Positive Stories on 2Nd C-sections

I'm wondering after all the great stories of VBAC and the statistics and evidence that they are safer, why are you leaning toward the section that you had a hard recovery from?

My first c-section was planned...and I wasn't prepared for the pain of it all recovering. Part of it was I was trying to do too much too soon.

I was also debating between vbac and a second c-section. My ob-gyn and I talked about it - and came to conclusion 2nd c-section would probably be best for me.

Second time went SOO much better than the first time. Wasn't nearly as painful of a recovery.

Good luck!

I opted for the 2nd c-section and couldn't have been happier. I had a very easy recovery from my first c-section, and I didn't even consider doing a VBAC. I had no problems with my second c-section at all. It was planned and scheduled, and had no issues. I was very happy not to go through hard labor (and no stitches down below!). My recovery the second time was very good too.

I think I may have responded to your first request, but my first c/s was unplanned also. I've had two planned c/s since the first, and the recovery from both were both much better than my first. So, hopefully it will be the same for you if you opt for the repeat c/s. Good luck!

A.

Hi S.!

I personally went with the 2nd C-Section option. My first was an 'emergency' in the sense that they tried to induce my labor for 3 days (being 10 days overdue as well) and finally said we have to do this today, and it's going to have to be like this. I honestly didn't have a terrible time with recovery. Once they let me start walking (which I insisted on about 4 hours after) I felt ok. I was very sore, but ok. With my second child, I had no intentions of trying VBAC. My OB explained all of my options, what each option could mean either way. However, since I already knew what to expect with a C-section, and I already knew how my body would react to surgery, I decided it was best to go with what I already knew. My daughter was almost 3 when I had my second child, so she was a 'help' to me and honestly, I think I recovered quicker with the second one than the first.
I personally would recommend it. However, you have to decide how your body reacted to the first one and if your recovery went well. If it didn't go well, or your body didn't react well, then maybe VBAC might be a good option.

Hope this helps!
Good Luck!
D.

I had an emergency C with my first and three years later did a repeat with my second. Recovery was in no way as hard as the first one, with the first C I pushed for 4 hours, and was exhausted. With the second C, I knew what to expect and was not as tired with it being schedueled and not having to go through labor. This past April I had my 3rd C and still did better than my first for recovery, although it had been almost 9 yrs from my first! Then only thing that changed was being more tired, and this comes with age! Much easier the younger you are! Hope this helps

I am a mom of three. My oldest I delivered vaginally with no problems. Then a couple of years later I had to have an emergency C-section and that was after laboring all day. When it came time to decide what to do about delivering my third I was torn. Having gone through the all day laboring and then having to have a c-section anyway was not fun. My doctor also told me that with my third I had a good chance of having a vaginal delivery. What I did was schedule a c-section at 40 weeks and ended up going into labor a couple of days before this. When I got to the hospital, they asked me what I wanted to do and I decided to try for the vaginal delivery. Again after laboring all day, I progressed to 8cm and then stopped. I had to have the c-section anyway. I don't plan on having anymore, but if by some miracle I get pregnant again I will go with the planned c-section. I can also tell you that the recovery with my third wasn't as bad as it was with my second. I'm not sure why, whether my body was more used to it or if I knew what to expect. I felt better through the whole process because I really trust my doctors. Hope my story helps. L.

I too had an unplanned c-section with my first and was devastated. I wanted to VBAC the second but my doc didn't want the liability, even though I was a good candidate. Even though the second c-section wasn't quite as bad, I still believe that babies shouldn't enter the world that way and I will always wish I'd found another doctor and VBACed the second. And you are right to consider how much harder it is to take care of TWO children after major surgery! If you are low-risk for VBAC and your doctor is willing to let you do it, and you are well-informed of the risks and complications (induction and epidurals can significantly increase those risks) then I say cherish the opportunity to give birth and go for it. Also, if you plan to have more children, repeat c-sections carry some pretty big risks as well, which is something to consider.

S....I am reposting my initial response in case you didn't see it the first time...good luck! :o)

ORIGINAL POST:
I also had a emergency c-section w/ baby #1 (Emily) after 36 hours (cord was around her neck) and when we got pregnant with Haley, we planned another c-section. My Dr. was great and gave me the option to do either as well as the risks and left it up to me. In the end, my husband & I decided it was not worth all of the stress of wondering if I would rupture and then need a c-section anyway. Both of my girls were born very healthy and happy and it was the best decision I made.

We scheduled the birth, so we knew exactly when to go to the hospital. There was no stress, just comfort knowing I would be a Mommy again in a few hours. It was much like checking into a hotel! :o)

The BEST part about it was the recovery time; it was so much faster & easier! With my first C, I was in soooo much pain and couldn't even move w/o trouble; let a lone get out of bed. With my 2nd C, I was walking the halls within 12 hours of delivering and even left the hospital ahead of schedule. At the end of the first week at home I was doing all of my normal household chores and caring for 2 little ones (Emily was only 2 when Haley was born).

Ultimately, you need to make the choice that is best for you, but I highly recommend another C. You already have enough on your mind with baby #2 on the way and caring for a toddler..why add extra stress to that wondering if you will have complications with a VBAC?! ;o) GOOD LUCK and feel free to e-mail me privately if you have any additional questions.

~R. :o)

S. - Both of my daughters were born C-Section. I had no problems with either birth or recovery. Do you have a daycare that you could send your first born for a few days a week? Or do you have a family member or friend that could come and help you out? My oldest went to daycare part time during my maternity leave; it was good. That way I could have some alone time with my newborn and then let my oldest get used to having a younger sibling. Actually (believe it or not), I had more energy after my second c-section (probably new what to expect) and was bouncing off the walls to get the kids out of the house. LOL! GOOD LUCK to you in your decision!

i had three c-section the second was not the greatest but it was only b-cuz the dr. screwed up. i wouldn't worry about it. i thought usually if u have one c-section u have to have all the children that way, or maybe that is just me. either way u choose to do it will be fine. i have three beautiful children.

i have had 4 csections, and didn't really have any problems. The biggest thing you have to remember is that the longer you wait to get up and move around, the worse its gonna feel. With my first, i didn't get up til the next day, and only after they removed the cathetur. Big mistake. Also, i used the pain meds too much. Not good! Just make sure you get yourself up and around and you'll be fine!

