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[+] Women who have had high risk pregnancies, please recommend a GREAT maternal-fetal med... 21 replies
- Only one other doctor in the practice, Dr. Kessler. Edersheim was my OB for #1, and then retried from this practice last summer. But I really like Hutson, who was actually the one who delivered ds. I am trying for a VBAC and they've been supportive. Good Luck!...
Talk : : November 16, 2009
Women who have had high risk pregnancies, please recommend a GREAT maternal-fetal medicine dr. in the city. This will be my 2nd preg., I wasn't crazy about my first MFM doctor.
21 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.16.09, 11:54 AM [ Flag ]-
Thanks, but he's not maternal-fetal. I went to NYU with #1 and really didn't like it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 11:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
sharma/kalish at cornell
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 11:57 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thank you very much. Let me also add that I am high risk for two reasons- #1 I'll be 36 when I TTC and #2 I have epilepsy and take anti-epileptic drugs. Everything worked out great the first time, but I'm looking for a kinder, more attentive practice as I'm a few years older now. If anyone has epilepsy + over 35, I would appriciate feedback! TIA
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto sharma. also sylvestre and lee. never met kalish but heard she's great too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I see Dr. Sylvestre, love, love him. I do also know he's been criticized for being too laid back.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 01:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^pressed reply too fast, laid back, but he's a good fit for me because of that.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 01:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I was the or and I agree--he's very laid back but that was perfect for me too. I think he's quite smart and careful so it's a great combination.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
36 is now considered high-risk? good grief!
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 01:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]rarely in nyc, but with other medical issues, yes.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 01:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Steven Chasen
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thank you. I'll put him on the list.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Dr. Hutson, privileges at Cornell. Only one other doctor in the practice, Dr. Kessler. Edersheim was my OB for #1, and then retried from this practice last summer. But I really like Hutson, who was actually the one who delivered ds. I am trying for a VBAC and they've been supportive. Good Luck!
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^they are privtae-
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Edersheim at Cornell but she is expensive.
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]she retired, see OR above-
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: has anyone ever been to Mary D'Alton at Columbia?
[ Reply | Options ]11.16.09, 12:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]a friend of mine saw her and loved her. i see Rebarber and love that practice (on number 2 right now)
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 12:38 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Was not happy with Kalish, at all, overlooked bad test results, I found out by accident.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 02:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Dr Moritz is fantastic.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 02:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Dr. S. Gaddipatti at Mt. Sinai is terrific.
[ Reply | Options ]11.20.09, 02:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
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[+] I am 35 weeks pregnant and all of a sudden have terrible hemmorhoids. Nevere had the... 11 replies
Talk : : November 13, 2009
I am 35 weeks pregnant and all of a sudden have terrible hemmorhoids. Nevere had them in alst rpegnancy (had a c-section). What can I do to make them go away? I actually ahve not eben terrible constipated, so it must be from the weight of the uterus and other factors? I've tried cold compresses, anything else? Am I doomed to have these for the rest of the pregnancy? trying for a VBAC and read if these get too big I might not be able to have a vaginal birth? And just totally grossed out by them as well....
11 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.13.09, 06:31 AM [ Flag ]I know this is gross but can't someone offer some advice and tell me that they may go away in a few days with treatment? Please?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 06:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]they'll go away post birth
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 06:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Can I treat them in the mean time?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 06:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Sitz baths make a big difference, prep-H wipes too - I doubt you can do it before db comes, but accupuncture was really helpful for me.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 06:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you can defintiely do acupcuncture when pregnant-
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 07:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you need to talk to your OB. have you tried sitz bath?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 06:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]what's that?
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 07:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Prep H- and I wouldn't necessarily say they'll be with you until birth- you shouldn't just ignore them, treat them with OB's advice-
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 07:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I feel for you- I remember the last two weeks of preg with them and it was horribel. Maybe they'll go away with some treatment-
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]kegel! you may have to do a lot per day to see results...a few hundred at least. try the type where you gradually contract and release too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 09:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP- thanks! You know I was doing these a lot more in my last pregnancy, maybe that's why I didn't have this issue! Also going to try the sitz bath, continue with cold compresses, adn add prep H pads and just try to lay on my side versus sit when I'm at home- ugh, these are awful! Kept me awake one night A LOT!
[ Reply | Options ]11.13.09, 11:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] What's the minimum amount of time one should wait to get pregnant again following a c... 3 replies
- if you want to go for a VBAC, I've read it's best to have 18 months between deliveries- so that would mean waiting 9 months. I do think getting pregnant less than 6 months after giving birth is not usually recommended....
Talk : : November 09, 2009
What's the minimum amount of time one should wait to get pregnant again following a c-section?
3 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]11.09.09, 05:54 PM [ Flag ]after having a c-section at age 39, my ob recommended that I try to get pregnant again asap. she said no need to to wait, especially if you're an old fart like I was.
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto, mine said age was more imp than waiting a year
[ Reply | Options ]11.09.09, 06:45 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
if you want to go for a VBAC, I've read it's best to have 18 months between deliveries- so that would mean waiting 9 months. I do think getting pregnant less than 6 months after giving birth is not usually recommended.
[ Reply | Options ]11.10.09, 08:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Can someone please explain the whole point of the home birth movement? Met an evangel... 56 replies
- Unfortunately we don't have that option here. I am planning a home birth and yes it is scary, it scares me and I am not in any form a crunchy, hippy activist. I also know that my chances of having a vbac are very low in a hospital where I would automatically be made to wear a fetal monitor and have an iv and very high at home where I can move comfortably and freely and progress safely at my own pace. I was railroaded into having a c-section with...
Talk : : October 31, 2009
Can someone please explain the whole point of the home birth movement? Met an evangelistic homebirther the other night--it just seems crazy to me. Even if the risk of complication is low, the possibility of a bad outcome--the baby dying!--is so unbearable, I just don't understand why anyone would risk it?
56 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]10.31.09, 12:18 PM [ Flag ]ITA. They are nuts. I am all into being natural and green and avoiding medication and eating organically and trying to have a vaginal birth... you name it. But when it comes to the healthy birth of my child, I would never dream of doing it anywhere but in a hospital.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 12:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'm no home birth advocate (had both dcs with epidurals in hospitals) but I'm almost positive that no studies have shown that a db is more likely to die in a homebirth situation than in a hospital, IF you are doing it with an experienced person who knows how to recognize complications. Of course, there is always some anecdote where some woman had a problem and a tragic ending; however, there are similar anecdotes involving a woman who went to a hospital to give birth and had some tragic outcome due to an error on the hospital's part. I believe both are equally rare and there are some advantages to having a homebirth. For me, those wouldn't outweigh the negatives, but I can understand why some women may choose this.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 01:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]A home birth not only deprives you of medical professionals but also of medical equipment and medications. So dangerous.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 03:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]That is completely untrue. Homebirth midwives are trained medical professionals and they bring with them things like oxygen, fetal monitors, IVs, ect...They also work with women who are low risk and are trained to recognize if there are any problems and transfer the patient to the hospital if necessary. As a matter of fact, the outcomes for the mother, and the baby are BETTER>
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]why risk needing to be transferred to the hospital when you could already be there?
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 08:38 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]see. I agree and because there are no more birthing centers in NYC if I was going to have another child I'd really consider it. Things go much better for me with midwives etc. Hospitals and their procedures are not really good for many mothers or babies in normal births. I thought the birthing center was the best of both worlds but unfortunately things are driven by insurance companies fear of malpractice lawsuits.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 07:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Not true, there is excellent one at Roosevelt.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 08:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
i would never do homebirth. but my husband is an ob, and i think many who choose homebirth are reacting against the culture of the labor/delivery floors in hospitals. i think it is reasonable to be concerned that the wellbeing of you and your baby doesn't come first in the hospital, and that issues such as scheduling and protection against malpractice suits are what shape most births. most women don't understand that the interventions they receive aren't medically necessary and just speed things along. but those who do may feel justifiably upset. at home, you come first, and i think that is what is appealing.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 01:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^also, babies also die in the hospital, and for low-risk births done in capable hands, the rate of complications is actually sometimes lower for homebirths (most of these studies have been done in scandinavian countries, though). hospitals are hotbeds of infection in the U.S., and there are no incentives currently in place to fix this :(
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 01:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The culture that you are referring to has caused the c-section rate to be close to 40% in some hospitals. No way, does that help the well being of the mother or the baby. Healthy mom, healthy baby, thats what everyone wants.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]as i said, i think it is reasonable to be concerned about this--and this is one of the things that is driving the movement! i would advise every pregnant woman to find out the c-section rate of her hospital and provider. many women don't understand just how unnecessary many of these c-sections are.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 03:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I have seen true stories where the Douala's also try to let the mother die so she can sell the baby. With everything that can go wrong, it's just a bad idea. I tore so bad I needed A LOT of stitches and probably would have bled to death if I hadn't been at the hospital.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 02:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i have seen this true story about bat boy. he hides in the rafters of barns and swoops out at night to terrorize country folk.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]hey, I saw him tonight, walking a chupacabra on a leash.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Some may argue that it was the practices in the hospital that caused you to tear, if you look at homebirth statistics the instances of 2nd degree or higher tearing are very, very low. Midwives also have suture equipment with them so they can give you stitches, just the same. Doulas are not midwives.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had a hospital birth and wouldn't birth at home, it's just not my thing -- but I can actually understand the appeal of a home birth. You get to labor at your own pace, in whatever position you want, you get to labor with a midwife or doula who cares about you and the baby, you don't have to deal with strangers who are pushing drugs on you because your labor is "taking too long", you don't have to stay in some uncomfortable hospital room for two days instead of being home with dh, etc. I wouldn't do it, because of safety reasons, but frankly if I had a guarantee that the labor would go well I probably would...
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 03:19 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I am s physician and some of the most memorable cases I ever saw in med school are related to births. The first was of a brain dead baby who mom was head of a homebirth society and herself a trained midwife. It was her fourth homebirth and went extremely well until the cord came out before the baby (umbilical prolapse - incredibly rare). She was with an experienced midwife who called 911 and they got her to the hospital within 20 minutes (extremely fast) but baby did not survive. A second case I remember was of a woman who was 7.5 months pregnant with a known low lying placenta. She had been eating dinner in a restaurant when she went to the restroom with a belly cramp and then began to hemorrhage. The OB delivered her child by emergency section 3.5 minutes after she was wheeled through the door of our hospital and both mom and baby lived and thrived (despite mom needing major blood transfusions afterwards).
