VBAC vs. C-Section After Bronchiectasis & Asthma: A Pregnancy Dilemma

Question
I had a water baby 5 1/2 years ago who lived only 52 minutes. Michaela was born via c-section (horizontal cuts). I'm now 42, have bronchiectesis and asthma (since I had pneumonia 4 years ago), and am 31 weeks pregnant with a son. I'm torn between VBAC and c-section. I want to do what's best for both  myself and my son. My doc says c-section would be safest except he is concerned I may develop pneumonia with a c-section because of my chronic lung problem (I did not have during the first pregnancy). I'm confused and worried. This will be my last pregnancy and so want to have a healthy child.  

Answer
Discuss this with your pulmonary doctor. As long as you do not use general anesthesia and only use regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural) you should not have any problems with your bronchiectesis or asthma. (I assume your asthma is under control with a nebulizer and medication, if needed). A cesarean section does not necessarily cause pneumonia. What was the reason for the cesarean section? There is really no reason not to have a VBAC unless the same cause for the first cesarean section occurs again. Discuss it in depth with your obstetrician. I do not know enough about your current condition to give too much of an opinion. Good luck.