Birthing Normally After a Cesarean or Two

by Hélène Vadeboncoeur, Emmanuel Bujold, Nina Klose (Foreword by)

This book is for any woman considering a vaginal birth after one or more previous cesareans. What are the risks? What are the advantages? What is the best choice in your particular case? The author, H l ne Vadeboncoeur, takes you through the research and also gives you a glimpse into other women's experiences through the use of first-hand accounts. It was, in fact, the author's experience of two very different births (one a cesarean, the next a VBAC) that inspired her to get a PhD. In her thesis she explored how women experience giving birth in hospital. H l ne wanted to consider questions about birth because this is such an important event in women's lives. For over 10 years since then, she has divided her time between teaching and participating in research projects. (She is currently on the Board of the International MotherBaby Childbirth Organization.) She also regularly gives talks at conferences around the world. This means that you not only get the benefit of advice from a woman who's been through both a cesarean and a VBAC, you also get taken through the most up-to-date research. Serious information is presented in an upbeat, readable style. Comment from an obstetrician: "As a professional who is concerned about the risk in the cesarean rate I would like to suggest that all women who have anything to do with cesareans read this book. The author has collected research data and precious accounts, which will help women make an informed choice as to how to give birth to their babies." Feedback from a midwife: "H l ne Vadeboncoeur offers women an important tool to support them if they choose to give birth vaginally after a previous cesarean." Comment from a VBAC mom: "This book can help you heal the inner scars that every cesarean leaves behind. It'll also help you prepare and inform yourself to make a different journey with your next birth."

Genres: Nonfiction

334 pages, Paperback

First published April 7, 2011

Reviews

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing book. A must read for everyone who is planning on having a VBAC - that is, who wants to try to avoid a repeat c-section for the next birth. It is challenging the widespread opinion "once a cesarean, always a cesarean" and "cesarean is always a safer decision"...
This book gives a very detailed insight into all aspects of a VBAC starting with a little bit of statistics, exploring ob-gyn conferences and the consensus in medical sphere - on c-sections, risks and contraindications... followed by a discussion of physical and emotional impacts of a c-section, dealing with your previous c-section - was it necessary or not? It explains why is a VBAC always a better choice than a repeat cesarean (unless there are no absolute contraindications).
Most important is the second part of the book - how to prepare for your VBAC - emphasizing that the most important thing is our emotional setup and emotional support from people around us. The book includes numerous birth stories of women who (mostly) succeeded with their VBAC. It is not of the esoteric hypno-birth kind of stuff, however, it does recommend to give a chance or at least inform ourselves about these techniques, because they can help.

[Valleri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is wanting to have a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). While challenging to track down to purchase or peruse, this textbook-style, medically researched book is invaluable in helping one set realistic expectations for birth (whether natural or surgical) and provides insightful statistics and studies to support its claims.

[Dorothy Vandezande · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Some of the best laid out research on VBAC that I've seen. Great statistics and evidence based recommendations alongside encouraging stories from women with a history of cesarean births. Highly recommend this book for everyone with a previous cesarean! It's worth the high price tag.

[Hélène Vadeboncoeur · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This book is a gem! It is well written, well researched and well designed.
How I wish I could have had it after my cesarean, when I was planning for a VBAC. I know
the parents in my classes will appreciate the skillful combination of research and
personal experiences. What a great resource—thank you, Hélène!”
Laurel Brant, VBAC advocate and educator, Closely Connected—
prenatal and perinatal VBAC education program

“This book can help you heal the inner scars that a cesarean may leave behind. It’ll also
help you prepare and inform yourself to make a different journey with your next birth.”
Nina Klose, VBAC mom