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 03:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]So sad. I would not dream of risking a home birth.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 03:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes prolapse cords are very rare, I don't know how your second case would qualify as a home birth. The problem is that hospitals in this country use way, way too many interventions which lead to complications, which lead to surgical births. Babies die in hospitals, so do moms. Pointing out one rare case where there was a problem with a homebirth to discredit homebirths is irresponsible.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The second case was an example where medical care can prevent an otherwise potentially disastrous outcome. I agree that anecdotes don't discredit homebirth but I know I'll never forget the sight of that pink and so-healthy appearing brain dead baby (and the unfathomable grief of her parents and family)
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 05:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I am sure not, but don't forget that midwives are medically trained practitioners, with medical degrees, not enthusiastic hobbiest.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 05:37 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Actually, my DH is an MD who works with kids...home birth tragedies are not so rare. In addition, I'd like to point out that in the countries where there are the fewest "interventions" and "surgical births", the maternal death rate is as high as 1 in 10. So many moms in the US decry the high C-Section rate without regarding the fact that this rate reflects the elimination of greater risk. If there is the slightest chance of harm to the mother or baby through natural birth, it is proactively dealt with through surgery. In light of this, it is impossible to truly calculate comparative complication rates, because you have no control population of women who might have needed a C-Section but didn't get one, as it would be unethical to risk harm to them. So all you have are the data on complications occurring as a result of natural births involving the very healthiest in ideal scenarios. Of course this population, who never had or threatened to have, any issues will fare better post-op than a woman given a C-Section for any reason. The problem is that most American women do not belong to this ideal group who promise to sail through the birth process safely and easily. Looking at data from more progressive nations where rates are lower without a corresponding rise in mortality does not address this situation: the women in France and the Scandinavian countries have much better health care and a lower obesity rate(FYI..birth complications in the US have risen in the US in direct relationship with the obesity rate) For docs faced with even a 30% chance of injury to the mom or baby, and the absolute responsibility not to let such occur, the surgical route is a good option.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 06:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]High C rates are a function of our incredibly high rates of malpractice. Which is totally logical . If I was a doctor I'd probably push it to. But be really clear the c-section rate is a product of convenience for the doctors not for the mothers/babies.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 10:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Your post doesen't exactly address what I said. Malpractice is only one aspect. Regardless, the idea that, if malpractice is such an issue, that the majority of doctors are performing major surgeries solely as a "convenience" to themselves against the interest of patients is self-contradictory. I also don't understand where this mentality of mothers/babies vs. doctors comes from. In our health care system, it is the patients responsibility to choose the best practitioner to meet their needs (or at least one they can trust won't take them to the OR on a whim). You pick the right person to be on your team, not an adversary whose expertise you solicit and pay for but then struggle against.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 06:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: as my unborn child's heart rate dropped to half of what it should have been, every time I kiss him good night, I am grateful for my c-section. Nuff said.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 07:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
The WHO sets a target rate for C-sections, based on the frequency with which they are medically required. Guess what it is? 5-10%. Rates of over 15% appear to do more harm than good (they are, after all, major surgeries). In NYC hospitals, the rates often hover around 40%. Even after adjusting for maternal age and high-risk characteristics pre-birth, this is a WHOLE bunch of unnecessary C-sections. As poster above states, it is a function of the incredibly high malpractice rates and crowded L&D floors.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 03:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The WHO target rate of 15 % is a stated ideal that cannot definitively pinpoint the "frequency with which <C-sections> are medically required." In order to determine that "rates over 15% do more harm than good", you'd need a controlled study. We don't have that,as far as I know. I also havent seen studies that can show that a "whole bunch of C-sections" are "unnecessary" after adjusting for maternal age and high-risk characteristics--what I've seen has indicated that C-sections are hard to evaluate because inextricably linked to these factors. Please share if you have info.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 07:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I am not into it but I do not like the hospitals either. Too bad more birthing centers which are comfortable yet provide medical assistance when needed were not available.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 03:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Why on earth would anyone want all that mess in their house? Come on people, L&D nurses and OBs are by and large, decent, nice people who love their jobs and their patients. They treat you nicely if you act nice too. I know, I've had 3 hospital births and loved my docs and nurses. thank God for modern medicine and competent people.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you read the responses carefully, you'd see that most of us also chose to birth at a hospital, but that doesn't mean that the choice to birth at home isn't valid under certain circumstances. No one here is trying to invalidate your choice to have a hospital birth, and we could quote anecdote after anecdote of some nightmarish hospital experience. So why so negative about someone else's choice that is no way being forced upon you.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
The US has a pretty bad infant mortality rating, we are about #29, and tied with Slovakia and Poland. Homebirth is not crazy and is practiced in conjunction with hospital births in countries who have the TOP ratings. Homebirth outcomes are often better for the baby and for the mother than hospital births. I think that some women get upset, myself included, is because they are making an educated decision to do what they think is best for them and their baby and people who have not bothered to educate themselves with the facts are constantly questioning their decisions without knowing the facts.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 04:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]A large part of the reason for the high mortality rate is that what in many countries is deemed in miscarriage in the US is operated upon and results in a live birth, that, sadly, frequently results in a death not too long after. Death rates for full term babies in the US is very low.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 06:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: we also have horrendous rates for prenatal care.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 08:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]We also have a pretty high maternal death rate as well.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 05:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Both connected to premature babies and multiples. Not for full-term single pregnancies. Seriously, people, the US has many many maternity-related issues, starting with lack of proper maternity policies and ending with high c-section rates, but high mortality rates are not it for regular pregnancies.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 08:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I can understand wanting to have a home birth. I am having my second and really planned to have a homebirth. Because of the complications of my first, which was in a hospital, I was advised by my midwife to birth in a hospital. Interestingly enough the my ob/gyn who delivered my 1st supported my homebirth decision. I was induced the 1st time and had a very medical birth, the epidural wasn't very effective, because of all the medical intervention I never felt the urge to push, but pushed simply because the nurses told me too. I probably started pushing too early. I pushed for 4 hours and tore my cervix. I lost mass amounts of blood and was rushed into the OR. I would like to avoid all of this by having a homebirth. Because they don't have an explanation for why my cervix tore the midwife thinks I should be in hospital in the event this happens again. I was very saddened and disappointed to hear this. I am praying and am hopeful that I won't have a medical birth this time. I plan to labor at home as long as possible. In most of the world people birth at home. The US has an incredibly high cesarean rate. Most are not medically needed, but performed to avoid lawsuits. There are many guidelines hospital follow, not for the health and safety of the baby and mother but for insurance companies.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 05:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]In "most of the world" where people birth at home, the maternal mortality rate is 1 in 10. For more on this statistic, check out the World Health Organization (WHO)website. Also, it is not true that most C-Sections are not medically necessary...they are performed when there is some indication of risk to the mother or baby. Since every birth is unique, it cannot be shown ahead of time exactly how things will play out. But once you refrain from a C-section when there is an indication of risk, you gamble with the heath of the mom and baby. Some docs(and moms) are fine with the gamble, others feel that even a slight risk is too much. And to say that surgery is performed in order to prevent lawsuits as though that is trivial is the most senseless thing I have heard; there is no potential for a lawsuit unless there is harm to the patient. Harm and lawsuits go together, so if a C-Section will avoid a lawsuit, that means it will also avoid material harm.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 06:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]your not comparing apples to apples. Homebirth midwives here in the US make sure that their patients get excellent prenatal care. If there are any problems, or risk, then they transfer their patients to hospitals. Countries like the UK, Holland and Germany use midwives for most births (in and out of hospitals) and OB's for the small percentage of high risk patients. Many of the interventions that are routine in hospitals cause further problems which then necessitate a need for a c-section. Yes, surgery is performed in order to prevent lawsuits, and it is performed for the convenience of the practitioner which is why most are performed during normal business hours.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 09:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
While I may not want a homebirth (and I can't imagine giving birth in MY apartment), I completely understand why some people do. I really like the model they have in some other countries of maternity clinics/hospitals (essentially birth centers) where all they do is deliver babies, midwives and OBs together. All the benefits of modern medicine, without many of the downsides of a traditional hospital - no one is rushing you, no one in the facility is "sick" so women aren't treated so much like patients, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]10.31.09, 09:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Unfortunately we don't have that option here. I am planning a home birth and yes it is scary, it scares me and I am not in any form a crunchy, hippy activist. I also know that my chances of having a vbac are very low in a hospital where I would automatically be made to wear a fetal monitor and have an iv and very high at home where I can move comfortably and freely and progress safely at my own pace. I was railroaded into having a c-section with #1 and I am surprised that more women, especially women in New York, aren't taking a stronger position about how birth is handled here.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 05:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Honestly, home birth after C is absolutely crazy!! Have you spoken to several good doctors about this decision?! Not only could you lose your db, you are taking a risk of leaving your husband and first db motherless! WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS??
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 09:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]cut the hysteria would you..........
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 10:32 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]It's not hysteria. Read the medical research. It's irresponsible and inane.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 10:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Where's the research you are talking about it, I have read and made my decision based on research done.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 06:19 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Where do they do this?
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 03:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
There is no question that I had a totally uncomplicated pregnancy, every prenatal test was perfect, the delivery was completely uncomplicated, and DB had an extremely rare complication at birth that I can't get into without outing myself...but DB would be dead, no question if I had given birth at home. There is no question about it. So yes, I get upset when homebirthers talk to me about how great it is. I feel like they don't care that my baby would have died, because it is "so rare".
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 05:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]They do care about your baby, don't think for a second that anyone doesn't. There is always risk involved, in any birth, most people who choose homebirth take that into consideration.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 11:35 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Read this. It's completely chilling! http://skepticalob.blogspot.com/2009/10/after-homebirth-death.html
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 09:41 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]My friend had one of those home-births in the birthing pool (I think that's what it's called). It was a great thing to *watch*. I would support any friend wanting to do a home birth. But get my butt to a hospital fast. LOL. I think home birthing has made a come back because women do want to have more control of their birth, body, and baby. The only home birth part of the movement I oppose are the women who choose to give birth alone without DH or any help at all. That is incredibly stupid! Even if you go back to before the time of hospitals, women had help and support from the "elder" women in the area who helped with "turning the baby", preparing, teas and tinctures for pain relief, welcoming the new life into the world.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 10:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA- hospital for me. But dh is from the Netherlands and his sister (who still lives there) had all three of her dc at home. It's done regularly over there. But, even if you don't consider the risks, just the MESS alone would send me to the nearest maternity ward. Ugh. And the PAIN. Ugh. As my OB said, having a baby is the only time where having pain is considered acceptable, but it shouldn't be.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 06:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is the most ignorant thing I've ever heard. The pain of childbirth actually serves many purposes, biochemically and physiologically.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 08:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Okay, because I'm so ignorant, please tell me, what function does the pain of childbrith serve? Please provide references- my reference is my MD who certainly is not ignorant.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 09:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I was actually suggesting that your MD is ignorant on this topic, not you. Here is a link to a great article about the purpose of pain, by Dr. Lothian, a professor, childbirth educator and board member of Lamaze Intl. Her articles starts on p. 16. These are great guidebooks BTW, read the NYC guide when I was pregnant and it was helpful in summarizing shockingly high rates of Cs in NYC. http://www.choicesinchildbirth.org/birthguide/HealthyBirth_4b.pdf
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 11:44 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
If I knew that nothing would go wrong, the idea of being at home is lovely. But things do go wrong, I know 2 people personally that lost their babies during home birth, albeit in a 20 year period. So I think birthing centers in hospitals, staffed by midwives, are a great halfway point. And you can leave after 12 hours. They even have jacuzzis.
[ Reply | Options ]11.01.09, 07:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Things go wrong in hospitals too.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 11:33 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
the point of homebirth, as i understand it, is to take a non medical condition (pregnancy) out of the realm of the hospital. seems like a point of view that is valid and at worst won't affect you because you wouldn't choose to do it.
[ Reply | Options ]11.02.09, 11:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] what do you think is the most important piece of information you communicated about w... 7 replies
- I have a practice where I see a bunch of diff't doctors and don't know who will deliver me AND have found that they don't even share the same philosophy's vis a vis VBAC's or episiotomies. I'm out in the burbs and already switched practices once and still think this is the best of what is offered but it's really frustrating....
Talk : : October 13, 2009
what do you think is the most important piece of information you communicated about with your OB FOR labor/delivery/birth either through a birth plan or just verbal instruction?
7 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]10.13.09, 02:00 PM [ Flag ]for #1 she didn't listen to a word I said so none of it. for #2 -- i want a natural birth.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 02:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that must have been frustrating
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 02:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that was why i switched doctors for #2. learning: figure out if your OB is in line with your birth goals early on, if possible.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 02:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I have a practice where I see a bunch of diff't doctors and don't know who will deliver me AND have found that they don't even share the same philosophy's vis a vis VBAC's or episiotomies. I'm out in the burbs and already switched practices once and still think this is the best of what is offered but it's really frustrating.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 02:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that I wanted an epidural
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 03:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I made it VERY clear that I did not want a c-section unless it was medically necessary. I told my OB and all the nurses and had it written in my birth plan as well. I ended up having her vaginally (even though I tore bad) but was very happy that they respected my decision to have my baby the way I wanted.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 03:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I will do what it takes to deliver a healthy baby. Oh, and I also let her know that she is the expert (best OB in our area) and that I expected her to communicate with me but in the end I wasn't going to push any sketchy demands on my experience. In other words, I trust her.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 04:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] is it better to risk a tear than have an episiotomy? 7 replies
- slow down your pushing as the head comes out. My old OB did perennial massage as do I think the younger OB's. Since I had a c-section though, I have no personal experience and can't really answer. That being said, I am trying for a VBAC and have requested that my doc not do an episiotomy....
Talk : : October 13, 2009
is it better to risk a tear than have an episiotomy?
7 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]10.13.09, 01:46 PM [ Flag ]yes. heals better if tears naturally.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 01:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes, I only got one stitch.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 01:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]don't ask me. i had a horrible tear five years ago that i'm not fully recovered from either physically or psychologically. if i had it to do over again i'd ask for an episiotomy. or a c-section.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 01:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I think it depends on whom you ask. Pro-natural birthing books all say to avoid it and that it's not necessary if your doctor knows how to slow down your pushing as the head comes out. My old OB did perennial massage as do I think the younger OB's. Since I had a c-section though, I have no personal experience and can't really answer. That being said, I am trying for a VBAC and have requested that my doc not do an episiotomy.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 01:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Docs are now taught tearing is better, because they heal faster (b/c tears typically don't go all the way through, and the tissue only yields where it needs to). This is recent, though, so most older docs have been taught that episiotomies are better. I guess there might be rare examples where episiotomies are better, but I think that is really unusual.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 02:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^A lot of what is taught in med school has absolutely no basis in evidence, though, so I don't know how much stock I would put in this!
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 02:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had a horrible tear that took weeks to recover from (worse than the C-section I had three years later). I would definitely ask about the perennial massage and tell your doc you're concerned about this.
[ Reply | Options ]10.13.09, 03:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Any moms who successfully vbac'd? A month away from delivery and feeling much anxiety... 11 replies
- in practice, but another practice that steps in every other weekend which is not very vbac friendly and so I switched from there) that there is the possibility that I may opt on the spot for a c-section than go through vbac with people I don't trust. Does that make sense? Am I over-thinking all...
- My friend VBAC'd successfully at Roosevelt w/Dr. Rhee and said it was a great experience. I...
Talk : : September 30, 2009
Any moms who successfully vbac'd? A month away from delivery and feeling much anxiety and really have no one to talk to about it. DH is supportive, and keeps telling me not to worry but doesn't understand that for me part of this is a mind over matter issue. Can you please share your experiences and did any of you go drug-free? Thanks!
