible that there were underlying medical issues that caused this. Fetal distress can be caused by a variety of factors, including decreased oxygen supply, infection, or placental insufficiency. Heart declarations could indicate an abnormal heart rhythm or enlargement of the heart due to fluid buildup. It is also possible that your son's poor condition at birth was due to complications during delivery, such as difficulty with the birth canal or a lack of oxygen during the birth process.

Regarding your bladder moving up, this is a relatively common occurrence during pregnancy and childbirth. As the uterus grows and puts pressure on the bladder, it can cause it to move upward into the abdomen. This is known as a "distended bladder" or "urinary retention." During childbirth, the pressure from the baby's head on the bladder can also cause it to move upward.

The surgeon's mention of a small pelvis could indicate that your pelvis is smaller than average, which could make it more difficult for your baby to pass through during childbirth. However, it is important to note that many women with smaller pelvises are still able to give birth vaginally without any complications. Some women with smaller pelvises may even find childbirth easier because they have less pain and discomfort during labor due to less pressure on their pelvic floor muscles.

Regarding the risks of uterine rupture versus c-section complications, both procedures have their own set of risks and benefits. Uterine rupture is a rare but serious complication that can occur during childbirth in women who have had a previous c-section. It occurs when the scar from the previous c-section tears open, allowing the baby to pass into the abdominal cavity instead of through the birth canal. The risks of uterine rupture are higher in women who have had multiple c-sections or who are carrying a larger baby than in previous pregnancies. However, the risks of uterine rupture are still relatively low, and many women can successfully deliver vaginally after a previous c-section without any complications.

Ultimately, the decision about whether to attempt a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) or opt for an elective c-section will depend on a variety of factors, including your medical history, your current pregnancy status, and your personal preferences and values. It is important to discuss these options with your healthcare provider and weigh the potential risks and benefits carefully before making a decision.

Hope it helps.

Thanks and regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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