I have had 3 c-sections now.. lol The first was an emergency and I had my second 11 months later to the day. I had a choice but my dr told me it takes a year to heal and I could rip inside and never have any more kids and it would be dangerous.. He recommended the second c-section. It was much easier!! I recovered faster and even faster on the third. lol I think part of it is you know what is going on and so I knew what to do and how I would feel. Also I was prepared I had my hubby take sometime off work to be there when I was home at first and then my mom who lived close came over a lot. Same with the third. Just to help out with the little things and to play with my older kids. Specially since my daughter was only 11 months when my son was born. She still needed lots of help. When I had my third my kids were a bit older my daughter 4 and my son 3. Both were very helpful and something could hand me the stuff I needed. Plus that little extra time in the hospital enjoy it. As once you get home you don't have as much time. You then split between two kids. I loved the time I got in the hospital with each baby. Plus you have the nurses there to help you.
Personally I have never felt bad about not have the chance to do anything but a c-section. If given that choice now I would choice the c-section as it is what I know and easier in my head because of that. I rather have a little more recovery time but truely feel my baby is safer.. lol But that is me.
If you ever need to talk just message me and I can give you my number! lol

I had a repeat c section with my son, but I had no choice. When my daughter was born (she is 3) I had an emergancy c section and the dr. (not my dr.) only did a single layer closure on my uterus so I had no choice of a VBAC the second time. I think I recovered quicker after the 2nd c section, and I had a 22 month old at home. Just be very careful about picking up the older child..it WILL hurt the next day. It is very hard for a mom not to pick up their child. We did travel to Florida (in a van) for a family wedding two weeks to the day my son was born and I felt fine!

I had 2 c-sections after a vaginal birth. My first c-section was not planned but my son was too big to pass through my pelvic bone. The recovery was time consuming. My second c-section was planned because I did not want to risk the issues that I had when I was trying to deliver my first two kids. The c-section went very smooth, and I recovered faster from the second one. I was up and moving about in the time it takes to heal from a vaginal delivery. To me the benefits of having the second c-section outweighed the risks of trying a vbac. For me the c-section was definitely the better option. I was told after my second son was born that I could not vaginally deliver a baby over 7 pounds because of my pelvic bone being so small. I had trouble with my oldest son because he was almost 7 pounds, and he had to be suctioned out. You need to sit down and weigh the pros and cons of both methods out, and take the time to decide what you think is best for both you and your baby. Good luck!

D.

I am 31 and have been married for 12 yrs. My husband and I have 3 boys ages 11,7,and 4.

S.-

I have 2 lovely children ages 14 and 11 and I had an emergency c-section with the first and a scheduled one with the second. It was my asking to schedule the second. I did not have any complications and I knew what exactly to expect with the second c-sec. It went very well and the procedure was different than the first (laser instead of cut and staples instead of stiches) and my recovery time was just about the same. I did not find it harded to care for my oldest either. I know everyone is different but I found it comforting to know what to expect and having not been through a vaginal delivery and the stories I heard about epiesietomies (sp)etc...I was happy to schedule a c-sec. plus I could arrange for child care for my first and it not have to be in the middle of the night. It worked out very well for us! Hope this helps- Good Luck!

S.,
it is important to know why your first labor turned emergency. were you able to walk and move freely to support baby's positioning and decent? were you supported emotionally? were fears worked with prior to labor? were you allowed to eat and drink as need to keep nourishment up? these are all huge factors in labor working normally. the more surgical deliveries you have, the higher the risk. right now your chance for uterine rupture is statistically around 1% ...that increase with each c-sect.

it is best for babies to be born normally, it is best for their lungs, nervous systems, and the bonding they can have with you right after birth is very important and gets interrupted after surgery. Recovery for your body is without a doubt quicker and easier after normal birth than after surgical delivery.

I would highly recommend seeking emotional support, making sure that you feel really safe and supported by your care provider, as well as your partner. a doula would be a great tool for a vbac. you might also seek out some trauma resolution work to fully help your body release what "went wrong" last time to prepare this time.

c-sections are an amazing tool for true emergencies and can surely save lives, however, it is not the optimal way to be be born, and should only be used when a real emergency calls for it.

Hey S.! I am the mother of 4 boys - all c-sections. the first one I barely had labor and had a c-sect because I never dialated. The second one I went all the way and he was just to big - so I had a second one. The third and fourth were planned.

I have to say the planned c-sections went a lot smoother than the laboring c-sects. I was more relaxed and the recovery time wasn't so bad (except #4, but I think that is understandable when you have 2 c-sects in a 14 month period - but I enlisted the help of more people).

After my second c-sect I thought that the recovery was quicker than the first. I knew what to expect and my oldest was 18 months so he was a little bit self sufficient and that helped. Don't get me wrong - I still needed help for the first 2 weeks but to me it seemed easier.

Your dr. is the best to discuss the risks of VBAC. They will not give you the option if it is dangerous.

Overall - you have every reason to be worried and scared. I was also before all the births of my boys, but in the end it really wasn't too bad.

Best of luck!

S. - I had a planned c-section with my first baby and it was absolutely fine. I was in the hospital for 4 days (during which you'll have nursery help). I was up and walking pretty well (down to NICU where my baby boy was) in 2 days. I've heard emergency c-sections are really hard especially if you've already pushed. My planned one was easy.

Best of luck!
R.

I had the same fears as you regarding a potential VBAC. (1st birth was emergency C-section after I think 12 hrs. of labor--not fun!) My recovery time after the C-section was horrible and I was adamant that I would not do that again unless I had to! (infection, wrong pain med dosage, etc.) I did NOT want to go through all that again while caring for two kids! I was assuming, however, that it would come to that. I remember going in to have my 2nd child and thinking they were going to have to re-sterilize all the tools they had out for a vaginal birth. Fortunately, I was able to have him vaginally (did need an episiotomy which wasn't too bad). My subsequent births were easier than that one too, so I would suppose that the common thought of labor going more quickly after the first one is true, although I couldn't find anything to verify that. You could research that. I did find this link http://www.childbirth.org/section/CSFact.html about VBACs. It seems that the risks Drs. like to talk about are really very rare. I guess if I were you, I'd do as much research as I could and then determine what's right for you. Personally, I would recommend a VBAC, since I've had 3 (and plan on a 4th in Feb.!) but of course, I can't guarantee your results.

Hope that helps.

I had my daughter via C-sec. I thought I would be able to have my son VBAC, but he too was settled in the breech position, hence a 2nd C-sec. I actually had a better time with the 2nd because I knew what to expect. I think the unknown with the 1st C-sec, along with an awful spinal tap problem, was worse. I think it was more stressful not knowing what to expect. If you do go C-sec grab all the helpful time you can in the hospital. You'll have plenty of one on one at home. My theory is no matter how your child is born (natural or C-sec) you have brought a miracle into the world. Good Luck and God Bless you.