11 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.30.09, 12:06 PM [ Flag ]i was very anxious and had a drug free one (i had planned on trying to go without epi and thankfully labor progressed rapidly). even so, it was tough as anything. had tearing and stitches, but it was still 100 times better, physically and emotionally too, than c-section. stay focused - you can do it!
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 12:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]did you have a doula? I had one for #1, but don't want to shell out money again especially if end up with another c-section.
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 01:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i did, but really she wasn't essential to outcome. it was more the supportiveness of my providers (midwives plus doc at roosevelt) and my trust in them and being able to stay focused. good luck!
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 07:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks for your response. I delivered #1 at SLR and found the nurses and staff to be excellent, and I loved my Ob. We're now out in the burbs and my overall sense of the hospital is that the culture is not as pro-natural birthing, bfing, etc. as SLR. 3 of the 4 docs at my practice are pro-vbac, but the issue is that 4th doctor or the doctors who cover them every other weekend. I'm praying that I get the pro-vbac ones when I deliver.
[ Reply | Options ]10.01.09, 11:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I did, but not sure I'm much help b/c first db was scheduled C, so there was no psych out factor of what if I go through labor again only to get a C section.
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 12:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]For me the mental part is more getting over the 1% scare. The 1% is so incredibly low and, in fact, is less than 1% and yet I worry about how I will know if the pain is normal or if it means something is wrong. Also, I am prepared that if a certain doctor delivers me (there are 5 in practice, but another practice that steps in every other weekend which is not very vbac friendly and so I switched from there) that there is the possibility that I may opt on the spot for a c-section than go through vbac with people I don't trust. Does that make sense? Am I over-thinking all of this?
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 01:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had a crach c for #1, then scheduled a c for #2. Went into labor a few days early and had a great delivery, VBAC. It was a little scary as I didn't get all read up on what to expect but the nurse took me through every step with no problem. Recovery is 1000x easier, even with #1 under-foot.
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 12:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is definitely something I want to hear. My recovery from c-section wasn't that bad, except for the first day when I got home I was in more pain from trying to have a bm than what I had experienced during the worst part of my labor. That alone was enough for me to not want another c-section. And yes, with #1 to care for as well, I hate to not be able to pick him up because of surgery.
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 01:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]BMs are terrible after vb's as well-
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 01:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]internally or externally. I was in hell internally.
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 01:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
My friend VBAC'd successfully at Roosevelt w/Dr. Rhee and said it was a great experience. I was fortunate to have two natural VB's also at Roosevelt and highly recommend it compared to other NYC birthing facilities.
[ Reply | Options ]10.08.09, 01:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Due in a month with #2. Planning on vbac, but have to admit that the thought of labor... 1 reply
Talk : : September 30, 2009
Due in a month with #2. Planning on vbac, but have to admit that the thought of laboring without drugs (which I want to do and feel will increase my chances of successful vbac) exhausts me. Not sure if I have the energy, tools or am strong enough to do it. Tried with #1 and got through a lot but still ended up with c-section. Also, found that one of the drs in practice not as pro-vbac as the other doctors. I'm thinking if he's on call when I go into labor I'll just opt for section. I am so anxious about the whole thing. Ultimately, I just want a healthy baby and healthy recovery for us both.
1 reply [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.30.09, 07:09 AM [ Flag ]^^^ I should also add that we had a doula for #1 who was phenomenal, but I just don't want to spend that kind of money this time especially if there's a possibility I'll have another c-section.
[ Reply | Options ]09.30.09, 07:13 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] How late in the pregnancy can a csection be scheduled? If you had one, how far along ... 10 replies
- I had a repeat c-section scheduled pretty early in the pregnancy, but I was on the fence about VBAC so even though it was scheduled, I could opt out up until surgery date....
Talk : : September 28, 2009
How late in the pregnancy can a csection be scheduled? If you had one, how far along were you?
10 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.28.09, 01:34 PM [ Flag ]depends on the reason for scheduling-
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]reason: elective
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Not mean to be snarky, but what are you afraid of? If you want to try to avoid labor altogether, then you should schedule on the earlir side, like 39 weeks. if it is just a vaginal delivery that you want to avoid, you can schedule for as late as 42 weeks, with the knowledge that when you go into labor you will move immediately to the c. Most people I know who elect to have a c want to have the baby out as soon as possible and elect for the earliest possible scheduling, which is 39 weeks.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I think they can schedule it at pretty much any time. No personal experience with this one, though. I know of one person who had a planned C about a week before her due date (very large baby).
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:38 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]with my first I scheduled it on Thursday for the following tuesday
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I scheduled mine a couple of months ahead of time. Best time for an elective is 39 weeks. Don't schedule too early unless there's a health reason to do so. Don't schedule too late because you may go into labor. After your water breaks, c-sections are riskier. More infections.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]wait until your due date--40 weeks--lot of studies on respiratory issues prior to 39 weeks
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]It depends on your doctor.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a repeat c-section scheduled pretty early in the pregnancy, but I was on the fence about VBAC so even though it was scheduled, I could opt out up until surgery date.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 01:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you schedule at 40 weeks, your chances of going into labor are extremely high. 39 weeks is the best choice. My friend scheduled 5 days before her due date. It was her second baby and she went into labor the night before her surgery was scheduled. Major bummer!
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 02:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Gotta vent. Any other expecting women sick of people, particularly men and women who... 18 replies
- Everyone handles pain differently. I had to have a c-section with my first child and my friends who had had vaginal deliveries all told me how lucky I was that I didn't have to go through the pain of delivering. Well, I had a VBAC with my 2nd child and I will tell you that recovering from vaginal deliveries is much easier than a c-section. So why did I listen to people who had no basis for comparison?...
Talk : : September 27, 2009
Gotta vent. Any other expecting women sick of people, particularly men and women who’ve never given birth, telling you how painful birth is and how you’re really going to want tons of drugs and even a c-section? I’m particularly done with the painful penis analogies from men (how do they know what a watermelon coming out of their penis feels like?) I have to be honest I won’t know what “the pain” feels like until I have that experience, so how can I judge it without any sort of reference point? When has anyone ever told someone going into the hospital for a procedure/surgery/etc.: “ooooo, that’s really going to hurt, you are REALLY going to be in pain”? Why do ignorant people feel the need to say that to pregnant women?
18 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.27.09, 07:49 AM [ Flag ]I really think your hormonal and making something out of nothing
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 08:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]It's actually just like a REALLLLY big poop.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 08:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Because most people are morons & idiots, not very bright. Just ignore them, can't take what everyone says seriously. Just wait until you get the kid and everyone has an opnion how to bring them up, nursing, circum. etc. etc.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 08:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]this is weird. Why do you engage in these discussions? I can't remember ever discussing labor pain with men or women who hadn't had children. I might have asked some women who had given birth, but those were solicited discussions.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 10:02 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Funny, I actually don't engage in this kind of conversation or solicit advice. Actually the men who've been volunteering the info. have children so they seem to think of themselves as authorities on the pain involved. I guess I'm learning that pregnant ladies are treated as community property and I do see now that this will come in to play yet again once the kid is born. New m.o. will be to laugh it off as advised!
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 11:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Just ignore. My sister was like that. She never had children and was more freaked out than I was about giving birth. According to her I would be rolling in pain for hours. I just laughed it off. Turned out it was like having a massive poop. No big deal.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 11:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had more of a problem with absolute strangers asking how I was feeling all the time. Especially at work. I felt like, "we have never met. Please dont think we have something in commong because I am having a baby." Its just pregnancy discomfort, really. Also, childbirth is such a scary, scary event, because each one is different, that I think most people are sincerely afraid. While it is scary, most women do it, and are just fine. YOu'll be fine.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 11:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]People act so weird towards pregnant women. A woman whom I had never met before came up to me and started drumming on my stomach when I was about 8 mos pg. A lot of stuff like that, aggresive behaviors.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 12:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Everyone handles pain differently. I had to have a c-section with my first child and my friends who had had vaginal deliveries all told me how lucky I was that I didn't have to go through the pain of delivering. Well, I had a VBAC with my 2nd child and I will tell you that recovering from vaginal deliveries is much easier than a c-section. So why did I listen to people who had no basis for comparison?
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 12:32 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I agree. It's all subjective. I'm actually not afraid of the pain that I expect will be a part of child birth, but I'm certainly not going to make up my mind about the whole kit and kaboodle until I've experienced it for myself. And even then, I would never tell someone about my experience in the expectation that they are going to experience the exact same thing. That's kind of comical. From now on I've decided that all birth stories should come with an asterisk: "take all labor advice with a huge grain of salt".
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 12:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
well yes.. but it WILL hurt..
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I hate to say it, but once the baby is born, you'll then have people telling you stupid things about how to deal with your child!
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 01:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i can't tell you how many people told me i needed to put my 3 month old in a hat when it was warm outside.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 12:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
because we empathize and are giving you the benefit of our experience. in my experience, an epidural is crucial. maybe it won't be for you, but for me it was. you're overreacting. and yes, people say stupid things all the time
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 01:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Not overreacting, just venting:) What else would a board like this be for? But nice to hear that you agree people say stupid things to pregnant women, kinda the point of the post.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 02:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Don't listen to them, people are afraid of the unknown and they are projecting their own insecurities. Read Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, there are lots of nice stories that will make you feel better about giving birth; she does mention in the book that it is like pooing and she has a very non-clinical approach that is comforting. This is just the start of the advice though. I had a coworker corner me after my dd was born to quiz me about my BF and pumping habits and to tell me what her schedule was and what I should do, this was all unsolicited and really embarrassing to me.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 11:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]to become pregnant is to open yourself up to public comments. you don't need to take any of them to heart. move on.
[ Reply | Options ]09.28.09, 12:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I completely understand. I'm a bartender, and all of my (male) regulars have a great deal to say about the issue. I get especially angry when they think I'm "crazy" for going for an all natural birth without drugs. They comment on how I'm going to be begging for an epidural. Tell 'em to shove off, and then forget about it. This is your body, baby and experience.
[ Reply | Options ]10.02.09, 11:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] 4 replies
- Sad story but that midwife-- won't say her name here-- is widely known to be VERY risky and take on risky births that shouldn't be homebirths (i.e. VBACS, multiples, etc.). And since the Business of being born came out, she has increased her births like crazy and now staffs out the labor and only shows up at the end like an OB. I don't think homebirths in general...
Talk : : September 25, 2009
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/32795933
4 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.25.09, 07:41 PM [ Flag ]I'm not impressed by that story. I would never consider a homebirth myself, though I am a strong advocate for unmedicated births. I feel that if the medical industry were not so extreme in its practices, women would not have to flee the hospitals. My first choice for dc #1 was a birthing center, but after monitoring, the hospital admitted me to regular labor and delivery because of irregularities in my labor. I did end up with a c-section and am grateful every day for the fact that I have a healthy child and that I am healthy. For my second I am opting for a vbac. I had to switch Ob's in order to find one who would do this. The problem with the Today Show's coverage is that this story is one example of what can go wrong with a midwife directed homebirth while not fully exploring the stats of births throughout the rest of the industrial world -- all of which have an incredibly high percentage of midwife directed births, lower c-section rates and lower infant mortality and maternal mortality rate than the US. The notion that women are seeking home births because they are fashionable is ludicrous and insulting. It's because women want to have some say in their birthing experiences. Ultimately, the most important thing is a healthy baby and a healthy mom, but I don't believe that doing so in a safe medical setting which also acknowledges women's natural abilities to birth children are mutually exclusive.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 07:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]directed births, lower c-section rates and lower infant mortality and maternal mortality rate than the US. The notion that women are seeking home births because they are fashionable is ludicrous and insulting. It's because women want to have some say in their birthing experiences. Ultimately, the most important thing is a healthy baby and a healthy mom, but I don't believe that doing so in a safe medical setting which also acknowledges women's natural abilities to birth children are mutually exclusive.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 07:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^^^ sorry. Let's try that again. homebirth while not fully exploring the stats of births throughout the rest of the industrial world -- all of which have an incredibly high percentage of midwife directed births, lower c-section rates and lower infant mortality and maternal mortality rate than the US. The notion that women are seeking home births because they are fashionable is ludicrous and insulting. It's because women want to have some say in their birthing experiences. Ultimately, the most important thing is a healthy baby and a healthy mom, but I don't believe that doing so in a safe medical setting which also acknowledges women's natural abilities to birth children are mutually exclusive
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 07:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Sad story but that midwife-- won't say her name here-- is widely known to be VERY risky and take on risky births that shouldn't be homebirths (i.e. VBACS, multiples, etc.). And since the Business of being born came out, she has increased her births like crazy and now staffs out the labor and only shows up at the end like an OB. I don't think homebirths in general are that dangerous, provided the mother is low-risk.
[ Reply | Options ]09.26.09, 05:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Epidurals and Pushing: how does the pusing phase differ w/ and w/o an epidural? I ima... 51 replies
- how did db "shoot out so fast"? Can you elaborate? I had c-section first time and am seriously considering VBAC so this is interesting to me. Thanks....
