[Jenn1320]

I really didn't have a reaction with the drink. Was tough going down, blech, but didn't really feel any different. Hope that was a good sign! LO was really kicking though- kicking all through my appointment. My doctor even commented and laughed as she was measuring me. You could see my whole belly moving.

All looks good and I start 2 week appts now. So I'll return May 14th- wow!

She discussed my VBAC today and had two suggestions that I was kinda "meh" on- wanted to get your opinions.

First thing is she wants both an external and internal monitor right off the bat. She said with rupture odds at 1 in 108 deliveries she feels it is best. Not necessarily a scalp monitor, but just an internal (I didn't know that even existed).

Second thing is she wants me to have an epidural once contractions are going strong. I had planned on that anyway, but she said, "That way it is in place in case a c-section is needed". I just found that comment maybe, fatalistic?

I am trying really hard to be open-minded in case I need another c-section, I really am, but I just want to try my best for the VBAC.

Also she said prepare for another posterior birth b/c she feels that is just my pelvis shape/body size. I asked about the epidural and internal monitor affecting my ability to help get the baby in optimum position and she said, "Well you won't be flat on your back - that's for sure. The bed can be tilted up so you'll have that". Hm.

So both good and blah news.

[Mountain~Mama]

I agree with you, good and bad news. It's great that they are letting you try for sure. Do you know what their success rate is for VBAC?

I'm not surprised that they want to monitor you but it sure doesn't leave you much room to move around and be comfortable. I suck at math but isn't 1 in 108 less than 1%? Not a huge risk in my opinion. How many c-sections have you had previously and how long ago was your last?

As far as her reasoning for the epidural and the c-section - I'd think you'd be better off NOT getting one if you needed a c-section because then you could get a spinal which would block all feelings. I'd think with just a epidural you'd have more of a chance of needing general anesthetic if you could still feel too much. (This just happened to a friend of mine.) I'm no expert but her reason doesn't make sense to me, maybe there is more to it.

I do know that an induction makes it much much more risky so I'd avoid that at all costs.

I wish you the very best Jenn. I hope it turns out perfect for you!!

[Jenn1320]

Thanks so much, Melanie!

I've had one c-section (Owen)- and it was December 2009.

I don't know their VBAC rate, but overall c-section rate is 15%, so not horrible. My big issue is posterior babies, which all three have been. Owen was trying to come out with his chin, which tilted his head back and accelerated his h/r.

I'll have to ask about spinal vs epi. I know with Owen I'd had the epi, which was then added to when the c-section was needed. My doctor did say to request a low dose-- that it should be fine.

I appreciate your advice!

Oh, and I'm thinking it's like .08%- so doesn't sound too high, especially when you look at it like that.

[Mountain~Mama]

I wondered if they could increase the epi. I didn't have one with Audrey so they did the spinal in the OR and the same with Sam since she was scheduled.

Is there anyway they can turn the baby so they don't come out posterior? Have you checked out the spinning babies website? Spinning Babies Home | spinningbabies.com


This looked like a good conversation too.
Turning A Posterior Baby - AllDoulas.com

[Mountain~Mama]

Have you considered hiring a doula? They may be able to help you be more successful and have more/different ideas than your Dr might?

[junie22]

I can't offer any words of advice on VBAC, but I just wanted to say that I'm glad the first part of your appointment went well. Hope you get things figured out and are able to have the VBAC that you want.

[georgiabrit]

I typed a big long response to this on my phone while i was waiting for my hour GTT, then it wouldn't post! But basically i think i said my doctors want pretty much the same conditions for my VBA2C (2001 and 2005) , and so i've kinda decided if i go into labor i will labor at home for as long as i can, to allow me the freedom of movement i want it would be lovely to go in being about 8 cm dilated!! However, in the real and typical world of me, i'll probably go overdue and have a battle on my hands but it sounds like we have the same concerns!

Good luck to both of us in getting our VBACs!

Polly

[Mod-Lady Valkyrie]

I really hope it turns out a lot better than you're expecting xxx

[Sour Amaretto]

Glad you got the drink down...I seriously hate the GTT test LOL
WIsh I had advice for the VBAC, lots of luck! Do your research and do what you are comfortable with!

[Jenn1320]

Thanks so much, everyone!

They successfully turned my first two, but Owen was just bigger and refused to budge. I'm praying for a smaller baby this time!

I've been reading on spinningbabies. I will definitely check out the other link. Thank you!

I've considered a doula, but just never really felt comfortable with it...not sure why.

[Mountain~Mama]

Of course you don't want to do anything you aren't comfortable with but I just want to say, my doula was amazing. She actually had just finished her training and had to assist in so many births to be certified so she didn't charge us. I was induced with pitocin and all my pain was in my hips - they felt like they were going to explode with every contraction. She knew to push my hips together during contractions which helped the pain so much. My husband would never have known to do that. She also was there so my husband could take a nap for awhile (he'd worked the night before and had been awake going on 24+ hours and was exhausted.) If I could have a vbac I would hire a doula for sure!

Maybe Que can chime in on what more they could do for you too.

[Jenn1320]

I have read so much the last couple of days about doulas- and how great they are. I wish I could find a free one like you - then I'd do it I think. We just paid our doctor's fee $2,500, ugh, can't see adding to that right now.

My DH is always great in the delivery room, but I agree, he doesn't know all the tricks for easing labor and/or turning a posterior baby.

I've been trying the spinning babies exercises. I'm feeling information overload.

[Mountain~Mama]

We found our doula through our birthing class, the instructor was the person who trained them. If you are interested you might try here DONA International – Find a Trainer to find a trainer that might be able to get you in touch with a student.

I totally understand about the money part of it. I just got a bill today for blood test that was over 800 bucks! We will end up paying 6k by the time we are done with this pregnancy/birth.

[Jenn1320]

Thanks for that link. I googled Dallas area doulas and didn't find much, surprisingly. Then DH came home and I mentioned it, and he is not on board. Still researching...

DID decide that I don't want that 2nd internal monitor my doc is requesting! They have to break your water for that- no thanks!!!