S.,

I also had an emergency, unplanned c-section on my first pregnancy (a condition called HELLP syndrome, no long drawn-out laboring that didn't progress - just immediately life-flighted and delivering the baby fixed the problem). I decided to have the c-section on my second. I made the decision through conversations with my OB and my husband. We decided it was the safer way to go so that we could try to avoid the complications of the first one even though there were no warning signs. I don't remember my recovery being any worse on the 2nd than on the 1st. I had a little bit more pain because of scar tissue, but I'm not sure that the scar tissue may not also be sore or tender with a v-bac. It was the right decision for me... I was able to plan for the care of my son while I was in the hospital and I was less concerned about my health knowing I was scheduled with the doctor that had diagnosed my condition on the first one and knew my history. Hope this helps!

I have had to make that same decision. I chose to have the C-section and the recovery time was actually quicker than the first because there was no labor prior to the C-section. The first C-section was an emergency after 15 hours of labor and the recovery was weeks. The second C-section was planned and the recovery was just a few days. My babies were born only 20 months apart so I was glad the recovery was only a few days. I have encouraged to others to have the second C-section because of the recovery time especially if you are afraid of having another emergency C-section.

I too had an emergency c-section after 20 hours of labor. I was unprepared for the recovery time it took (I also had been on strict bed rest for 3 months prior to delivery). So, I was really nervous when I was expecting our second. After a lengthy discussion with my OB on the benefits and risks of repeat C-sections, as well as V-Backs, I elected for the scheduled C. I still ended up going into labor, but this time was given a C-section within hours of arriving at the hospital. I was really glad I electted for the C-section - when they took me in, the doctors discovered the force of my contractions had opened my uterus at the incision site. The recovery time was much quicker, and overall the procedure wasn't as scary because I knew what to expect. This time around, I will be having a C-section as well.

Have you spoken to your doctor about your concerns? If he/she does vbac then he/she may help ease your mind on this decision by giving you an honest answer as to what is best for you.

My sister-in-law had 2 c-sections. When I asked her about the second one, she said it was easier the second time around. She still had pain, of course, but it seemed like the healing time was quicker than the first, and not quite as painful. She said she thought it helped that she KNEW what to expect the second time. I hope this helps. :-)

I had a second c-section with a 10 month old at home. You just find different ways to help with moving around. For example, I pushed the 10 month old around in a little travel stroller inside the house and did diaper changes on the floor till I was able to handle more weight. I loved planning the timing of the birth and knowing when and where. It made it much easier, especially with no relatives and few close friends in a new city. Good luck!

http://www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10212
www.vbacfacts.com
www.ican-online.org

I've had both a c-section and a VBAC and I would choose the VBAC every time.

My daughter is out of town on business, or else I'd have her answer you directly.

She had both her children by C-section, and she really got along well both times. The first time was an emergency C-section, since the baby's heartrate was slowing down rapidly. For some reason, my daughter had been scared to death of regular delivery, so the way things worked out was a relief to her! Her recovery wasn't bad at all. The worst thing was her feeling drugged the first few hours after the baby was born.

The second time around, she made sure they kept her more awake and alert. That way, not only did she not feel drugged, she also was able to see the baby and hold her right away! That was a blessing for the baby AND the mama!

She and the children came to my house for a few days after they left the hospital, so she was able to rest while she recovered. Her recovery time was less the second time around, and she has never for one moment regretted having a C-section for the birth of both her children!

I'm sharing this with you just so you can have more information as you decide what to do. Everyone is different, but it's nice to get input from many people. :)

Good luck to you, my dear!

-- B.

Hi S.,

I've had 3 cesarians in 2 1/2 yrs.
My first cesarian was unplanned but I stopped dilating, it was a painful recovery and my incision was infected 3 times, quite painful to be opened back up to drain the infection and treat it daily.
The second time they recommended a c-section since the babies would be 11 months appart.
It was a pleasant experience. No complications or problems.

Now, I never was a big advocate of either, as long as the baby is healthy.
We accidentally got pregnant despite an IUD and my 3rd child was born 15 months after my son and 2yrs 3 months after my daughter.

The Dr wouldn't consider a VBAC - so another c-section. This time it was done on the 38th week because I was leaking amniotic fluid. My baby had to go to the NICU bc he couldn't breath on his own initially.
The recovery hasn't been bad despite 2 small children to care for at home, BUT the Dr said my uterus was paper thin and they did not recommend another pregnancy. If we had wanted more children we would not be able to without serious risks. The Dr actually said they were surprised that the uterus hadn't ruptured during my 3rd pregnancy.

Now, if you are sure this will be your last child - you can disregard other factors. But if you think you may want a 3rd, I'd reconsider. Just because of the additional risks a c/s can cause for future pregancies and deliveries.

I may have responded before but can't remember. I tried to have a VBAC and did not succeed and therefore ended up with a 2nd emergency C-section. I wish I had just planned the C-section, but hind sight is 20/20. If you have help at home, especially for the older one that first week to week and a half it isn't really all that bad. I also thought the recovery was slightly easier mostly, I think, because my body was already aware of the amount of pain, so it was not surprised by it. I don't know if that makes sense at all. My SIL has had 4 C-sections and she just keeps on ticking. If it is what you are leaning toward, I would just go ahead and schedule it and not let anyone make you feel bad about doing it. Like I said, I wish I would have because the 32 hours + of labor followed by the pushing and emergency C-section wore me out more than just showing up at the hospital at the assigned time would have. Good luck to you with whatever you choose.

I had an emergency c-section also with my first child in April of 2004. I was induced twice with my first child and was in labor for 38 hours b/f the doctor was forced to give me an emergency c-section. The recovery was awful b/c of being dialated to 10 and trying to push, etc. I found out I was pregnant when my first child was around 1. I decided at that time I was not going to go and try and have him natural. I elected to have him a planned c-section. It was a walk in the park, compared to the first one. I recovered very well and the nurses couldn't believe how well I did just the next day. I think that a planned is much easier on the body than a not planned. I hope this helps and I hope everything works out well for you.

Hi,
This may not be helpful, but I would consider what the reason was for you to have a c-section the first time. Was it because your little boy got stuck or was he in distress?

I would opt for the safest way for you to deliver. Personally, I have never had a c-section but have heard some of my friends, just opt for the c-section because the stress, both physical and mental of a VBAC, was too much.

Congratulations on your current pregnancy. I know you will make the right decision when the time comes.