Talk : : September 24, 2009
Epidurals and Pushing: how does the pusing phase differ w/ and w/o an epidural? I imagine you would feel less, so would this make you more or less likely to push too fast and risk tearing, etc.... Any have experience with both scenarios (or just one)?
51 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.24.09, 05:41 PM [ Flag ]We did hypnobirthing successfully. No painkillers and I was sort of a long way distant from the pain, but still present in the room. But you don't push in hypnobirthing either. They go for a different sensation.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 05:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]how do you get the baby out w/o pushing?
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 05:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The body knows what to do. This is why pregnant women in comas have actually delivered babies vaginally.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]holy lord that's weird to think about.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Have no experience w/epidurals, but if you express your concerns to your OB or midwife, she/he might be willing to work with you during the pushing phase to minimize tearing. That's what I did with 2nd db, after tearing badly with 1st because the db shot out so fast.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 05:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]how did db "shoot out so fast"? Can you elaborate? I had c-section first time and am seriously considering VBAC so this is interesting to me. Thanks.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Not OR, but I take it to mean came out fast and furious which is how my dd was delivered also with no epidural. I pushed for 12 minutes so the whole thing went very fast and although they thought it would and gave me an episiotomy to prevent tearing, I tore anyway. There just wasn't enough time to position in the best way or ease her up, she kind of just popped out.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 07:07 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR: She came out in 3 pushes. She was only 34 wks, so small (4.5 lbs). Notwithstanding her small size, she came out so quickly and with force that I tore pretty badly. 2nd baby was full term, larger and I tore slightly less because OB slowed down that part.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 05:49 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had an epidural and was told to push when I felt a contraction, nurse explained that b/c of the epidural I would only feel a tightening (which was the contraction). I felt absolutely nothing at all so they had to tell me when to push. However, I could feel enough to push. I was able to push out dd is 20 minutes. The nurse told me after that I must have been really focused b/c most people with an epidural push for a lot longer than I did.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 05:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]one pushes when dilated at least 10 cm and water is broken. pushing happens at peak of contractions. with epidural, the monitors tell the nurses when to tell YOU to push because you no longer feel the contractions at all.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I also had an epidural and pushed for only about 10 minutes. I was opposed to having one prior to going into labor but my ob encouraged me to keep an open mind. In retrospect it was the BEST decision ever to get one. It turned labor from an incredibly uncomfortable/painful beyond belief experience into something where I was able to rest and relax for about 2-3 hours before the delivery and then actually enjoy the whole miracle of delivery and first few hours of babylife without a ton of pain. In retrospect I wished I could have had one about a month before delivery and kept it in until 2 weeks after!
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Wow, you ladies were lucky! I had an epidural which helped me through 12 hours of contractions. When it came to pushing the medis had worn off (meaning it was truly the most harrowing, painful experience in my whole life when DS came out), but I pushed for almost 3 hours. Doc said 10 more minutes and we go to c-section which I wanted to prevent at all costs. Considering that women push for 20 min on average I'm sure the epidural caused my "delay".
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i waited on my epidurals, for #1, really didn't want it and tried to hold off for 12 hours but once i finally go the shot, dd practically slid out of me, for #2, did the shot while 8cm, just didn't feel like dragging out the hours, dh and #1 were waiting for me in the waiting room as this baby came early and our birth plans were just getting formulated that morning, go figure.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
risk of tearing, i think, has more to do with the size of your baby. that said, with #1, i had a little stitch, with #2, none. both were 6lbs and between 10 and 12 oz.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 06:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i've also heard that pushing too fast can increase risk of tearing....
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 07:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Had one with epi and one without. Pushing was not an issue with or without. It was the bad contractions that were the issue. I was having gut wrenching contractions that felt like they were squeezing my body from the inside out-like a I was a rag being twisted. When it was time to push, my body knew what to do and I had no problem. 3 pushes with both of them and they were out. With the epidural, Which didn't take 100%, I missed out on all the contraction stuff and had tons of energy for pushing. With the epidural, I didn't have the natural urge to push though. The doctor had to coach me through it.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 07:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a wonderful epidural. I was attempting natural but like another poster said, I had a lot of pain and my contractions were very close together so I could not recover sufficiently between them. Got the epidural at 7cm dilated after being in the hospital for 6 hours. I could still feel contractions but there was no more pain. I pushed for a couple of hours and had a big baby 8 lbs 6 ounces. I had one stitch toward the urethra side of the vagina. Felt the tear when it happened but it did not hurt. When they went to stitch me up I could feel them poking me with the needle so they had to give me a local. Stitch healed fine, sex is great, now pg with #2! Good luck!
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 12:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Seriously? Just have a c-section. They are SO much easier, even with recovery. Having one a few months ago was the best decision I ever made.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 06:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]c-sections are not the right choice for everyone. I wanted to avoid one at all costs, unless medically necessary, and delivered twice vaginally. With the epidural and a couple of motrin afterwards, it was probably just as "easy" as your c-section.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 06:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]are you trolling? because this is a dangerous suggestion.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Not at all. I pushed for a little bit then OK'd the c-section because the kid had a big head. I am now happy that all future kids will be c-section. Why put yourself through the pain?
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:46 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: because c/s babies are more likely to have respiratory problems or be rehospitalized, even controlling for other health problems
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]This statement is mislead. These problems occur mainly in babies whose mothers had to go through an -emergency- c-section, not an elective one. There was already something going wrong with the delivery process. Planned c-sections do not carry elevated risks for the above.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 09:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I thought it was the opposite. Because the planned c babes are extracted pre-term they tend to have lung development issues.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 09:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]The answer to problems due to extracting babies pre-term is to not extract them pre-term. I've read those studies and they were looking at babies who were taken out at 37 weeks. The obvious fix is to wait until 40 weeks.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 11:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
np: wrong. elective cs do carry increased risk of respiratory probs. the theory is that laboring and contractions "squeeze" fluid out of lungs.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:38 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]This type of respiratory distress is both rare and is almost always transitory.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 11:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
This is not true at all. You're not squeezing the fluid out, it doesn't matter if it's elective.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
hum. you're lucky, i found c extremely painful. but to answer why put yourself through the pain? because it is better for dc to go through the birth canal. and scheduling a c means you have to do it before the db is full term, also risky. anther thing is all c babies have to have antibiotics first thing, which causes a whole host of potential issue.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Huh. My C-section baby is VERY healthy, has been since birth. Not one issue. In fact, he's VERY large for his age. Hearty stock, I suppose.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]the plural of anecdote is not data
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 09:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Love that quote, I am stealing it.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 09:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Mine too Wish I had planned the C - I had the emergency C and also had a window in my epidural so I didn't get any pain relief. It was a nightmare. Baby went sunnyside and couldn't come out. Almost broke my pelvis - I'm very tiny boned.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
OP: btdt. thanks for the useless input.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
i had epi for #1, no drugs for #2. pushing was 4 pushes without epi vs. almost an hour with it. part of that was probably the difference between a first and 2d labor, but with the epi,i had no idea when to push and missed some contrax. without it, i was pushing almost involuntarily, and the baby was, i think, much lower down when i started.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 06:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had an epidural but asked them to turn it off well before I had to push. Helped me through some of the contractions but I wanted to feel it too.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:17 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had an epidural with my db and while I don't regret the pain relief part of it at all I can tell you that it does interfere with pushing. I had to wait for it to wear off before I could push because when you can't feel anything from the waist down...you get the idea. However, the delivery was perfectly normal and non-problematic (aside from being maybe 2 hours later than it would have been if I'd gone 100% natural).
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]had one with and one without. The one with was induced and contractions were hideous and went on forever - I guess my body just wasn't as ready as my ob was. I pushed when told to and tore like crazy. Had to have additional surgery to repair fistula. Not pretty. The one without was hard work and yes there was pain, but I was able to deal with it. It was the most amazing and beautiful experience of my life. I wish my older dc was allowed to enter the world as peacefully.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:29 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]1st with epi, 2nd without. With epi, I misheard instructions and pushed too hard, wound up with a lateral tear that was a real bummer. No tear with #2 and a much faster recovery. Both births were great but I think a lot of it had to do with fear-- was able to stay on top of contractions with #2 because I had experience. W/#1 I didn't think I would make it. GL!
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]no pun intended i assume.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 08:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had a drug free birth (1st) and an epidural birth (2nd). Pushing went much much faster in my epidural birth. 12 minutes!! BUT, it is usually easier the second time around. Just my opinion - don't get freaked out by all the people who tell you that if you get an epi you won't be able to push and will end up with a C. It simply isn't so. IF you are so inclined (and I'm not recommending this) - talk to all the women in your life who have given birth - chances are, most had epi and pushed just fine.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 09:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]statistically it is so, though
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:00 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA with this. In fact, I'll repeat it: talk to women you know rather than do internet searches or even on boards like this. I haven't heard of anyone not being able to push b/c of an epi. I had an epi and then a c/s, but not because I couldn't push! the epi was wonderful btw. good luck.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]oh, didn't read above carefully-- I guess I would recommend you talk to other women you know! :) good luck again.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:11 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]how many people do you know who had an epi and then a c-section? Epi leads to c-section. Upwards of 50% of the time
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I did but not because of the epi - I posted above about the baby turning. My sister had 2 inductions and 2 epis and had no c section. Most of my friends had epis and almost all weren't c sections. You are incorrect
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]there is a direct correlation with the increase in c-section and use of epi.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 11:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Epidural does NOT increase incidence of CS. It increases rate of instrumented delivery, but not cs.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 02:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
np: Had an epidural with both pregnancies. First one - took 80 or so minutes of pushing. Second one, took 10 minutes of pushing. The epidural was great both times. Only regret not getting it slightly sooner with the second. (Labor just happened faster.)
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 10:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]#1 - managed to get the epi right before the pushing phase. Generally sucked b/c I couldn't feel when to push, but still attempted to. The epi wore off after about an hour at which point I was tired from attempting to push against contractions I couldn't feel, but still managed to pop out dc. #2 came so fast there was no time for an epi and my (few) pushes were incredibly productive. #3 - somehow managed to time it just right - epi got me through nasty contractions and wore off just in time for about 30 minutes of productive pushing. I guess 3rd time was a charm.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 11:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I have done both, not by choice. #1 was perfect epi - dosed so I could still move and push easily, but controlled pain. #2 was totally overdosed such that i had no control over my legs, could push, but the sensation of being "paralyzed" was terrifying. #3 was misplaced and the epi fell out, no one realized or believed me until I was begging Dh to give me a an emergency c-section himself, and I ended up laboring without it. 3 different hospital so the skill of the anesthesiologist is really important IMO. FWIW, having the epi and having it dosed correctly was so much the better experience.
[ Reply | Options ]09.25.09, 02:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Anyone had a c-section that still hurts when you push or rub on the scar like 2 years... 8 replies
- I am 6 months pregnant so this could be a factor. I have a gross scar, I ahte it. My doc said if I have another c they will fix it up to make it look better? Maybe they sew up over the old scar or soemthing? Hopefully I'll just have the VBAC that I am going for-...
Talk : : September 22, 2009
Anyone had a c-section that still hurts when you push or rub on the scar like 2 years later? I mean my scars doesn’t hurt if I don't touch it or physically push hard or rub against it. Is this normal? I am considering having another child but is a bit concerned on this..
8 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.22.09, 01:52 PM [ Flag ]I would feel an ache and tenderness around the area of my c-section after some strenuous activity like lifting heavy things, or even pushing my double stroller for long distances, even after 3 years.
[ Reply | Options ]09.22.09, 02:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]No, not normal. Mine is 2 years and I have a horrific recovery (6 weeks, layed-up) but now, no issue. I even just did as you said and poked—nothing.
[ Reply | Options ]09.22.09, 02:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Do they try to cut into the same c-section scar for the second c-section or you will have a new cut scar for the next c-section?
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 12:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]new cut. scars don't heal as well as new tissue, so you will have one close to but not on top of the old one. Unless you VABC of course.
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 12:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
mine doesn't hurt per se but it defintiely is sensitive. It's been 16 months since my c. but I am 6 months pregnant so this could be a factor. I have a gross scar, I ahte it. My doc said if I have another c they will fix it up to make it look better? Maybe they sew up over the old scar or soemthing? Hopefully I'll just have the VBAC that I am going for-
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 01:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]where is your scar? mine is way way down. i mean unless i brazilian i can't see it (not that i'm super hairy, ug sorry tmi).
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 01:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I'm 18 months post c/s and it doesn't hurt at all. It does get itchy or numb once in a while, but it doesn't hurt. Maybe call your OB or GP?
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 01:09 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]My scar is really pronounced and protrudes/bulges out, a total raised new slightly darker skin scar. Also itches sometimes. Anyone experience the samething?
[ Reply | Options ]09.24.09, 01:10 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] 10wks pregnant and trying to decide between delivering at St. Luke's Roosevelt and St... 5 replies
- I just decided St V. Gave birth to my son at Lenox Hill, but like the fact that St V. will not separate mom & baby automatically. I am aiming for a VBAC and they seem very supportive of that as well....
