I had to have a Cesarean Section with my first child due to pre-eclampsia and fetal distress. We ended up losing our first child due to other complications; however, being a nurse, I knew that delivering vaginally had less complications and risks than delivering via C-section. I was able to have a VBAC with our second child who was a healthy 8-pound, 4-ounce baby girl.

We are now expecting our third child and I am hoping again to deliver VBAC. We have an agreement between my doctor and I that if there are ANY early signs of distress or of uterine rupture to go ahead with the C-section. We live in a rural area where there is no operating room crew in house at the hospital at night; however, we have been able to do an emergency C-section as fast as 20 minutes from decision to incision in the middle of the night.

I am sorry for the couples who have had bad experiences with VBACs; however, there are successful cases. I know how hard it is to lose a child and don't wish that upon anyone. Before you decide to VBAC, research VBACs and see what your local hospital policy is on how soon an operating room crew is available in case an emergency C-section is needed. Also, one very big risk factor for uterine rupture is induction. Being an OB nurse, I've seen a lot of women who are tired of being pregnant and want to be induced. Just remember that if you're attempting a VBAC, don't be induced if it's not necessary. It only increases your risks of uterine rupture!