One of our past clients, Ashlee, is a local Fayetteville mother of seven children. By finding supportive medical providers and preparing for her TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean), Ashlee experienced three successful VBACs following the cesarean delivery of her twins. Read more on VBACs on another one of our blog posts.
Ashlee shared some of her story with us…
Please share a little about your pregnancy journey over the years.
I have had eight pregnancies, seven beautiful babies, and one twin birth. All of my pregnancies were pretty rough, especially in the beginning. I had hyperemesis with all of my pregnancies and as my family grew, it was challenging to keep up with daily life. Having a twin pregnancy came with a unique set of challenges. I also dealt with pre-term labor and polyhydramnios.
What was the reason you had to have a c-section?
I had a c-section for the birth of my twins due to my little guy (Baby A) being breeched.
Did you immediately know a VBAC was an option? Were providers open with you about the options? Where did you find the most resources about a VBAC?
I did not immediately know that VBAC was an option, but I did a lot of research. Initially, my provider did not support my first VBAC and I had to advocate for myself. It was a hard experience with lots of tears. I ended up switching providers and hospitals entirely when I attempted my 2nd and 3rd VBAC.
Did you feel support from friends or family to go a certain way? VBAC or Cesarean?
My friends, doula (Aida), and family knew my wishes for a VBAC and completely supported my decision. My husband was a rock star advocate during my labor at the hospital so that I could focus on my labor and impending birth.
How was the healing process after the VBAC? Any different than a vaginal birth you experienced before?
My recoveries after VBAC were very different from my recoveries after my initial vaginal births (prior to my cesarean). I felt physically quite limited and was not able to get up and move around as quickly after birth as I was used to. That was a very different experience for me, and I had to wrap my head around allowing myself to rest mentally and my body to heal.
What would you like someone to know who is debating a VBAC? What is something you wish you knew going into it?
Since my c-section, I have gone on to have three uncomplicated vaginal deliveries. Every woman’s body is different, but having a good support team (your providers, friends, partner, and hospital) can make all the difference. Understand that it’s your doctor’s responsibility to give you the facts. Empower yourself to make an informed decision about what’s best for you and your baby. Do your research, reach out to other VBAC moms, find your support team, and of course, hire Central Carolina Doulas.
Contact us for your free consultation today!
Confused by the terms and acronyms? Here is a list that may be helpful as you research what the best choice is for your next childbirth:
- CBAC: Cesarean Birth After Cesarean (typically when TOLAC results in cesarean)
- C-Section: Cesarean Section
- ERCS: Elective Repeat Cesarean Section
- Hyperemesis: condition during pregnancy of persistent vomiting leading to weight loss and dehydration
- Polyhydramnios: presence of too much amniotic fluid in the womb
- TOLAC: Trial of Labor After Cesarean
- VBAC: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean
- V2BAC: 2 Vaginal Births After Cesarean
- VBA2C: Vaginal Birth After 2 Cesareans
- VBAMC: Vaginal Birth After Multiple Cesareans
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