Talk : : September 21, 2009
10wks pregnant and trying to decide between delivering at St. Luke's Roosevelt and St. Vincent's Hospitals. Please share your experiences (or what you've heard) about the labor and delivery and birthing centers at these hospitals. Your help is much appreciated!
5 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.21.09, 07:16 AM [ Flag ]Please any advice/stories are really helpful. I need to make a decision within the next few days.
[ Reply | Options ]09.22.09, 06:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I just decided St V. Gave birth to my son at Lenox Hill, but like the fact that St V. will not separate mom & baby automatically. I am aiming for a VBAC and they seem very supportive of that as well.
[ Reply | Options ]09.22.09, 06:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i delivered at st vincent's manhattan. the nurses were great. really went above and beyond. i've also delivered at another manhattan hospital where the nurses were overworked and couldn't help you unless it was a dire emergency. (i was told to clean out my own toilet b/c they wouldn't call maintenance or come help). but at st vincnets there were kind, caring, and they just had time. i had my baby in the nicu and they made the experience so much less horrible than it could've been.
[ Reply | Options ]09.22.09, 06:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Roosevelt Labor and Delivery experience was top notch, postpartum was nothing to write home about, but I hear postpartum is lousy everywhere - quality of care drops.
[ Reply | Options ]09.22.09, 06:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Delivered at St. V and the nursing staff was excellent. So helpful and so caring. Postpartum care was excellent as well. Nurses helped with nursing, with everything I needed.
[ Reply | Options ]09.27.09, 06:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] If you had vaginal delivery, how much tearing, if any, did you have? Did you suffer o... 24 replies
- not sure yet. at 27 weeks they estimated 2.2 lbs, which i think is average or slightly above. First was not a large baby. Had c-section and am seriously considering VBAC with some trepidation....
Talk : : September 08, 2009
If you had vaginal delivery, how much tearing, if any, did you have? Did you suffer other problems/complications as a result of v. delivery?
24 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.08.09, 05:59 PM [ Flag ]With first db, had 2nd degree tear, not from the size of baby, but from how fast she came out. With 2nd db, I told OB I was afraid of same thing happening, and OB helped guide me during the pushing phase, and made me stretch out before & during crowning (think: ring of fire); larger baby but I tore less.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:02 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]by "stretch out" do you mean perineal massage?
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes, but she also made me hold some poses, if you catch my drift. It wasn't fun. But it seemed to work.
[ Reply | Options ]09.09.09, 03:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
none, my baby was about 6.5 lbs. how much is your baby going to weigh roughly?
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]not sure yet. at 27 weeks they estimated 2.2 lbs, which i think is average or slightly above. First was not a large baby. Had c-section and am seriously considering VBAC with some trepidation.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
had an episiotomy because they had to use the vacuum suction. No complications other than some pain!
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had an episiotomy because I was pushing for 1.5 hours and the dr wanted to give me a boost which helped speed things along. My stitches ached for 2 weeks and felt raw but it wasn't unbearable- the hemmroids that came afterward were.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Ditto, I remember the hemms but barely recall the stitches (2nd degree tear).... was sitting on a rubber donut for a while, but I think that was for my ass. The sitz bath thing so did not help me, because just being in that seated position felt uncomfortable... i just took a lot of regular baths.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
One small tear, requiring one stitch. No complications
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i don't know what "degree" my tearing was, but it sucked. Getting stitched up hurt worse than pushing my baby out, and healing hurt a lot too. Not having been through a c-section, I felt like my healing wasn't far off healing from a c-section.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Small baby (under 5 lbs) but came out fast - had two stiches. No drugs though and it wasn't that bad afterwards.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 06:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto. very itchy afterwards, but not a lot of pain.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 07:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ditto, and had 8.5 lb baby. Itchy and vaguely irritating for a week, then slightly so for another week, and then nothing. Of course, it's now 5.5 YEARS later and I still pee a bit when I sneeze, but oh well. Yes, I kegel.
[ Reply | Options ]09.09.09, 07:24 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
There is no easy way out of this.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 07:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]huh? not looking for easy, just honesty.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]your post just sounded like a third-trimester pregnant woman who suddenly realizes that this enormous bump must get out of her somehow. I hit that hard realization all 3 three times at around 36 weeks. But seriously, there will be the possibility of problems/complications either way, so I'm not sure you'll find a "right" answer.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]thank you for your unhelpful responses ;). more helpful would be how much that little one tore you up. peace.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]she did. so did the OB. episiotomy took forever to heal. sorry, and good luck.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Hate to scare you, but even though I had a relatively quick L&D, needed 3 stitches and had major pelvic floor damage. As in, I may need corrective surgery for bladder prolapse. Not something they talk about in the Lamaze classes OR the books.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 07:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]2nd degree tear, the post- partum pain was much worse than the labor for me, even though labor was long and my epidural didnt work. dermaplast, ice and witch hazel helped a bit. healing..maybe i heal slow but it hurt for about a year every time i sat down, and sex was almost impossible. To be honest, i still tear/bleed during sex and dd is 2.5. I think the OB stitched me wrong, am looking into being re-cut and fixed. defiitely not something i had anticipated, but i guess it can happen. if it matters, dd was 8.13 lbs and i pushed for 1.45 hours. out of my 6 or so friends with kids, i had the hardest recovery issues and some had wonderfully easy experiences..it's one of those wonderful toss-of-the dice situations.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]My Dr. was stitching me forever, so I said, "how many stitches, Doc!!??" He said over 300. Still hurts after a long run, DD is 6.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 08:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
No wonder all the nurses thought I was lucky. 9cm dilated when I got to the hospital, no tearing, no episiotomy. My OB massaged the area with some oil mixture which I am convinced worked although my OB friends say it is sheer luck. My baby was full size. I do have one big hemorroid but consider myself lucky.
[ Reply | Options ]09.09.09, 04:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]They gave me an episiotomy bc my dds head was so damn big and they didn't want me to tear, well of course I tore anyway so had to be double stitched. She was 9 pounds 10 ounces and came out after only 15 minutes of pushing so I guess it makes sense. I didn't have any drugs so the pushing of course hurt but when it came time to stitch they sprayed some kind of numbing spray and I didn't feel a thing. Healing was ok, couldn't have sex for a few months but nothing too terrible. Am currently preg with #2 and just hoping her/his head is smaller!
[ Reply | Options ]09.09.09, 07:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I tore some naturally, but baby was big (for me) and so had a third degree episiotomy. Was very sore for about 10 days - could not sit. Was lying down most of the time. Sitz baths helped. No hems (thank god!) Everything healed well though.
[ Reply | Options ]09.09.09, 07:23 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Did anyone have an elective c-section? What was your recovery like? I'm leaning towar... 53 replies
- breech and though recovery was v. easy (no worse than subsequent VBAC), I also considered it major surgery and thus the decision for...it itches still 15 months later. I am defintiely doing a vbac when number two comes-...
- can't have 3 c-sections. That's why I am going vbac for number 2....
- wasn't THAT bad), but I'm now leaning more towards VBAC primarily b/c of the difference in recovery time and...
Talk : : September 04, 2009
Did anyone have an elective c-section? What was your recovery like? I'm leaning towards one since I'm currently more terrified of tearing/pelvic floor damage than I am of the potential consequences of a cesarean.
53 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.04.09, 12:34 PM [ Flag ]having had 2 c-sections - one unscheduled, one scheduled - i will tell you that people's experiences vary - some think it's the easiest thing ever and others like me think they are major surgery and would have avoided them if I could have. i hated having C-sections, but i had no choice.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had scheduled C for breech and though recovery was v. easy (no worse than subsequent VBAC), I also considered it major surgery and thus the decision for VBAC. They basically gut you like a fish, but then put everything back in and staple you up instead of eat you. There is risk of infection, the spinal dopes you up way more than an epi, etc.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Um, I wasn't gutted like a fish. I have a 3" pencil-line thin scar. It's so low even wearing a bikini you can't see it.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 02:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]the point is they take your guts out and poke around in your innards - the fish don't get any scar
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 02:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is not true - my sister-in-law is an OB. They don't take anything out anymore. You are referring to sections from the 70's. The new methods inolve a 6 inch incision, and pulling the baby out. Please do not propogate this mis-perception.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
same for me- small scar so low. And I didn't have a spinal, I had an epi. I didn't feel doped up at all except no pain.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 02:31 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Yeah, I had one in June and my scar is practically invisible. No fish gutting. Puh-leeze.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I have a nasty scar from mine. it is thicker and red and it itches still 15 months later. I am defintiely doing a vbac when number two comes-
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I have a vag for dc #1 and C-sec for dc #2 due to complications which was scheduled. Having gone through both, recovering from C was much harder. However, I didn't mind the longer hospital stay.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you are worried about pelvic floor damage then instead of just opting for a c-section, work on doing kegels - which are pelvic exercises that help a lot. I never recommend a c-section b/c I think it is far healthier to have a baby naturally, that's just my opinion though.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:42 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ita
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I was scheduled for c section due to complications but when i went in i was already in labour. they let me try, all was fine. no pelvic floor dramas - and trust me, I barely did any kegels in the lead up. Get a good epidural and you might be fine! Recovery so much quicker.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I didn't elect, but had to have one once I was in the hospital due to some complications. My baby was averaged sized (7lb, 2oz) but apparently my pelvic bone was not! After water breaking, being induced twice with Cervigard, and 30 hours passing, I had to have a C. To be honest, my recovery was the same as some friends who had vaginal, and had I known it would be that easy, I would have elected sooner!
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]me too - I was too small and db turned sunnyside -no way that head was coming out. I was so sick by the time I got the C
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Recovery varies so much for the C-section, but usually it seems that recovery from scheduled is easier. I had a scheduled c-section, and recovery was fine. Once out of the hospital I did push myself, walking every day, round the block to start with on the first day, and then increasing each day, and I had no trouble with recovery, pain, or scarring.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I was you. I told my doc early on I wanted a c-sec. I got a book at the bookstore "the essential C-section guide" and it really helped. I had a great experience bust most likely people here will discourage it. You have the right to have one!
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:51 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Why did you decide to have a c-section?
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]honestly- the thought of natural childbirth freaks me out! Sorry. I really wanted a dc but new I couldn't go through it naturally.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: did you breastfeed?
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a natural childbirth. A c-section was a scarier thought for me. I figured that women have been having natural childbirths since the beginning of time.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]and c-section since the time of Caeser (though they did just leave mommy to bleed to death then)
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yikes
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 02:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Irrvelevant fact of the day: this is not where the word comes from
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 05:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
people aslo died without antibiotics since the beginning of time ... until, what, 70 years ago?
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 05:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]What does that have to do with anything? People who need antibiotics are sick. Women in childbirth are doing something evolution has fine-tuned for hundreds of thousands of years. It is like eating and drinking, something our bodies are designed to do.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Whatever you do, please do not make this decision based on fear.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 12:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]It's really not that big of a deal (giving birth I mean).
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^vaginal delivery, I should clarify.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
My baby was huge (9lb,oz). The delivering part was ok, it was less scary than I thought it would be, (Thanks to the epidural, my husband and I joke about wanting to build a monument for the person that invented epidural!). However, the recovery was not easy. It is my only child so I can't compare but talking to my friends who have had C sections I wonder if my recovery was almost as complicated (I had 2nd degree tears, an infection etc)
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 01:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a completely elective c. My recovery was really not that bad- it was what I expected. I really took it very easy and didn't push myself. I was walking slowly around the hospital next day. I had no problems walking around, but I didn't feel like taking walks around the neighborhood until 1 wk after. The pain was like the pain after a really hard abs workout, which is to say I managed it just fine with pain meds. I would say I felt myself after about 3 weeks, which is longer than I hear some people talk about it. Again, I took it really slow though.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 02:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^also, meant to say that my reasons were similar to yours, with a few other issues I was concerned about. I am really glad I made this decision, and I know for sure I had a much better birth experience than a some of my friends who had really bad deliveries & complications or emergency c's. I would 100% make the decision again if I had it to do over. The birth experience was actually great and went so smoothly. Being in the hospital longer was probably the only annoyance. I think the hardest day was the 2nd/3rd day after the surgery, but really I am such a baby about pain and I thought it was manageable. GL!
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 02:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I think you're nuts. That's major surgery! I don't know anyone who was terribly debilitated from a vaginal delivery.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 05:22 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Anyone who hasn't had a c-section would say that. Yes, it's surgery, but this is America, and we have excellent health care.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had a vaginal delivery and always wanted too. I mentioned to all the nurses that I would only have a c-section if it was medically necessary. Then a little while later I met a woman who had a c-section and almost died b/c of the loss of blood. Luckily she is okay but from now on she will have to have a c-section and is really scared to ever get pg again.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 05:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]My friend almost died from a loss of blood during natural birth. Doctors didn't notice that she had internal bleeding.
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 05:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I abhorred the idea of writhing in pain for unspecified amount of time, and insisted on an elective c-section. Worked as a charm: no pain, walked next day, drove around in 3 days, jogged in 2 week. Would totally do it again. Not to say that it is so much safer for the baby. (I was 36 btw).
