This is a highly charged discussion, however having had previous caesareans, as well as being six months pregnant with our third child Jaiden, it is a topic I think more and more about as time wears on.

 Alot of women who have had a previous caesarean wish to have what is known as a VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean).  Various studies have been done in regards to the safety of having a VBAC, and the data results look simple enough; it is proclaimed that it safer to go for the repeat elective caesarean.  However, I find that much of the findings are conflicting or inconsistent.

Just reporting on statistics of the overall outcomes of VBAC vs. repeat caesareans I feel is not portraying accurate data.  It matters how the labour was started, i.e. spontaneous or induced?  There are higher risks associated with an induction, even for a first time birth let alone a trial of labour after caesarean.  For more information, I would suggest reading Knitted In The Womb if you would like an informed opinion on some medical studies and outcomes.

 So how do you decide what is the safest thing for both you and your baby?  Well ultimately there is no guarantee when it comes to labour, regardless of the way it 'happens'.

You need to first talk to a trusted health care provider, and preferably someone who has real experience dealing with the ins and outs of childbirth.  Personally, I prefer to deal with a wonderful midwife that I have access to, who knows my medical history, dealt with me during my pregnancy and the infancy of my daughter... and has children herself.

Sometimes, as well educated on the risks and procedures involved with pregnancy and birth as some health care providers are, they can be closed minded to your own personal opinions or feelings (that's not everyone, but I have come across doctors like that).  If you don't feel supported or understood, perhaps you could research other doctors, nurses that would suit better.

 You need to be armed with up to date resources on what options you have to be able to choose either the caesarean or natural (vaginal) birth.

There are some written resources out there, and a book I read that touches briefly on medical interventions in labour is "Misconceptions: Truth, Lies, and the Unexpected on the Journey to Motherhood" by Naomi Wolf.  She comments sensitively but realistically about conception, pregnancy, child birth and motherhood.  I personally really enjoyed reading this book.

Research online: there are also many websites that store a wealth of knowledge concerning VBAC vs. elective caesarean.  A few articles will give you both sides this 'labour debate', but usually will lean towards either natural birth or caesarean.  One artice I myself enjoyed was "Is Vaginal Birth After Caesarean Risky?". 

There are also some support groups for VBAC, including:

Birthrites, Australia

Caesarean Birth & VBAC, Great Britain

I-CAN-ONLINE

 In conclusion, you really need to weigh up the risks and find support for your decision, whatever it is.  Your child and your body.  Stay calm, be informed about what options are available at your local hospital, birthing centre etc.

This new life is coming into the world, and I am sure you would love to only do what's best for you and your infant.  VBAC is one of the options you have, elective Caesarean is another... please get all the information you can and you can be confident you've tried to make a well informed choice.  Once you have decided to have either a VBAC or caesarean, surround yourself with those that support you and your unborn child.  All the best in your birthing journey!