Enjoy your children, they grown so fast.

I am a stay at home mom of 4.

Stephanie-

I also had an emergency c-section with my first. I was induced- they started me on pitocin Tuesday morning and he was born Friday night! It was a rough couple of days and the emergency c-section was fast and scary. They told me later that with his size and position, he would not have made it out naturally.

The second delivery was was completely different. For one thing you can plan. I don't have any family near by and my sister took vacation to come and to watch our son while I was in the hospital. I also let my 2 year old know that I couldn't carry him in advance and got him used to that by my 8th month. Once I was home from the hospital there was an incident where he fell and bumped his head; instead of picking him up I simply sat on the floor to comfort him.

Since I knew what to expect, I wasn't as scared for the surgery and the process is very calm when it is planned. The recovery wasn't bad and the extra couple of days in hospital is nice- I was taking walks in the halls with my daughter on the second day. At home I was back to climbing our stairs the first week.

The only negative thing I experienced is when one of the moms in our playgroup questioned my decision ("don't you think you should at least try to go natural..."). The comment bothered me even though I knew I was taking the right path for me. Do what you think is best for you.

Congratulations!

I delivered my first child via c-section after 32 hours of labor! I don't remember anything about her birth. I was so tired, that recovery was awful. Since then, I have had 2 more c-sections. They were a breeze. Since I didn't have to go through labor first, the recovery was much easier. I still was scared to death during the procedure, but I remember everything. Teh greatest joy is my children...no matter how they entered this world!

S.,

I had two c-sections, first unplanned and the second one was planned due to the risks of having a VBAC, however I went into labor naturally a month earlier than my planned c-section date. At the hospital my doctor gave me the choice to still have a VBAC since I went into labor naturally - I personally choose to have the c-section because I was scared of the what could happen if I tried to have a VBAC and I did not want to have to put my husband into a situation where he had to make a choice. I didn't care about the recovery time - I knew that I could recover I had done it before. I also knew that I had help for the first week when I came home from the hospital.

My best advice to you is this - figure out the pros and cons on the situation and decide what you and the father can mentally and physically take and then make your decision. You will make the right decision for you, just trust yourself and your feelings.

Good luck and God bless,
Mel

Hello, I too had my first child by emergency c-section and boy was it scary. For my daughter I had a planned c-section and was it ever a big difference. I was calm and walked right into the room and layed down on the table. The doctors, nurses and other staff were all great. They told my everthing that was happening during the c-section. My recovery time and stay in the Hospital was shorter. I had thought about vbac but when my daughter was close in weight to my son, I decided not to risk another emergency and I'm glad I went with the c-section. I felt in control the whole time. The only hitch was when the doctor forgot to tell my the sex of the baby. He said he was sorry he forgot that I was his only patient that day that didn/t know the baby's sex. We all laughed then I saw my beutiful daughter. So my experience was great the second time around. Hope this helps.

A. H.

I am a mother of 5 and my 1st 2 were "regular" in the hospital legs up in the strips stranded beetle position births. 3rd child was a C Section (It was hard to recover from the surg. took a few weeks) followed by 2 natural child births one was in the water and the last one would have been too except she came to fast. Of all the births the best and fastest to heal was the water birth and the last one I did not let them give me an epesiotomy and healing was a snap!
I have very bad back labor because of arthritis and the warm water was the best.
Good Luck

Hi S. good luck to you. I had a second csection too, after an emergency section.. Boy what a difference. I was relaxed and ready for the second birth ,no trauma,i could pick the day and I was able to enjoy the time afterwards so much more. The recovery was shorter too. I give it a 2 thumbs up.

Hi S.,
I am a mother of 3 girls, 2 were C-section & one was a VB.
My first was an emergency C-section..and I was scared through the whole process...I believe not knowing much about it makes it a lot worse. And also hearing horror stories about the vaginal deliveries even makes child birth more scary..so yeah, I know exactly where your going. My second was the vaginal Delivery, and I think both deliveries were pretty much easy...hard at first because you don't know what to expect, but nice and relaxing once you get to meet your wonderful new baby, because you forget about the delivery for that moment. When I had my 3rd child, she was suppose to be vaginal, but the doctor said that I was at high risk and could end up hurting or killing both the baby and myself. So he did an early c-section...I wasn't wanting it to happen, but it did. And you know what..?? I healed faster with this one than the first. The whole thing was a lot better to know and be prepared than just the spur of the moment..scary thing. All my girls are very healthy and wonderful. And things should be a lot smoother the 2nd time around! Good Luck & Congrats!

Hi. I had 3 c-sections. The first one was an emergency one. The other two were planned. I recovered well. I had stayed with my mother the first 2 c-sections for a couple of weeks each. My husband was able to help with the third one. I like the c-sections because you can plan them about a week ahead. I also got my tubes tied with the third one. Three was what we wanted. If you believe in God,He'll get you through it. Pray before you go to bed,and let God take care of you.

Hi. First I would like to tell you that my last 2 (I had 3), pregancies were very different. The 1st of the 2 was my 2nd child . (My 1st being an emergency c-section.) So I had a choice with my second child. I fought to have a vbac, yes there were possible complications, but I went to a specialist. He broke his collar bone 3 weeks before I delivered and I had to go to his partner who assumed that I was going The C route, I told her VBac. The day came for the delivery and my hubby and I did our lamaze stuff, it was way cool. But when I was trying to push him out he flipped over. The doctor gave me an edipural, and went in with forceps and flipped him over. Since I got the epidural I could no longer feel the contractions, and the doctor took my guy aside and I heard him say If she can't push it out we'll have to do a c. I thought well this is crappy, so to make a long story short when I felt the fluid rush out , I knew it was a contraction, so I pushed, and we had child number 2 vbac. When I was pregnant with child #3 they said he was gonna be a big baby, I was 40 had got gestational diabetes. They asked me in my 5th month of pregnancy. I said I have a choice? wow Ill take a c-section. I knew I couldnt have my first one because she was to big, the second one was 2 pounds smaller, the third one was c-section and they took him a month early. It took a week in the hospital with the first one, two days with the second, and I stayed with the 3rd because he had to stay. So I hope this was all positive info for you, but if you do have a choice you make it , and you do it for you, and whats best for the baby. They say vaginal is the best because it pushes the fluid out of their lungs, hence less respiratory issues. My 1st c had no respiratory issues. Good luck in what ever you decide.