[ Reply | Options ]09.04.09, 05:41 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]why would you risk jogging in 2 weeks - that was stupid, not the elective C
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Did you completely ignore your doctor's orders? You aren't supposed to drive for 2 weeks after having a C. You aren't supposed to exercise for 6-8 weeks. You sound like a real moron.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 05:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]more like a selfish narcissist.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 06:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
it is not safer for the baby. if you look at truly elective c/s, baies have more respiratory problems than babies that are delivered vaginally. it appears that going through labor helps the lungs. also babies born by c/s are more likely to be rehospitalized, even if you control for other health problems that may have resulted in c/s.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:35 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
C-sections rock. I'm 31 and had one for my 10 pound boy back in June. Recovery was a breeze, albeit a little achey, and I'm thrilled that I don't have to deal with the emotional trauma of a vaginal delivery. All my kids will be C-sections. There is def a reason they are so popular in South America. Take it if it is offered.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]All your kids? Hoepfully your uterus is able to support more than 2 sections- some people can't have 3 c-sections. That's why I am going vbac for number 2.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:11 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]emotional trauma?
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:36 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I have never thought of medical procedures as having the ability to "rock."
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had one unplanned and then the next planned. they went smoothly and recovery got easier as the days went on, but I definitely wouldn't say they were a breeze. I don't judge if you want an elective one for your own reasons, but don't expect it to be a super easy recovery. I was in great shape both times and had a lot of pain. also infection the first time, which made everything very tough. good luck.
[ Reply | Options ]09.05.09, 04:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks to everyone for the helpful replies! I'm especially grateful to have heard from those of you who have been through a cesarean yourself. After having done a lot more research I am leaning even more towards elective c. Especially considering that my mother did have p-floor probs after my difficult delivery (I was normal sized-- 8lbs or so) that still bother her to this day. I do my kegles pretty religiously as it stands, but I don't know if that would save me from my genetically petite architecture. Also, I sustained a lower back injury in my early 20s that I would hate to have reaggravated by so called "back labor" which sounds abysmally horrifying. Now the only trick will be finding a good OB who's willing to help me with this plan. Does anyone have any recs for a provider such as that? I alredy saw my GP and she was useless on that score. I'm in Chelsea in the teens/twenties near the West Side Highway but could probably up north or down south on this side of town.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 09:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you know you can get pain meds, right? so the back labor is not necessarily abysmal?
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 09:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that having an epi or other sorts of pain meds won't necessarily prevent the actual spasms that are causing the pain but rather will just prevent you from feeling the pain they cause. I mean, it doesn't paralyze your muscles in that region, it just stops the nerve impulses carrying the "pain" message from going to the brain. I really don't mind the idea of transitory pain day of, what I'm concerned about is reinflaming my healed over disc and being incapacitated after birth for another half a year or longer. ...Also, after having drummed up the courage to finally ask my mom about what her lasting damage from birth was, peeing myself occasionally, painful intercourse and dealing with hemmrhoids as she does 30 years on.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]has a doctor suggested thsi will inflame your disc? i have a terrible back but labor did not make it worse, with or without teh pain meds. OTOH, being pregnant can harmyour back no matter how you deliver.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]heck, i have hemorrhoids now and I've never given birth vaginally. Prunes baby.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:31 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Although I was really hoping for a natural birth (birthing center, etc) with baby #1, she was breech so I ended up with a c-section. Recovery was not terrible, but it certainly wasn't easy. You'll be in the hospital for at least 3 days. You'll be flat on your back for most of it, with a urinary catheter for 1+ days, an IV for 1-2 d
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:19 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]sorry...an IV for 1-2 days, only liquids for at least day 1. You'll be able to get out of bed, i think, on day 2 (after the catheter is removed...you can try to pee yourself). Standing up and trying to walk is NOT fun on day 2+. It's pretty painful. I took the recommended meds and still had significant pain. I think I attributed the worst pain to breastfeeding right away, which makes you uterus contract back down to size rather quickly, BUT those contractions against a new surgical wound do not feel pleasant. I was instructed to stay home for a full 2 weeks...no walking around outside, no stairs, etc. All in all, by day 3 or 4, I was walking much better, pain wasn't horrible, but it was still uncomfortable and I WAS taking meds. By the end of the 2 weeks I was fine. IF you have a c-section you're going to need help at home, without a doubt, b/c your mobility will be so limited. All of this being said, i was seriously leaning towards having a 2nd c-section with #2 (b/c it really wasn't THAT bad), but I'm now leaning more towards VBAC primarily b/c of the difference in recovery time and mobility issues. The thought of vaginal/pelvic complications frightens me too and I've heard stories about serious complications, but in the end, it's how our bodies were made to deliver babies and the recovery seems like its soooo much easier. Best of luck!
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:28 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]btw - i suffered pretty significant and painful constipation after my c-section, so the vaginal = hemmorhoids thing is a silling, perhaps insignificant concern.
[ Reply | Options ]09.08.09, 10:34 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] have we discussed Mrs. Duggar 19th child on the way? 5 replies
- A friend of mine mentioned it this a.m. The funny thing is that it came up due to a discussion on whether or not I should try to vbac, because Michelle's had 13. Now there's a woman with a uterus of steel!...
Talk : : September 01, 2009
have we discussed Mrs. Duggar 19th child on the way?
5 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]09.01.09, 06:45 AM [ Flag ]A friend of mine mentioned it this a.m. The funny thing is that it came up due to a discussion on whether or not I should try to vbac, because Michelle's had 13. Now there's a woman with a uterus of steel!
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 07:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]lol....insane!...im surprised she can actually still get pregnant after all those kids.
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 07:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I've always wondered how old she is. I mean she's been doing this for about 20 yrs. now.
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 08:03 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]she is 42, and they have said they will continue having babies for as long as they are able!
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 08:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]crazy how easily she got pregnant at 42..do we know if all her pregnancies have been viable? i know she had a miscarriage in the very beginning
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 08:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] I am ttc and looking into OBs. I met with Ilana Brownstein and really liked her (fri... 11 replies
- I delivered with Robin Kalish for #2. It was a scheduled CS (didn't want to try for vbac). I had no complications, everything was easy. She's not a hand holder and I probably saw her for around 5 minutes each visit, but I didn't need my hand held. Never had to wait long to see her and almost always got a morning appointment (she only sees patients on Wed and Thurs though). C-section recovery was very easy....
Talk : : August 31, 2009
I am ttc and looking into OBs. I met with Ilana Brownstein and really liked her (friends delivered with her and loved her), but she doesn't take insurance, like many OBs. Is it worth trying to find an OB who takes insurance (Healthnet or husband's Aetna) - I've read Melissa Waterstone and Robin Kalish both do - or stick with Brownstein? Advice appreciated.
11 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]08.31.09, 07:14 AM [ Flag ]I delivered with Robin Kalish for #2. It was a scheduled CS (didn't want to try for vbac). I had no complications, everything was easy. She's not a hand holder and I probably saw her for around 5 minutes each visit, but I didn't need my hand held. Never had to wait long to see her and almost always got a morning appointment (she only sees patients on Wed and Thurs though). C-section recovery was very easy.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 07:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^ btw, unless you are particularly good at paper work or chasing down insurance companies (or have extra money to spend), I would not go out of network. Also, I'm not sure where the other OBs you mentioned delivered, but i was happy with Cornell. Only problem is that private rooms are VERY expensive ($700-$900 per night) and I couldn't justify the expense and had to stay in a double, which I hated.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 07:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I had no problem finding a OB who took my insurance and it saved such a hassle later. I paid one $200 copay and the cost of a private room and that's it.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 08:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Plenty of OBs out there who will take insurance.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 08:09 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]No advice to give here but just wanted to comment on the OB who doesn't take insurance. Ouch. Is that an East Coast thing? Here in CA I've never heard of that.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 08:17 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]It's a NYC thing.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 08:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I went to another dr in waterstone's practice. Waterstone admitted me to be induced. she's no nonsense and easy to talk to. Def go for insurance and in your network if possible.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 08:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thx for responses - I'll look into Waterstone further and try to avoid out of network.
[ Reply | Options ]08.31.09, 08:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: she delivered my 2nd as well. it was a scheduled c-section, but she was great. very straightforward, not at all pushy. i liked her and was glad i didn't go OON.
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 06:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]waterstone delivered my 2nd as well, and i also thought she was great. the practice is very efficient, you almost never have to wait for your appt.
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 07:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Illana Brownstein delivered my first baby 5yrs ago. She is Amazing!! She was the on call Dr for my dr Joan Kent who I also love. It seems that all of my Dr's do not take insurance. My insurance company reinburses right away 70 to 80 percent and I think for almost all hostipal costs etc ( not private rm). I would not trade my experience With Dr. Brownstein for the world. She is wonderful. In NYC most of the "best" dr's and practices do not take insurance. I am not sure why but I never feel rushed in asking questions and the offices are well run. If you can afford it it is worth it and only a little more money. Do the math and see if the difference in cost is worth it to you. Good luck.
[ Reply | Options ]09.01.09, 04:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] i am expecting #2 in 2 months and my doctor asked if i would like to schedule a c-sec... 1 reply
Talk : : August 25, 2009
i am expecting #2 in 2 months and my doctor asked if i would like to schedule a c-section or try a vbac. she said i am a good candidate for a vbac because i labored for over 24 hours with my daughter and was dialated 8 cm. the c-section happened because her heartbeat dropped really low - the cord was wrapped around her neck. advice please? i am worried about the risks of both options. thanks.
1 reply [ Reply | Watch | Options ]08.25.09, 06:14 AM [ Flag ]well - as you have to choose one of the options, list out the risks of each and see which one you can bear.
[ Reply | Options ]08.25.09, 06:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Anyone all set to do VBAC and then freak when you read the consent form your doctor m... 33 replies
- Sorry, would ot do VBAC either. About to have 3rd c-section. If you...the C-section consent form. Honestly, I think a VBAC is great if the reason you needed the...I know. OTOH, if the reason for the VBAC was something that is likely to happen again...believe that most women are totally safe doing VBACs, though. The risks of repeat csections are vastly...I've heard of 2 uterine ruptures from VBACs but never any repeat c section issues....
Talk : : August 19, 2009
Anyone all set to do VBAC and then freak when you read the consent form your doctor made you sign? I'm still inclined to do it, but I still have this fear at the back of my head. Please tell me your experiences. Good, bad, and ugly.
33 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]08.19.09, 05:36 AM [ Flag ]No way I would VBAC. Can't help you here. I'm scheduled for my second c/s in 10 days and I can't imagine choosing to risk my health and life and that of the baby's just so that I can have an "experience."
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: My decision is not in anyway based on the desire for an "experience". In fact, the consent form says that I must also acknowledge that a c-section is riskier for me than a Vbac. The fact is that there are risks to both and I am trying to figure out which risk is better to take. Moreoever, my Dr. who's been practicing for over 20 yrs. is encouraging the vbac as she had one herself and my reason for the c-section was based on baby's presentation, not on baby being too big.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:35 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Sorry, would ot do VBAC either. About to have 3rd c-section. If you go through the pushing and labor and then end up having a c-section anyway, the re-covery is much, much worse. It's traumatic on the body to go thru both. My second c-section was very easy because I did not experience labor first.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a crash c with #1 and scheduled a c for #2. I went into labor and #2 was a VBAC that went like a breeze. Much, much easier recovery too (even with a toddler factored in). All consent forms will freak you out....look at what they make you agree to when you set up a Facebook acct!
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OP: Lol. Point well taken.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
All consent forms are like this. Same goes for the C-section consent form. Honestly, I think a VBAC is great if the reason you needed the first C-section was something random that is unlikely to recur - like breach or stalled labor or db not doing well during labor. Recovery will be much easier according to everyone I know. OTOH, if the reason for the VBAC was something that is likely to happen again - like you have big dbs and a small pelvic opening or some medical condition or whatever - I agree that trying for a VBACC is only likely to end up in a fruitless labor followed by a C-section and that is WAY worse than a scheduled C-section. BTDT as to both.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:30 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]op: No medical reasons for the c-sections. I have spoken to two OB's at my current practice, my original OB in the city and a friend who's an OB and all say based on why I had first c-section, I'm a good candidate. Also, the issues with vbac that occurred back in the 90's were because they were doing them with inductions which increase the risk of uterine rupture due to the unnaturally strong contractions and on women who had vertical rather than horizontal incisions. I've done a lot of research because of course the last thing I want to do is put my baby at risk. at the same time if I don't NEED the surgery and can get home more quickly and run after preschool more readily, I'd prefer that.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]or: i'd go for it. my 2 friends who had VBACs (one by choice, one by circumstance) were much happier for it!
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:42 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks. I've been obsessing over this my entire pregnancy going back and forth. I've even had nightmares. What really pisses me off are the implications that I am willingly putting my child at risk when I've actually done so much research and feel like I'm going around in circles.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]putting your child at risk would be doing an at home unassisted VBAC in a rural area, a great distance from the nearest hospital.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 08:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I did a VBAC with #3. It was a great experience. The doctor was very supportive. It was the easiest birth I've had.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 06:58 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Wow -- after 2 sections! Congrats!
