How I had 2 successful VBACs

My first born was delivered by emergency c-section at 27 weeks and 2 days gestation. When we became pregnant with our second child, I desired for her to be delivered vaginally. She was conceived moments after my husband and I prayed an extremely bold and specific prayer. After 12 hours of labor, Eriadurami, which means ‘evidence of my prayer’ in Yoruba, was born by vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Glory to God!! Nine months later – we didn’t waste much time – we became pregnant with our third child, and I knew I wanted another VBAC. After 4 hours of labor and two pushes, our juicy baby boy came into this world.
I’ve detailed the 5 areas that helped me to have 2 successful VBACs, but these tips are beneficial for all expecting mamas. This is not medical advice, but I am led to help empower other mamas to have amazing childbirth experiences as well. I added links to the products and resources I personally used. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Faith

During my pregnancy, I committed myself and the providers who would come in contact with us to prayer. My answered prayers were evident as I would notice God-given signs, which reminded me that I serve an unchanging God (Hebrews 13:8). I had friends, family, and my pastors praying for me. I shared with them what I was believing God for, which helped them to pray in agreement with me.

During labor, I used music and Bible verses to keep me grounded especially when my physical strength waned. I made my playlist in the weeks prior and shared my song selections with other pregnant mamas for inspiration.

Clinical Pearl: Download your curated playlist to your phone or separate device in case of streaming interruptions in the hospital.

I purchased a promise box full of encouraging scriptures and prayers on cards. As I read them daily, I chose the ones that I wanted my husband to read to me in the hospital and packed them in my hospital bag.

2. Provider support

I discussed my specific desires with my OB/Gyn. Based on hospital policy and the fact that I was a good candidate (determined after review of my history), she was in agreement with my request for a VBAC or trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC). This will be dependent on your provider’s practice and where he/she delivers. If your provider is unable to attempt VBACs or cannot do them at the location where he/she delivers, then ask for referrals. A doula would also be able to assist with recommendations for a location to attempt a VBAC.

3. Education

I equipped myself to be better informed about the stages of labor. Demystifying areas of labor and delivery thus giving me more confidence about the process with research via podcasts, YouTube, blogs, etc, was key to understanding what my body needed to do to have a baby. Specifically, I enjoyed reading Mama Natural blogs and the book Supernatural Childbirth, and watching Her Holistic Path and Natalie Bennett‘s YouTube videos. I highly recommend that you take the tour of the facility where you will deliver. Be an active participant during the entire process. During my prenatal appointments and during L&D, I was comfortable asking questions to better understand and anticipate what was happening.

4. Physical activity

I focused on exercises that help to build my endurance. I had an advantage here because I teach yoga, which can be great low-impact cardio. Labor is generally a marathon, so conditioning is necessary. Sorry to say, this really is not the time to completely binge and eat for two, but I do I eat for two while breastfeeding. Yoga and walking were my top choices for physical activity during my pregnancies. Get your provider’s clearance before starting any new exercise. Generally, your current activity and level before pregnancy may be continued.

5. Advocacy during labor

You may be your own advocate (I was with my first VBAC), but I recommend that you have someone in the room who knows your birth plan and is there to ask questions along the way especially as events cause the course of your birth plan to change as they typically do. Your husband, partner, family member, or doula are great options. This person will be an active participant during a sacred and vulnerable time, so set criteria and use them! If you do not hire someone, take the time to create a playbook for the person who is there. I gave my husband a notebook with step-by-step tips on what to do (setting the ambiance with reading scriptures and prayers on cards, starting the playlist at low volume, use of minimal lights, setting up and turning on essential oil diffuser with lavender then adding clary sage before delivery). I even gave him talking points. I was extremely clear. I preferred not to be asked “how are you feeling?” every time I took a deep breath or grimaced. Rather, I wanted to hear how well I was doing. Ultimately, my goal was to equip him with the necessary tools to best help me, and he thanked me for giving him the opportunity to be engaged in the entire birthing process of our children.

I could say so much more, but these are the main points that helped me with my two VBACs. Let me know if you are planning for your first VBAC or if you have had one (or more) before!