I've had three. My first was due to an emergency (breech presentation). After having a conversation with my doctor, it was determined that you don't get "mother of the year" for 36 hrs of labor and possibly still having to have the c-section again. Call me wimpy but I liked scheduling my surgery, getting extra time off for my maternity leave (due to the surgery) and a couple of extra days in the hospital. Federal guidelines gives you up to 2 days for a vaginal delivery and up to 4 days for a c-sections. For my third baby (born 18 months ago) I rented a bunch of "chic-flicks" at the video store and spent 4 wonderful days in the hospital with my new baby watching movies and being cared for, before having to go home and take care of me, the new baby and my two boys (then 4 & 6yrs old) not to mention my husband.
I don't know how recovery is after a VBAC- but no matter what, you're going to have to exercise to that figure back.
Don't let others press you into a VBAC- you are going to have
a beautiful baby and the only thing that matters is that you and the baby are safe and healthy.

God Bless you and you family
J.

Hi Stephanie,
I can't remember whether I replied last time or not. I ended up with a c-section with my first did the scheduled c-section the second time. I actually didn't think the recovery was that bad, but not have a successful v birth, I can't compare. The biggest thing was being careful not to lift my then almost two year old, I would sit on the couch or chair and have him crawl into my lap or get down on the floor to snuggle or comfort him. I also had my Mom watch my oldest during the day when my husband was at work for the first two weeks, that helped a lot. Then I kept them both with me the rest of the maternity leave. The funny thing was I went into labor (my water broke) at 3:00am the morning I was scheduled to go in, so I didn't have to worry about "picking" his birthday. My OB felt we had a 50/50 chance of ending up with a c-section again, my first son was posterior position and we went through the whole labor and about 2 hours of pushing with no success, at that point I was exhausted I just wanted to be done so we went to c-section. She felt the chances that this baby would also be posterior were pretty good. I felt very lucky that the first time both of us were still doing well when we decided to go to surgery and I was afraid if we tried v-bac and ended up in the same position again... well I just thought it seemed less ricky with this choice and since I already had the scar anyway it wasn't like I had to experience that v birth. Good luck to you and feel free to email me if you want to talk about it more.

I just had my 2nd DD in July. And, while my goal was a VBAC, mother nature had other ideas. So, I wound up having a C Section 3 weeks early. It was a very good thing because my uterus had thinned out so much I would have ruptured (per my Dr.) I found both C's to be easy to recover from. The absolute key is to get up and walk around as soon as you can and do it as much as possible. I would get up from time to time and do laps around the nurses station and pace in my room. Frankly, I didn't find either of them to be too difficult to recover from and have had many friends that did all vaginal births and had worse recovery issues! And, not sure it you're working or not, but I got 2 extra weeks of maternity leave because of it! So there's a bonus!!

Good luck!

While I hjave never had a c section my sister did. First one was due to labor stoping. The drs said it was like she had twins. Baby had passed down the birth canal as far as possible without being born. This was the second prgnancy. So they did an emergency c section. She had major pain for weeks. Vaginal as well as incission issues. Well when baby number 3 was to be born they elected to schedule a c section. She said it was a total difference. No major pain like before. She was out running around days after. If she is any judge I would opt for c section. Middle child had some monior issues from being in the birth canal too long bu he's fine now. Graduated Valevictorian. The thrid child graduated third in his class but had a higher GPA. I 'd say don't be frightened.

Hi S.! My first c-section was also unplanned and an emergency at 24 weeks. My second c-section was planned. I figured since I recovered so easily from the first why not plan it for the second. The second was even easier! I am now pregnant and due in April with my third child and have already had my c-section date scheduled with my OB. Personally, I would have it no other way. I do not know what laboring is like and from what a lot of my girlfriends say who have delivered vaginally and then a c-section the second time, they say they would take the c-section any day over a vaginal delivery. Good Luck and enjoy it!

Hello, S..
I had a second c-section in June. My first was an emergency, too, in August 2006. The second one, my doctor didn't support VBAC so that helped make my decision. I did go into labor on the day of the surgery, which I thought might make the recovery more difficult, but it wasn't bad. I had no problem with the antacid! I left the hospital a little more than 48 hours after she was born. I was most worried about taking care of my toddler at the same time. I was very tired because I was anemic and because the changes in our life lead to my toddler not sleeping as well as usual. I only ever took a half-dose of the Percocet they offered and Ibuprofen was enough once I got home. I had my mom to help for a few days. Baby was born on Tuesday and I was on my own with both kids on the following Monday. My husband took 3 days off. Without a doubt, the most difficult part was not lifting my toddler for 6 weeks. I can tell you it was much sooner than that and I don't know how to avoid that unless you have help for the whole time. Your first is older than mine was, though. The recovery was very similar to the first time, for me. I do kind of wish that I had gotten to experience a natural birth (as planned for the first)because there is no going back now. Of course, at the time I didn't know I was having a 9 pounder. All in all, I am satisfied with having had 2 sections. We are hoping for one more at some point, so I guess it wasn't so bad. I think you have to go with your gut instinct. Don't worry. If you try for a VBAC and end up with another section- at least, you would have the satisfaction of having tried it. Was your first child a large baby? Why did you have the emergency section the first time? How much help will you have?
I think the VBAC risks are over-stated, but the recovery is a serious consideration. I am thinking of asking to be allowed to go into labor on my own again next time even though I will have a c-section. I just felt better knowing the baby chose the date and was fully ready. I think the chemicals released by a spontaneous labor are good for the baby. I hope I haven't made your decision more complicated. Good luck. Let us know what you decide.

I had an emergency c-section in April 2001 with my son and I just had another c-section with my daughter 7 wks ago. I think I had an easier recovery the second time. I didn't have a hard time recovering the first time but my daughter was smaller and it was an all around easier pregnancy on my body. I was very nervous going in for my 2nd c-section but it was easy and over very quickly! Good luck with whatever you choose!!

I had three c- sections and i don't have anything to compare them to because i never delivered vaginally. My second c- section was planned but the little stinker put me in labor the night before. I went straight to the hospital and because the c was planned they gave me epidural right away. After delivery my doctor told me that it would have been a long hard delivery that probably would have ended in a c anyway. My baby had meconium aspiration and had I tried to deliver vaginally she might not have made it, as it was she had to stay in the NICU for 2 weeks.

I delivered all 3 of my children by c-section. The first was a section after 18 hours of labor so the second and third were nothing. I went to the hospital had a few bags of fluids run into me then into the delivery room where they did my spinal (not to bad!!) About 20 minutes I was able to see my babies!!! I have to say the recovery is a little different since I didn't get to sit around but all in all I would do it again!!

Hope this helps a little,
A.