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:11 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]she didn't say that. usually people write VBA2C- she may have had just one section, her second birth.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: isn't it funny how people read what they want to read?
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]VBA2C? Now you are making up shit. But, yes, first was vaginal, second was c-sect, third was VBAC.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:40 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np- I have seen the VBA2C written many times-
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 08:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]OR- yes, try googling it-
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 08:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]wow. I learn something new every day. So I had a VBAVC then.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 09:21 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I am not sure you need to say that- having a vaginal birth after 2 c's is a much bigger deal than after just one, which is the reason people distinguish.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 09:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
It's not that I was reading what I wanted to, it's just that she said #3 was Vbac, so I assumed that 1 and 2 were sections. Maybe also because my dr. had mentioned that she'd done a vbac on someone after 2 sections, so I had it in my head. Anyway, wasn't trying to make this a debate just wanted experiences.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 12:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Just remember that lawyers drafted that consent form, not doctors. Don't let it scare you away from a VBAC, if your doctor is supportive. Signed, lawyer
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:48 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]my sil had two VBACs after a first c-section and had a mauch, much better expereince and recovery with her 2nd and third births. Good Luck!
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 08:15 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I did VBAC with #2. Dr did not make me sign consent form but was not in favor of it. VBAC was successful. Recovery much fast than C Section but the hemorrhoids were a bitch.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 09:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a wonderful VBAC followed by another attempted VBAC that ended w/a uterine rupture. We are both fine, but it was very scary. I do believe that most women are totally safe doing VBACs, though. The risks of repeat csections are vastly understated imo. gl.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 10:07 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]op: I am so sorry about the uterine rupture. That is SO scary, but I am glad that you and your child are okay. I appreciate your pointing out the fact that the risks of repeat c-sections are understated because I definitely found that in my research. I also found that the risk of uterine rupture simply from a first time labor with pitocin is understated. Not only that, but many repeat c-sections are scheduled before baby is ready to come out. Truth is everything turns out fine usually, but it is best for baby to stay in utero for as long as possible (i.e. 40 wks.) and many studies have shown the risk to babies and complications are greater for babies born via c-section before 40 wks.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 01:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Really? I've heard of 2 uterine ruptures from VBACs but never any repeat c section issues.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Really! Breathing issues for db, nicked bladders on the mother, infections, etc. It's all about who is putting out the information and what their preference is.
[ Reply | Options ]08.20.09, 03:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
or from just above: Thanks. You will do great, most women do. Find a doctor that you truly trust, hire a doula, and just pray that things go your way and result in a healthy baby. Good luck!
[ Reply | Options ]08.20.09, 04:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thank you!
[ Reply | Options ]08.20.09, 05:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
friend just tried VBAC but didn't go well. labored for 20hrs and had emergency C. infection in amniotic fluid, both Mom & DB sick. Baby still in NICU
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]If you've had a totally uneventful pg then I might go for the VBAC. Friends who did it were thrilled and said it was easy. But I have a friend who ruptured to disastrous consequences and I'm sure that she is asking herself every minute why she chose to do it that way. (She was actually in amazing shape and very healthy, so it was a bit of a freaky thing.) Keeping the baby inside as long as possible is a factor, but you can control that with scheduling a c, so your arguement about the timing doesn't really pan out.
[ Reply | Options ]08.19.09, 07:35 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Most docs schedule c-sections before 40 wks. because they want to get baby out before mom goes into labor naturally.
[ Reply | Options ]08.20.09, 03:57 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np Can I ask what happened to her baby?
[ Reply | Options ]08.20.09, 04:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Did you take a childbirth class? is it worth it or a waste of time? if so, any in N... 11 replies
- I told my OB I wasn't interested in writing a list of demands and she told me that women who end up very disappointed are invariably those with complicated, specific birth plans. I ended up with a c/s both times (was trying for VBAC the second time) and am fine with the way things went--I have two healthy kids....
Talk : : August 08, 2009
Did you take a childbirth class? is it worth it or a waste of time? if so, any in NYC you would recommend? Our obgyn also suggested an infant care/cpr class.
11 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]08.08.09, 04:44 AM [ Flag ]I'm a class seminar person - I took several classes. NYU offers a free seminar given by head of anesthesiology (sp?) on pain relif options during childbirth. It was GREAT! You don't have to deliver at NYU to take the class (I did't). They do it about once a month. I saw a flier, but you could call or stop by L&D floor and ask. I took a breastfeeding class (before baby was born) at StL/Roosevelt. Group class in the evening and the lady was great! I think it helped build confidence so when baby did come, we had no problems bf. Once baby was born, I organized an infant cpr class for my moms group. That was helful too. I wish I could remember her name, she was great and we each got our own baby doll to "blow" in. She also lets you take a free refresher course each year if you want. Didn't take a childbirth class - got that from books and baby story. Good luck!
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 04:53 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]you should do cpr and emergency situation class. the rest are optional - if it willl make you feel more comfortable and you have time and money to burn, go for it.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 04:55 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yes, and it was worth it. It was a long time ago as dc is 6 but it is definitely worth it if you have a good class.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 04:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I did a great but long and intense class at Realbirth. It was really worth it for DH especially and for us, as it was the first time he was really around other pregnant women and their dhs. The class was really informative. Also did CPR class at realbirth and breastfeeding, all were really good.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 05:39 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Worth it. But I tend to think that more information is almost always better.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 06:27 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Didn't take one and I felt like we were the only ones that didn't--but it wasn't a big concern, either. We also didn't have a birth plan. I figured women have been giving birth for thousands of years without getting hysterical about it or attempting to control every last minute of the process. I've seen way too many "normal" moms-to-be turn in to psycho, controlling monsters over their birth plan and freak out when something happens that wasn't on their plan. I have a friend with a 15 year old son who STILL laments about the fact that she had to have a c-section and how it wasn't what she wanted, etc. Somewhere along the way she got the impression that writing wishes down on a piece of paper could overrule nature's process and it has left her with a bitter memory.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 09:20 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]np I didn't have birth plans, either. I told my OB I wasn't interested in writing a list of demands and she told me that women who end up very disappointed are invariably those with complicated, specific birth plans. I ended up with a c/s both times (was trying for VBAC the second time) and am fine with the way things went--I have two healthy kids.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 10:07 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
if you know how to poop you can have a baby.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 11:16 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I took the class most importantly for my DH- he was so clueless about the whole experience and had no interest in reading a book- this put him in a comfortable arena with other first time dads to be- it was helpful for that reason only- most childbirth classes encourage the natural way- and assume spontaneous labor- the one thing you need to know is that 95% of the time, your birth experience will be nothing like you expected- I had pre-eclampsia and was induced at 38 weeks so the class was useless to me in hindsight.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 04:50 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]if you are a remotely nervous person, or someone who likes to plan. I would take the childbirth class. infant care is usually covered at the end of a lot of childbirth classes. it is only helpful if you have never baby sat, changed a diaper, and have never been around a baby before. (my DH needed it) infant CPR... ehh. it's up to you. i rented the DVD off of Netflix since I had done CPR training in highschool. Thankfully I have never had to use it at all.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 05:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I totally recommend hypnobirthing if you're a natural birth kind of person.
[ Reply | Options ]08.08.09, 07:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] 23 weeks and realizing that i'd really like to try (as hard as i can) for a vbac. i'm... 1 reply
- No idea if you're still checking this but check out Village Obstetrics - they deliver at St. Vincent's. They are becoming THE place to VBAC in NYC...they even delivered VBAC twins last week!...
Talk : : August 07, 2009
23 weeks and realizing that i'd really like to try (as hard as i can) for a vbac. i'm with dr. guirguis who delivers at methodist, and he seems supportive but i'm just not sure. i'd like to be with an ob. any recs? don't want to deliver too north in manhattan. how do you go about finding out a dr.'s vbac %? thanks
1 reply [ Reply | Watch | Options ]08.07.09, 07:48 PM [ Flag ]No idea if you're still checking this but check out Village Obstetrics - they deliver at St. Vincent's. They are becoming THE place to VBAC in NYC... they even delivered VBAC twins last week!
[ Reply | Options ]08.10.09, 07:16 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] I am now at 20 weeks and showing and the reality of my planned HBAC is starting to si... 79 replies
- JMHO, but i think home births, and even VBAC, are incredibly selfish. Why isn't your priority...there are no birth centers that allows a VBAC in New York. Most hospitals require constant monitoring...
- and why do birth centers not allow VBAC?...
- Friend lost her baby doing vbac, and almost died herself. Don't do it....Hi there. I had a cesarean and a VBAC, then planned a home birth for our third...
Talk : : July 27, 2009
I am now at 20 weeks and showing and the reality of my planned HBAC is starting to sink in. Anyone else planning a homebirth?
79 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]07.27.09, 12:10 PM [ Flag ]I would never try to give birth at home after a c-section. I am nervous enouhg just attempting the VBAC. The increased risk of uterine rupture really makes me want the best care of medical professionals should the worst case scenario occur-
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ita!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITTTA!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:17 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
df tried VBAC at hospital and did have a rupture - she needed an emergency c-section and it was touch and go for a couple of minutes there. seriously, you are risking your life as well as your baby's life to try this.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that's why i don't really get HBACs...of course i'd rather birth at home where i'm comfortable, but if something goes wrong i want the most robust medical facility and staff at my doctor's disposal. yes women did it for centuries, but they also died or their babies did.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]totally agree. that's an important side to the "women have been doing it for centuries" comment: often the outcomes were tragic.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]oh, stop. don't overgeneralize. i have never once seen that comment applied to hbac.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I've heard it in support of home births in general. sorry, but I have.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:44 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]yes, homebirths IN GENERAL, which is a totally different conversation from HBACs. obviously.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I respectfully disagree that it's an entirely different conversation.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]well, they are -- the fact of the matter is that many, many, MANY people who strongly support hbs are not automatically or necessarily in favor of hbacs, and you just don't see that crowd defending hbacs on the ground that "people have been doing it for centuries" because they haven't been doing hbacs for centuries.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I was agreeing with the pp's comment about "women doing it for centuries." take care.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ITA
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]ok, not sure what we're agreeing with here . . .
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 03:05 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
so i don't think home birth is generally a good idea, and i wouldn't do it. but i want to point out that deaths from childbirth didn't go up to crazy levels until women STARTED delivering in hospitals! that's when puerperal fever became rampant, and women who gave birth at home actually had much better survival rates. after people figured out that hygiene was important, maternal death rates started to fall... but it is still a difficult battle, convincing medical professionals that sterile conditions are important!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 04:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I can't imagine any nyc ob signing off on this.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:23 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]you're crazy go to a dr.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]really, the outcomes for Home Birth vs Hospital birth are the same if you look at the statistics. Uterine rupture is rare and the chances of a repeat c-section are very high.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:53 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]what are you trying to say?
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]not being snarky, but whose statistics?
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 12:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]The British medical journal, for one http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/313/7068/1309 not to mention a host of others.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:39 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]This is a study based on low-risk pregnancies, which is not OP's situation.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:58 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
JMHO, but i think home births, and even VBAC, are incredibly selfish. Why isn't your priority the safety and health of your baby? Just have the safest delivery possible!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:00 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]It is and for some silly reason, I think it is much safer not to have major surgery which has some pretty nasty side effects and safer for my baby not to be born drugged. I also think it is safer to have a birth in my home where my newborn won't be exposed to all sorts of unfamiliar bacteria. When I had my first, I had to share a room with a woman from the south bronx who had about six to ten visitors a day tromping through my room and using the bathroom. I didn't think that was very safe (germ wise).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: i didn't have major surgery and didn't have a drugged baby. so it's a home birth or a disaster?
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 02:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Here's something I always wondered about home births- Who cleans up afterwards? What happens to all that bloody mess? Do you give birth on your bed? If so, where do you after that?
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:01 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]it's usually in a rented blow-up tub.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i'm never ever renting a blow-up tub
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]lol
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 04:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
The fact that it is rented just truly skeeves me. We're worried about germs but we'll rent a home birthing tub? Can't OP at least buy the damn thing?!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 08:37 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]NP: You are that easiy "skeeved", but giving birth in a NYC hospital doesn't bother you? Do you think they gut renovate the L&D rooms between births?
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 09:11 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
If it is not in a tub, you use plastic sheets and big pads, like wee-wee pads used for pets.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:49 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
This is one of the few posts where there appears to be near-total unanimity - op shouldn't be planning this.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:03 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]well, i wouldn't go that far -- OP shouldn't be getting medical advice on UB. talk to your doctor, OP, and if you've only been seeing a midwife, get a second opinion from a doctor and then decide. we all take risks every day -- you need to get hard information and then decide how to proceed based on what's best for you. there is nothing at all wrong with homebirths, but you need to evaluate whether the possible risks of hbacs are worth it, or whether you'd rather strike a middle ground (e.g., hosp-based birthing center).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Unfortunately, there are no birth centers that allows a VBAC in New York. Most hospitals require constant monitoring and in my opinion, beeping machines, limited movement and constant interruptions, bright lights and loud noises are not very conducive to childbirth. If everything goes ok, which there is a 99.99% chance that it will, it goes ok. If there are problems, or things are not progressing in a normal manner, I can always transfer to a hospital but at least I and my baby have a fighting chance of having a medical free birth at home.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:47 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]are you a scientologist?
