Expert: Catherine Beier MS CBE - 1/17/2009

Question
I was nine days late going into labor with my first child.  After 12 hours of labor they broke my water.  At 17 hours, with 2 hours of pushing they ordered an emergency c-section.  In all this time I saw my doctor twice.  Had the baby been born during the pushing stage my husband would have been the only one in the room.  My daughter was face up, and her cord was being pinched as I pushed.  I was told there was little chance of pushing her out naturally because of those two things.  I didn't ask to many questions because I trusted the doctors.  I have had a second baby since then by scheduled c-section.  My husband and I are expecting our third.  I have read into childbirth since my first child and I feel my first labor was mishandled.  Am I right?  I would like to have this baby natural, and if at all possible at home.  Is it safe to attempt a vaginal birth after 2 c-sections and is it safe to attempt it at home with a midwife?

Answer
Carolyn,

Yes, it very much sounds like your first labor was badly mismanaged.  Breaking your water most likely led to your daughter's poor positioning and left her unable to rotate into a better position, thus pinching her cord.  I would also guess that you were on your back for most of the labor, unable to move freely and forced to push on your back as well.  All of these factors most likely contributed to your preventable c-section.


It can be possible to have a homebirth after 2 c-sections.  This will depend on how long ago you had your other children, and the location/type of incision, as well as your ability to find a midwife to attend you at home who can take VBAC clients.


For more information on VBAC and HBAC, visit vbac.com and vbacfacts.com.  Also, you can contact the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) at ican-online.org to help you locate a provider and answer your questions on your options.



Best,
Catherine