WHat I don't understand is why if you received a lot of positive experiences of VBAC and very few positive c-sections that you would still be uncomfortable with VBAC. It seems like you have already made up your mind and are looking for someone to tell you what you want to hear. C-section is a major surgery and has higher risks than a vbac. IT also takes longer for recuperating. Women have been having vbacs since the beginning of time. The down time is much less. The c-section should only be a choice when the health of the mother and baby are at risk. VBAC is NOT a major surgery and for some not even a surgery if there is no anesthesia used. My mother had 5 c-sections and had a lot of scar tissue. I have had 4 vbacs and was never worried because I knew I was in the hands of a good doctor and hospital. Whatever problems I had , had nothing to do with my deliveries but with the size of my babies and how I carried them. We are truly fortunate to live in the United States with our medical knowledge. I would really think this through with an open mind and with your doctor. There are risks with everything and why put all that increased worry on yourself. It is not good for you and your baby.

Hello,
my first C-section was also an emergency, i had a crappy anesthesiologist and felt half of the surgery, plus my doctors didn't have the best bedside manner. we moved and for my second pregnancy, my new doctor told me, I don't do vback, there are too many risks. Ruptured uterus can happen, plus with my age (mid 30's) and i had high blood pressure, there were a lot of other factors too. I told him about my experience with my first he got me the best anethesiologist there was in the hospital. Everyone was so sweet and kind to me. I was nervous as all get out, but it went like a piece of cake. If i were a few years younger, I'd probably even do it again!!,but we decided to stop at 2. i was suprised when it was done, when I told my doctor my fears and concerns, he put them all to rest and the 2nd was a pice of cake. I even healed up quicker with the second one.

My first pregnancy was an emergency c-section. It was awful, I had just about every complication you can think of and even epidural not working, spinal not working and finally a general (which I was in and out of). However I had a planned c-section the 2nd time around. It was great, I was scheduled to come in about 9am but then my waterbroke that morning at 2:30am. It was okay though they got me in and gave me my spinal (which worked great!) and I got to be awake for the birth. I was scared but everything went very well. Recovery time was MUCH better than the 1st time. I bled for a real long time but I came home from the hospital on a Sunday and my husband was back to work on Monday morning. I have a 3 1/2 year old at the time too who wasn't crazy about having a sibling but everything went fairly well. I wouldn't do it any other way

S.,

Although it's been almost 22 years ago, my 2nd was a planned C-section and I wouldn't have done it any other way. My first (almost 25 yrs ago) was also an emergency c-section (abruptio placenta)and the 2nd was complicated by pregnancy induced lupus, so I didn't really have much of a choice, but at least I knew what to expect. I picked the day and time! It was great! I tolerated both post-ops with plain Tylenol, nothing stronger. Like I said, it's been a while, but I don't really remember the recovery time with a toddler being so awful. I didn't have help either, my husband went straight back to work.

Yes, both delivery options are scary and have their own sets of risks and benefits. What's most important is the health and well-being of you and your baby. Remember it's an extremely emotional time anyway, so pray for guidance. I'm sure you'll make the right decision.

Best wishes!
G.

I planned my 2nd c-section as my doctor told me I didn't have a choice. Let me tell you....2nd one is a WHOLE lot easier! For me anyway. My son was 3, turned 4, 10 days later after sister was born. I don't know if it was because I knew what to expect that things were better the 2nd time or if I just KNEW I had no choice! My then-husband was also overseas with the military at the time, so I HAD to do it. I stayed the first week with my parents then went home. But was doing just fine! If you have any more specific questions...feel free to write me. I'd be more than glad to help answer 2nd time c-section questions.
Good Luck!

S.,
Don't worry so much-do what your heart tells you.
I had 2 other c-sections after my first. No sweat. You'll get to take it easy and recoup!! Even with the other baby, it's not going to be as bad as your thinking. Just think, you've already been through the c-section right? you know what it takes to recover, only this time it's no suprise.
I'm a big fan! Planned my delivery dates!!
Good luck!
R.

Many of my friends feel like they do not get "closure" on the birth process with C sections and even epidurals. If possible, I suggest attempting a non-c-section birth - unless your doctor recommends otherwise. Good Luck!

I had two elective C-sections with my children who were 14 months apart. The first time, my son didn't drop down or anything by my due date. I asked my doctor what he thought would happen based on previous experiences and he told me that if he had 4 people in the same situation, he'd wait a couple of weeks, induce us, and that at least three, if not all four of us would end up with C-sections. So my husband and I didn't see any point in waiting as long as my son was fully developed. It was a good decision because when my OB got a look at the size of my pelvis, he knew it would have caused issues in a vaginal birth and certainly if he'd let the baby grow larger.

My experience the first time was not bad at all. It was easier than I thought and I was up and walking around really early. I didn't need narcotics, just Motrin and an ice pack (which they didn't want to give me because of the bleeding risk, but both were the only things that helped me manage the pain.) They resorted to shooting the narcotics directly into my arm instead of into my IV thinking they'd work, but they didn't. My doctor (and the nurses) told me that I must be pretty "hearty" because of that. I think for me the combination of being a nervous new mom and the loss of blood added to the fatigue as I was recovering at home. I would feel like I could take a walk down the street, go to lunch with my hubby for an hour (my mom stayed with me for a week afterwards), but I would find myself drained and exhausted really quickly. Everything was like that for about two months.

It made me REALLY nervous when I found myself pregnant again 5 months after my son was born! How was I going to manage a 14-month old and an infant in the wake of a c-section? I needn't have worried. I didn't feel nearly as drained as the first time. My incision seemed to heal faster with less fuss. I did have help again for a few days, but less sleep than the previous time because of the reality of having two babies. I think, though, that it's exhausting with your second no matter how old your first child is. The good news is that the (exhausting) anxiety you feel as a first-time mom wasn't there with when my daughter was born. I knew exactly what to do. There wasn't a learning curve. That helped a lot. I have friends who felt the same way.

VBAC wasn't an option for me because of the reasons I mentioned. Also the doctor felt that there was a bleeding risk associated with the incision site (as I recall) that he didn't feel was prudent.

So...my point is that the second C-section isn't as hard as the first (and I'll be honest, I didn't think the first was that hard) and you do seem to heal faster. I didn't feel nearly as exhausted and anxious, but there was less sleep, so get some help if you can. If your first c-section had to do with something that might make it hard for your baby to be born vaginally, you might decide against VBAC. If it wasn't, I can just offer my experience with the second C-section and wish you best of luck and blessings on your growing family! Please feel free to contact me if you'd like more details.

