This post was updated on July 6, 2020, and is part of the Giving Birth Series. It contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of the links below, then I will receive a percentage from the sale.
Our first doctor in North Jersey reassured me he would sow me up in a way that I could have a successful VBAC after my c-section experience. I believed him.
It wasn’t until I was pregnant with our second child that I got confirmation. Our OB/GYN in South Florida let us know the incision had been stitched properly and already healed. She told me I was a good candidate for a VBAC.
This was good news for me since I didn’t like the idea of another C-section. However, I only had one birth experience and it was a bit traumatizing. I didn’t know what to expect this time around.
Even after consulting my good friend Google, I was unsure of what a successful VBAC would be like. For some reason, I never asked my doctor either. All she knew was my previous doctor had prepped me for a possible VBAC in the future. Also, I had made it my goal to have one after the my c-section recovery.
Reoccurring Memories At The Hospital
My heart wanted to jump out of my chest when I had gone into labor the second time around. When I heard the word epidural I wanted to cry. My memories of what it was like the first time I receieved it for an emercy c-section came to mind. I knew I’d have to stay calm during the epidural or else there were serious consequences. The question was, how?
Thanks to a wonderful nurse named Sara I got through it.
We chatted about her life while I was in labor and her words were very encouraging. She gave me the female support I needed. Sara even offered me a piece of gum while the anesthesiologist prepared her tools and my back for the injection. This helped with breathing through contractions.
For the second time, I had psyched myself into thinking an epidural would be the worst thing in the world. Honestly, because it was a different situation this time around, I felt great after receiving one. The contractions were turned into just pressure in my vaginal area and when I had the urge to push, it was a lot more exciting.
Vaginal Birth After C-Section
My husband stood beside me as he did when our first child was born. As I pushed, my husband helped tilt my head to my chest to make each push stronger. When the doctor and the nurse would forget to count, he would do it for them. In between pushes, I’d ask for ice chips and he’d hand them over.
Without feeling the pain of contractions, I was able to successfully push my little guy out into the world.
The aftermath was a lot smoother this time around. I was able to walk around within two hours or so, care for my child, and rest at night. Of course, this is the second time around so my husband and I were ready for what was to come. I did get a slit to aid with our second child’s birth. The doctor stitched me up shortly. The recovery for vaginal birth stitches was painful every time I went to the bathroom. I almost cried each time.
Big Brother Watching
Our oldest was excited to come to the hospital and find me holding his baby brother. He even wanted to hold him, which was pretty reassuring for us that he’d be a great brother and help us with his baby brother.
He watched him from afar and would occasionally come close. Although he wanted to hold him whenever he’d come by, we’d tell him it was too soon. It’s been nice to watch our toddler and newborn together, share their lives, and go through life’s changes together.
My husband and I were very proud of how things turned out the second time around and were excited to bring our little one home with us.
Two Essential Items You’ll Need After VBAC Delivery
Most of the items you’ll need after a VBAC birth will be given to you at the hospital. There were special pads I was given that had a cooling feature. Although they were a bit odd at first, I loved using them the first night.
I was also handed an antiseptic spray for my vaginal stitches. This helped deal with the pain and quickly heal.
If you’re planning a successful VBAC with your OB/GYN, then I recommend you pack the following items into your hospital bag:
Heavy flow sanitary pads
Although the hospital may give you enough during your hospital stay, it’s important that you plan in advance for the hospitals that don’t.
These plant-based sanitary pads are great for vaginal birth since they have a cooling effect that helps with inflammation and soreness. It contains aloe vera and mint.
High-waist underwear
Comfort is important after a going into labor. A high-waist underwear with tummy control is perfect for when you’re trying to get back into clothes.
I love that these help with keeping your pad in place as well.