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Childbirth/Pregnancy after Classical C-Section

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Expert: - 11/24/2008


Question
Hi, I'm seven weeks postpartum.  I had a ture emergency c-section (vertical incision) and we lost our son (stillborn)due to unknown cause.  I spoke with my mid-wive about when we can start trying again and she said she would like for us to wait six months.  I was wondering what kind of risks there are if we only wait 3-4 months before trying again?  I know that I will have to have another c-section so VBAC is out of the question.  We feel like we are running out of time and desperately want a child.  Thank you.

Answer
Nancy,

I'm so sorry for your loss.  I would advise you to wait even longer than 6 months.  The research shows us that the risk of uterine rupture after c-section is greatest when children are born less than 18 months apart and over 2 years is preferable.  This data is for a low transverse incision, which you didn't have.  The risks increase even further when a vertical incision is used.


Your safest option for delivering a healthy baby would be to allow your body the time it needs to heal to minimize the risk of complications during your next delivery.


Best,
Catherine

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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