Oh...and one last thing...if you elect the C-section and the anesthesiologist tries to make you take some NASTY antacid as hospital policy so that you don't throw up while you are on the table, REFUSE it. I didn't eat and followed all the pre-surgery rules. That stuff was HORRIBLE. I threw up on the anesthesiologist three times because that stuff tasted like a salt-lick covered in lemon juice, but cruelly smelled like grapes! Not fun when you can't feel anything from the middle of your back, down. I didn't take it the second time. I told the anesthesiologist that I didn't think he had 12 extra years of school so that he could hold a pan while some woman threw up all over the place. He didn't like it, but he laughed. Take care!

I had an unplanned C with my first child - 22 hours of labor and never dialated past 2...recovery was no biggie. Second child was planned and it was great - I think all babies should be born via C-section - so much easier and less painful!! Recovery takes 10 days to 2 weeks - which for some women with epiotimys, is about similar. Go for it!!

S.,
I myself was having a hard time with this desicion until I talked to my doctor. With my 3 year old daughter I went through 20 hours of labor only to find out she was too large and she got stuck we had to do an emergency c-section since I started running a fever and her heart rate started dropping. I am due with my second in april and myself was torn until the Dr. gave me her idea of the weight of the baby. She said he will be somewhere around 9 pounds. I decided that I would not put either one of us through a long labor and I will be doing a repeat c-section. My advice is to find out what the doctor thinks about the size of your baby. Hopefully you can enlist the help of your husband/boyfriend? Mom, sisters, cousins to help you take care of your 3 year old while you recover from the c-section. Good luck!

I too had my first child by emergency c-section. I opted to have a planned c-section with my second child. I was very torn between the idea of a VBAC and a second c-section. What was the turning point for me was when I heard on the Today Show that having a vaginal birth after a c-section increased the chance of brain injury and death to the infant. I spoke with my OB and he did confirm that there is a higher risk of oxygen deprivation to the infant which could lead to brain damage and deat. This is due to the damge to muscles along with a chance of the uterus tearing from having been cut. The alternative, is that all risk to the child, i.e. death and brain damage is removed by second c-section. The only risk is to the mother.

For me, it was a no brainer. I had my scheduled c-section without complication and will do so again if I have a third child. The only drawback was that I did have more pain than I did the first time, but was pretty much recovered within 2 weeks.

I hope this helps in your decision.

Good Morning :) I've had three c-sections, the first like yourself was an emergency. She was too big after 12 hours of labor and pushing she just wouldn't come out. She was also face up. Her delivery was very hard and I was very scared when it was time to have baby #2. We had a date planned for another c-section but my water broke early so again the fear. I was sitting in my hospital bed wondering if I should try for a v-back. They talked me out of and it was probably for the best he was just as big as his sister and probably wouldn't have come out either. His delivery wasn't bad at all. My daughter was three at the time and was great with mommy having to rest with new baby and was even helpful running for diapers and getting mommy a glass of water. My best advise would be to try and remember the things you didn't like about your last delivery and recovery in the hospital and to try and be proactive with your recovery. With my third c-section I remembered from the other two how horrible the gas pains wre the second night, so when I had the first indications that it was going to get bad I asked for the suppository to help pass the gas, on my terms not when it was too late and I was misserable. I kept on top of my medication and made sure that I took my time. #2 was a lot easier then #1. There are parts of me that look back and wish I had went v-bac but you know what I have three healthy babies and no it isn't fun but it won't be nearly as bad as the first time. Make sure you are well informed and ask lots of questions and stay on top of your care. Make sure hubby can stay in the hospital with you too. MY DH has always been a big part of my recovery. Don't be to proud to ask for help when you get home either. Make some meals to put in the freezer ahead of time and tyr to relax you will know what the right decision is. If you want to talk more feel free to email me. GOod luck with your decision.

I have a good friend who opted for a repeat c-section v. a VBAC, and she was very glad she did. Her first was also an unplanned emergency, and she raved about the difference between the two. She would definately go that route again, and if they decide for number 3 there's no question which she will choose!!!! Good luck!

Hi S.,
My first child was also an emerg. section after several hours of pushing. The recovery was fairly awful. I'm due again in June and I'm planning a scheduled section. My first baby was big and basically did not fit through my pelvis. They even tried to "suction" him out, which failed. I'm nervous but I'm already talking about everything with my dr. (I'm only 10 weeks) and I have a lot of confidence and trust in her. If they could guarantee me a vaginal birth, I would try the VBAC. But I would hate to have the experience I did with my son, all over again.

Hope this helps and good luck!!
C.

I had 2 c sections one after 24 hrs of labor, the other planned, then my third child was vbac. Recovery is certainly much quicker with natural birth. If you go through labor and then have the c-sect anyway, I think it would be worth trying.

Hey S..

I was in the same boat you are in 14 months ago. My first was an emergency c-section and my second, although planned, was done early because my blood pressure was rediculously high.

My experience has been that the first was much worse than the second. Don't know your circumstances, but I was in labor with my first when things went haywire and we opted for c-section for the health of both of us. The second time, no labor at all. Just go in, spinal, surgery, and baby. Now... I'm not gonna sit here and tell you I felt no pain at all, but it was crazy better the second time. I wasn't physically as exhausted because there wasn't the labor, and the whole environment was more at ease. Not the chaotic rush that my first was.

The meds that they gave me the second time around controlled my pain much more effectively. My advice is to request an anti-inflammatory as opposed to Vicoden or Lortab. They kinda make you loopy and help a bit, but the anti-inflammatory made my recovery with the second much quicker. My first I was a good 2 weeks before I was moving around like before. This last time, I was pretty good after about a week. Which was very helpful when I had a little one at home who already needed some extra attention. In fact, day 2 this time around, I was out of bed tidying up my room (type A sorry). With my first, I had to have 2 people help me to the bathroom the day after.

Whatever you choose will be right for you. But it sounded like you might need some good things said in the direction of c-section if that is what you and your doctor opt for. Best wishes and Congratulations on your new bundle of joy!!

I too had an emergency C-section after being in mild labor for many hours. All went well, and the recovery was fast.
The next delivery (4 years later) I went ahead and opted for planned C-section. We could plan it precisely, and with my condition (scarring from previous surgery) I was not going to dilate anyway. I found recovery faster because I could sit more comfortably and with the low bikini cut, they did not go across the abdominal wall. My original delivery (5 years before the first C-section) was normal, and I recovered from that one much slower and I was a whole lot younger! Best Wishes!

