QuestionI have had two prior c sections and im pregnant now with my third baby. The previous ones were for fetal distress (baby heartrate was too low) but i was dilating fine and if the baby behaves i can have natural labor. Problem is my midwife (or anyone else for that matter) is not willing to let me have a trial of labor. They scheduled a C section date already and im only 17 weeks!! I dunno what to do, i cant find a doctor that is willing to help me, so i spoke to DH and told him that one week before my scheduled Section i wanna induce myself (as i did before with my 2nd because i went overdue with my first) I simply did nipple stimulation and off to labor i went. SO i plan on inducing the same way and staying home as long as i can, so that when i do go to the hospital i will be dilated at least 7cm (i work at an ob/gyn office so the doc has shown me and hubby how to measure) and thats the only way they will let me have a vaginal delivery, if i get there and am quite dilated. I know its the craziest thing i will ever do but i dunno what else to do. I had very bad c section experiences and i almost died so im very afraid and i dunno what else to do. Please give me some input!!! By the way i have taken precautions. I bought a fetal heartrate monitor so in case the baby needs help i'll call 911 since his/her life IS ALWAYS before mine no matter what! HELP im soo confused!!
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AnswerStaying home as long as possible is a very reasonable plan, and many women do this. In order to be responsible and prepared, though, you need to be fully prepared for a possible unassisted homebirth. Birth can progress unexpectedly fast, and you could end up delivering before you can get to the hospital. Make extra sure you are familiar with the emotional signposts of labor, and have the minimum supplies on hand at home in case you need them, such as something to tie the cord off with, chux pads, etc.
Something else you might want to look into is finding a midwife to attend you at home. This way, you won't be facing going into a hostile hospital environment at any point in labor unless you have problems, and the midwife will be there to monitor everything and put your mind at ease. Even though doctors may not be willing to take you on for a VBA2C, you may find a midwife more easily. Check with ICAN in your area for recommendations.
You are 100% within your rights to refuse a repeat c-section, and you are not crazy for doing everything you can to achieve the best, safest birth for you and your baby. Good luck!
