Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC)
In the late 1980′s early 1990′s “once a cesarean section, always a cesarean section” was the mantra by most medical facilities. By the late 90′s the cesarean rates were slowly dropping and vaginal birth after a cesarean were on the rise. The over use of an induction drug called cytotec in a previous or present labor can increase the risk for uterine rupture. This drug was not intended for pregnant women! The statistics still prove that it is safer in the vast majority of women to birth vaginally, even if she once had a surgical birth (ican.org). Here are some mind blowing 2009 statistics (theunnecesarean.com from the center for disease control). Keep in mind that the World Health Organization allows for up 10%:
- USA cesarean rate is 32.3%
- Pennsylvania c-section rate is 30.9%
- St. Clair Hospital is 37.7%
- St. Lukes Bethlehem is 35.9%
- St. Lukes Allentown is 35%
- Easton Hospital is 35.5%
- Moses Taylor Hospital is 33%
- Gnadden Huetten Hospital is 28.9%
- Lehigh Valley Hospital is 26%
- Pocono Medical Center is 25.5%
- NJ 40%
- Morristown Hospital is 25.5%
- Hackettstown Hospital is 18.4%
These rates reflect over half being repeat ceserean sections.
If you’ve experienced a surgical birth and would like to have a vaginal birth, then this class will cover everything you need to prepare your mind, body and spirit. Having had 4 VBACs myself gives me insider info as well as all the education I’ve gone through.We will cover:
- healing from prior birth
- how to avoid the intervention trap
- comfort strategies
- partner tips
- help find a VBAC friendly birthing sanctuary as well as VBAC friendly practitioner