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:48 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]and why do birth centers not allow VBAC?
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]NP: Their malpractice insurance provides won't let them.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:54 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]or: it was kind of a rhetorical question. They won't allow it because it is a high-risk birth situation (not 99.99% chance of fine).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:20 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Actually the chance of a rupture is about 1/3000 so, that is about a 99.97% chance, I stand corrected.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]well, i have a friend who did have a rupture during a VBAC. she was glad she was in a hospital when it happened!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 04:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
you can work with your doctor to avoid those outcomes. remember that all those interventions are CHOICES and you can choose not to have them. for example, you can choose not to be laying down when on the monitor -- you can walk around. you can choose not to have pitocin. you can choose to labor for as long as you like. you can labor at home until the mw tells you you need to go to the hosp. there is a middle ground, here. having a strong doula come to the hospital helps so that that person can be your advocate and make sure the birth plan is followed.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:55 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]^^my only point is that you shouldn't be so wedded to a medical free birth that you run unnecessary risks -- find a middle ground that works (and this is coming from someone who totally embraces hwb).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:56 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: It's easy to say that these are "choices" but I felt SO unbelievably pressured to receive pitocin when I hadn't started contractions 12 hours after water broke. Thankfully I managed to hold them off and delivered with a totally healthy and drug free labor and delivery. Also, I had a doula and the first thing a doula will tell you is that they do NOT advocate for you in the hospital, it's simply not their role to speak on your behalf to medical staff. They speak with you and inform you of options. Just wanted to clarify since you said they are your "advocate".
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]need a doula with a different philosophy. the fact that these are choices is illustrated by your post -- you CAN stave them off, though it may not be easy. that's why I suggested staying at home with the mw for as long as possible.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]you don't know about doulas...they simply don't do this, at least not in NYC. Like I said, choices can be made but we must account for the fact that it can be incredibly difficult to make these choices. Not a lot of support for such choices, in the medical community or among general population.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I didn't say it was easy. what I said is that a middle ground *can* be found, and is worth finding when you're talking about vbacs. OP should interview doulas and find one that will step up in the way she needs. if she can't find ont, then she should pay a mw to go with her to the hospital (pref at a hospital where mw doesn't have privileges so that she doesn't knuckle under for her own self-preservation).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:11 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]doulas don't do this but midwives surely do. Doulas that are certified but DONA don't at least...they are not to intervene with medical staff regarding clinical matters. A good doula will follow that.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:30 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]that's the critical issue -- intervening with medical staff is different from helping their clients' birth plans be followed when that's what the client (birthing mother) is also asking for.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]you say tomato...that's intervening as far as I'm concerned. Good doulas don't "advocate." At least according to the scores of doulas I know in NYC through my job.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:36 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]well, if this is a tomato/tomahto difference, then we're saying exactly the same thing.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:40 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
NP: This is why the most important thing is to find a OB or midwife that truly supports VBAC. They can, in fact, "advocate" for you with the hospital and overrule standard procedure. And there are options in NYC (as opposed to many other places in the country where VBAC-supportive providers are few and far between and women opt for HBAC out of desperation).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:06 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]thank you.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:12 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
me too. it is miserable trying to make "choices" during delivery. wouldn't try HB, but it would be great if medical staff didn't try to force women to do things based on malpractice insurance (and not necessarily the health of woman and baby).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 04:42 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I have never wanted a homebirth due to the mess and fear of any complications, but I did want a waterbirth in the birthing center. While I labored in water with first db, I ended up laboring for 30+ hours, never made it past 4 cm and had a csection. This time, I'm going for vbac, but I'm mentally prepared for a cesection if I wind up there (unlike last time when I wasn't prepared or expecting it). While I think every mom should make their own choices with regard to childbirth, your safety and health and that of your baby should be paramount. For me home birth is too risky, even if I hadn't had a previsous csection.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:15 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'd just like to leave a comment of support for your HB. There are some incredibly skilled midwives out there and I'm assuming you're with one of them. I know it's a hard decision and I think what you need now is support. MANY women succeed with this. As you know, the further away you get from you Cesarean, the less chance of rupture. Congratulations!
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 01:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Thanks, I need all the support I can get. I didn't even get to go into labor the first time because my baby was breech, in my heart I knew that I could have had the same natural birth my mother had with me (I was breech too). I endured hours of unnecessary monitoring and tons of unnecessary hospital visits and turned down multiple attempts by my OB to schedule a c section when she was on duty it took a couple of weeks of badgering on her part before I gave in. I did find an OB who was willing to attempt a vaginal delivery (quite common in Eurone for breech births) but would have had to pay out of pocket which was something I could not afford.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:29 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]well then, I hope that you and your baby come out of your HBAC experiment healthy and alive -- but having gone through a birth with serious, unexpected complications there's no way I would make the choice you're making.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:46 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]np: the point is that many "complications" are not ones that actually require a cs. doctors and nurses make it seem like "life saving" actions need to be taken and, sometimes, even if that's true, it's because the staff has put the mother in the life-threatening situation to begin with. obviously i know nothing about your situation and don't purport to comment on it, but there's very little an experienced mw cannot handle (including breech, shoulder dystopia, 10-lb babies, cords around necks, and all kinds of other "emergencies), including knowing when she cannot handle it and the patient needs to be referred.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:52 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]in my case, it wasn't a cs. it was a severe undetected heart defect that required immediate intervention/treatment in nicu. sadly, my baby died a few weeks later but i would never have been able to forgive myself if I had never had the chance to try to save her because I tried a home birth and there wasn't a NICU there.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 02:59 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]i'm really, really sorry for your loss. people who are committed to homebirths, though, might look at that situation and say there's nothing that could be done in that situation. i'm not sure that's a vote against homebirth -- sometimes painful things happen (though i'm sorry it happened to you . . . )
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 03:08 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]or - the thing is, it's not true that nothing could be done. my db did not make it but some do with this condition. my point is that a home birth would have taken away that chance because she would not have made it to the hospital (and i would never have known if she would have made it otherwise).
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 04:33 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Your point resonates, with me at least. I am so very sorry.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 04:34 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]those who embrace homebirth don't eschew medical care in its entirety, they just prefer that what can be natural stay natural, so i think we can agree that whether you choose homebirth or hospital birth, you want what's best for your baby. sometimes there are bad outcomes, regardless of the setting, and that's an awful, painful thing.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 05:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]or - my point was that yes, there can be bad outcomes, and choosing a home birth when you know you are in a higher risk group for a bad outcome is taking what is, to me, an incomprehensible gamble. The most important goal in the birth process is walking away with a live, healthy baby. Period.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 08:21 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]You are very brave to share your experience here and I'm so sorry for what you've gone through. My heart really goes out to you.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 08:43 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]every advocate of homebirth would agree with you -- that is absolutely the goal.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 06:26 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
I'm so very sorry for your loss.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 03:26 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
i echo that sentiment. good luck to you.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 09:06 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Mmmm - I had two 10 pounders vaginally (with more stitches than you'd believe - tearing naturally, no episiotomy) and a c-section on my 3rd (cord wrapped around the baby's neck). I would never in a million years attempt a home birth. Why risk your/your baby's life for an "experience?". Maybe I'm judging but I really don't get it.
[ Reply | Options ]07.27.09, 06:24 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I think that homebirth can be a valid option for low-risk pregnancies, but you absolutely should not be having one for a high-risk pregnancy. A good midwife should turn you away.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 07:54 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Yup - I know two midwives and neither of them would attempt a homebirth in OP's circumstances - for good reason.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 08:25 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Completely recommend taking a hypnobirth class if you haven't already. I didn't have a homebirth, but having had one 'hypnobirth' I definitely feel it would have been easier if I hadn't had to transfer to the hospital. As it was, I managed 11 hours of 'labor' by myself, relaxing in bed, and it wasn't that bad. Spent 20 minutes at the hospital, 5 of which were spent giving birth. It could all have been done more easily at home. You should be at the Mothering.com forums, not UB if you're really serious about a home birth.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 08:45 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Friend lost her baby doing vbac, and almost died herself. Don't do it.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 02:04 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I'm so sorry to hear that - was it a homebirth VBAC or in the hospital? Did she have a rupture?
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 02:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
If something horrible happened, would you ever be able to forgive yourself? Personally, I couldn't take that chance. May I ask why you want to do this?
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 02:14 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]I have read this post and I think OP is crazy. I just don't get why anyone would risk this. I have heard so many horror stories even about birthing centers with things going wrong and 'professionals' making wrong decisions or no decisions at all, and then last minute hospital rushes with less than desirable outcomes that could have easily been avoided. This hoopla about 'natural' childbirth is so overblown and immature. I had my baby in a hospital and believe me, it was plenty natural.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 02:27 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]Me too. Two births in a hospital with no pitocin, no meds or epidural, no episiotomy. Labored and delivered sitting up in a birthing bed. Find an OB who will support you - mine talked me past the epidural I was asking for at the end by reminding me it would only be another hour until I could start to push and didn't I think I could hold out - I did and was glad for his support.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 03:13 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
Hi there. I had a cesarean and a VBAC, then planned a home birth for our third. Had major complication and ended up transferring to the hospital. Baby and I are both fine, but it was plenty scary. I still think home birth can be safe, but these days my advice, if you want it, leans more toward laboring at home as long as possible, with a great doula, then going to a hospital for the delivery. Hope that helps, and good luck to you.
[ Reply | Options ]07.28.09, 05:28 PM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] any hope for a recovery from my post c section 10.3 and 10.7 lbs babies? or is my sto... 8 replies
- skin, general flabbiness, did you have a flat tummy before babies? i had a 9.9 baby and while my tummy wasn't a 6pack before preg, with pilates and tons of cardio, i got it flatter than it was before baby. now preg again and going for vbac but i'm hoping the same routine will work....
Talk : : July 23, 2009
any hope for a recovery from my post c section 10.3 and 10.7 lbs babies? or is my stomach permanently shot to hell?
8 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]07.23.09, 06:37 AM [ Flag ]what's the issue? do you have excess skin, general flabbiness, did you have a flat tummy before babies? i had a 9.9 baby and while my tummy wasn't a 6pack before preg, with pilates and tons of cardio, i got it flatter than it was before baby. now preg again and going for vbac but i'm hoping the same routine will work.
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 06:43 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]twins or two different pregnancies? b/c if twins: whoa.
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 06:52 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]8 and 9 lb babies, about to have 3rd csec, and my stomach is a mess. stretch marks, weird looking belly button. rst of body skinny.
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 06:56 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]op: stretch marks, extra skin, flab hanging over my pubic area-not a lot but some--I was overweight before but did bounce back after the first--this second time though--hot mess
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 06:59 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]You need to work out and eat less. It may never get back to flat, but you can improve what you are left with.
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 07:04 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]how to loose weight quickly if you had c-section (no excercise) and you are b-feeding (can't diet)?
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 07:07 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]How many weeks ago was c-section?
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 07:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]It sounds like it's too soon for you to be worrying about what your belly looks like or losing weight. Give it some time.
[ Reply | Options ]07.23.09, 07:12 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
[+] Any recs for a good OB in Manhattan? Don't want to be at NYU (bad experience the fir... 6 replies
- the bill except she's at NYU - love her and she had no issues w/ VBAC 18 mos after db 1....
- I have oxford, hoping to go vbac this time and my doc delivers at SLR and is very supportive: Desiree Clarke. Partners...
- I had a VBAC with Dr. Josh Holden at Columbia. He is fantastic....
Talk : : July 13, 2009
Any recs for a good OB in Manhattan? Don't want to be at NYU (bad experience the first time.) Need someone who takes Oxford and ideally is open to a V-Bac. Thanks!
6 replies [ Reply | Watch | Options ]07.13.09, 07:40 AM [ Flag ]mine fits the bill except she's at NYU - love her and she had no issues w/ VBAC 18 mos after db 1.
[ Reply | Options ]07.13.09, 08:01 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Robert Haddon at Columbia Pres.
[ Reply | Options ]07.13.09, 08:18 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Maternal Fetal Medicine practice up at Mt. Sinai
[ Reply | Options ]07.13.09, 10:08 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]Dr. Robin Brown, CPW and 93rd Street with Roosevelt Hospital.
[ Reply | Options ]07.13.09, 10:10 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I have oxford, hoping to go vbac this time and my doc delivers at SLR and is very supportive: Desiree Clarke. Partners with Robin Brown, Hope Lnager and Heather Lurie at Westcare Medical, 93rd & CPW.
[ Reply | Options ]07.13.09, 10:22 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]I had a VBAC with Dr. Josh Holden at Columbia. He is fantastic.
[ Reply | Options ]07.13.09, 11:14 AM [ Flag | link to this post ]
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