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WHILE VBAC CARRIES RISKS, IT ALSO OFFERS THE POSSIBILITY OF A QUICKER RECOVERY AND A MORE a ANE BIRTHING EXPERIENCE. RISKS AND ADVANTAGES Michelle knew it was risky attempting VBAC after two previous C-sections, but she was determined to give it a try. “I really wanted to experience natural childbirth,” she says. There are many benefits to VBAC. “Compared to a repeat C-section, VBAC usually involves a shorter hospital stay and recovery period,” comments Dr Lindeque. There is also a lower risk of surgical complications. “It reduces the chances of complications of a repeat C-section.” After investigating every possibility, including having a home birth with a midwife, Michelle heard someone recommend a gynae who supports VBAC. “I had to wait three months to get a slot to see him and so had my first gynae appointment at 25 weeks,” she says. “To say that he’s a wonderful doctor is an understatement,” she says. “He was very thorough and frank about the risks and success rate, based on my gestational history and the restrictions of the hospital, including that his partners didn’t support VBAC. Once everything had been explained to me, he never mentioned it again and treated me as though | was having my first pregnancy.” One of the biggest risks associated with VBAC is uterine rupture which can occur when the scar from the previous C-section tears open during labour. “This is a severe medical emergency with high mortality rates for baby and mom,” says Dr Lindeque. “Another risk is that you may end up having to have an emergency C-section during labour.” This happens in about 25 out of 100 women. For Michelle, the benefits far outweighed the risks. “Il was so glad not to have to have an elective repeat C-section,” she says. “This would have been done at 38 weeks and, as it turned out, | lasted 40 weeks and six days.” The result of her labour was a healthy baby girl. “My daughter was born with minimal complications 26 hours after my contractions started,” she says. “I’m so grateful to those who supported me on this journey.” =
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