I have not had the experience of a c section and therefore a vbac but I think if you are worried you should go with the c sect - if you have family around or even out of town you can plan for help with the 3 yrs old during your recovery period. I work in the Med field and personally vbacs scare me, the risks are so high.
Good luck, I have a 31/2 yr old, a9 month old and 1 due in June
K.

I had three c-sections as well. My first was emergency too, after 44 hours of labor. I had a horrible time the first go round. I had to get my gull bladder out 3 wks after I had him. Recovery...seemed like it would never happen. So, with the second, I had myself worked into a horrible frenzy. A frenzy that was not needed. Everything went great and because I didn't actually go through labor, my recovery time was a lot quicker. When the second was born, my oldest was almost 2. I made him a huge part of the babies life before he got here, he went to the apts with me where they did the ultrasounds. He was SO helpful with everything when we got home. Got me diapers, blankets...etc...
Now my third....8 years after having the second, was back to an emergency c-sec. He was 3 wks. early. My recovery time lagged some, I'm thinking cause I'm a lil older : - ), but it nowhere compared to the first!

Hope that helps. Please feel free to send a message to me directly if you have any more questions.

Hello I had C Sections with BOTH kids and would do it OVER again. I am epileptic so pretty much wanted C Section to not have a seizure while pushing and cause me to have one BUT I ended up having a seizure with both of them 2 wks before due. Any way to the question. I did good with both of them Avery my daughter is 4 and I was out in 3 days BUT the nurses did NOT do their job right so pretty much did not have a good time at home and needed help for about 1 wk. With Quentin I was in there 4 days ONLY b/c he was in NICU and I was NOT leaving without him. I was up walking that night to go down to nurse him every 2-3 hrs and some times I had to pump b/c they told me I needed to rest which was TRUE lol. If you did good healing with 1st one I would do it again. I still notice I have numbing still and he is 16 mo. I hope you do well. M.

S.,

I had a c-section with my first about 4 yrs ago,not my choice but it had to be done. then i got preg. again with twins and i had to make the choice again the doc said it was up to me but advised me to get another one. due to my body was not able to handle the first delivery( would not dialate pass 2) so i decided to have another one and it went very well, she cut on the same line so i still only have one scare, nut my babies are almost 8 m and i still working on getting my muscles to look like they did before children. a working progress
hope this helps

My 2nd c-section was sooo much better than the 1st. You don't have to go through labor. Your tummy muscles have been cut and they know what is going on so it is soo much easier to get out of bed the 2nd time. I remember the 1st time it was so hard to get out of bed to do anything and the 2nd it was much easier. It was nice also to stay in the hospital and "recover" a bit before going back home. I let the nurses take my 2nd to the nursery and bring him in to nurse at night. It was a nice break. (I didn't do that with my first) I knew that was one of the last chances to sleep. The only thing that I was nervous about was my epidhural and it was not as bad as I had remebered which was a blessing. I had a friend who said it was like scheduling for a spa visit and to tell you the truth she was right. Best of luck and I would not change a thing about my delivery. I hope this helps :)

Hi S.!! I had two sections 10 1/2 months apart and I didn't think the recovery was much different. I was a little concerned because they were so close together but everything went fine. I think I even went home from the hospital one day earlier than the first one. Recovery wasn't bad. I would just recommend keeping up on the pain medicine they give you. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Hi S. :)
My first delivery was vaginal and very textbook...
My next 6 deliveries have been c-sections.
My 2nd birth was an unplanned c-sec due to non-response to being induced, and he turned out to be in a position that I wasn't ever going to dialate, so after all I had gone through I was happy for the csec. Recovery was hard because I didn't know what I was in for, or how to help myself recover.
My 3rd birth was supposed to be a VBAC, but it didn't pan out when I wouldn't dialate after 18 hrs. At that point in time, I was quite happy again to deliver in any way possible. Recovery was easier because I knew what to expect, and how important it was to get up, walk around, and get the blood circulating every hour or two.
My fourth was also supposed to be a VBAC, and I went to 42 weeks, no natural labor in sight, and I had to choose between being induced (which never proved helpful in the past) and an elective c-sec. I choose the c-sec, and recovered fine in spite of having three other children at home.
My 5th, 6th, and 7th were scheduled csec without the option of vbac, and I have no regrets or complaints. I recovered fantastic from the last few because I know that you need to get up! get moving, take extra vitamins both prior and after the surgery. Recovery from the last few should have been the hardest because each time my body was older and recovery is easier the younger you are, but my first csec recovery was the worst, and my 7th was the easiest.
I will be scheduled again in March since we are expecting our 8th child, and I will take conscience efforts to fortify by body with vitamins to help myself recover.
Rest is also very important. In hindsight, I see that I made the mistake of over-doing it when I came home from the hospital and for the first month after my first baby was born. Now I am wise enough to let things go that won't contribute to the end of the world! LOL :)

Good luck making your decision, and with the birth - however that occurs!

My first child was delivered by emergency c-section and it was traumatic for everyone involved. My son was over 10 lbs at birth so I elected to make my second delivery c-section. Let me tell you I was scared out of my mind but it was a complete walk in the partk compared to the first time around...so much so, I will gladly have a third child by c-section. I went into the hospital Friday morning and was up walking around Friday night and out of the hospital first thing Sunday. I could hardly believe the difference!!

I had a second c-section and it went actually a lot better than the first one. My first was not a planned one so I went through labor then they decided to c-section me. The second time no labor so I think that helped a lot on my body. Also I felt like getting up and walking soon after I was out of the recovery room. (I didnt get up and walk until I had to but I did feel like I could) My recovery time from the whole thing was a lot faster it felt like. I also had 2.5 yr old at the time. All I did was him was prepare him for the fact that I wasnt going to be able to pick him up. I taught him to get in and out of his carseat on his own. I taught him to hold my hand in the parking lot all before I had the baby. This was so he wouldnt be shocked by the fact that I couldnt do those things once I had the baby. He did great during the times I couldnt hold him. I felt like you about labor but wasnt given the decision about to a VBAC. I think I still would of wanted a C-section if I was given the choice. At least I knew what to expect with the whole process. Good luck! Hope this info helped you out.

Hi S.,
I was like you, had an emergency c-section for my 1st one (after 2 days of labor) & very much wanted a VBAC. Unfortunately there were some complications & I had to have another C-section (I was disappointed b/c I wanted to try to have a baby the 'regular' way). The recovery time for me was a zillion times better! It was much easier to walk after. I actually didn't take any pain medication at all.
Good luck!
H.
P.S. My 2nd was in February too ~ Valentine's Day!