How to Prepare for and Have an Unmedicated Hospital VBAC
Are you a c-section mom who is wanting to prepare for having a VBAC?
Download my free guide to help you get started on you VBAC preparation and education journey.
Have you ever wondered if a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is right for you? Did you have fears surrounding a VBAC due to your c-section birth experience? I’ve been where you’re at and I know how big of a decision it can be.
If you’re trying to decide between VBAC and repeat cesarean or if you’re already on your VBAC journey, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we dive into the following:
What I did to prepare for my VBAC.
How I navigated changes to my original plan and pivoted to work WITH my circumstances and not against them.
The intensity of a short, and fast labor.
…and so much more!
If you’ve been wondering, “Can I really have an unmedicated, low-intervention VBAC in the hospital?”, Yes, you can. Have a listen!
If you're exploring your options for pregnancy and birth after a c-section, check out my First 3 Steps to VBAC Guide to start learning what choice may be best for you and your family.
Healing Physically and Mentally is Important
Physical healing is a vital component of recovering from a traumatic birth experience, and really any birth experience. I recognized the importance of addressing the physical aspects and sought out pelvic floor therapy as part of my healing journey. Pelvic floor therapy offers incredible benefits regardless of the birth method or whether you've had children. It helps with issues such as pelvic floor dysfunction, diastasis recti, hip and back pain, and pain during sex. By investing in physical healing, I was able to empower myself to regain strength, restore my body, and embrace a healthier and more vibrant postpartum life.
Mental healing is also an essential aspect of recovery after a traumatic birth, maybe even more so than the physical side. I prioritized my emotional well-being by going to therapy to process my birth trauma, postpartum depression, anxiety, and rage. Even though it took me 6 months to finally make this leap, it is one of the main things that truly helped me heal. Through therapy, I found support and guidance, allowing me to navigate the complex emotions I was feeling surrounding my birth and postpartum. Taking the time to address and heal from the psychological impact of a traumatic birth is crucial for reclaiming peace, joy, and a positive mindset on the journey of motherhood.
Mindset is Vital to Prepare for an Unmedicated Birth
When it comes to preparing for an unmedicated birth, mindset is undeniably the most crucial aspect. Birth is an incredibly transformative and powerful experience, and having a positive and resilient mindset can make all the difference. Your mind has the ability to influence your perception of pain, manage fear, and tap into your inner strength. By having a mindset of confidence, trust in the birthing process, and embracing relaxation techniques, you can empower yourself to navigate the challenges of childbirth determination. Remember, birth is a journey that encompasses both the physical and the mental, and by prioritizing mindset preparation, you can truly harness your own power and have an empowering and fulfilling birth experience.
The most beneficial mindset prep for me was taking a hypnobirthing class - Hypnobabies. It is a full childbirth course that focuses on mindset and hypnosis for birth. It allowed me to learn how to fully relax my mind to work WITH my body and my baby, not against them. I recommend this course to everyone that wants to have a calm and relaxed birth experience, especially unmedicated. You can find out more at thehannahgill.com/hypnobabies.
You CAN have a Low-Intervention Hospital Birth
Although it’s unfortunately not common, having a low-intervention birth in a hospital setting is entirely possible with the right knowledge and advocacy skills. By becoming educated about the birthing process, understanding your options, and knowing your rights, you can actively participate in making informed decisions that align with your desires for a low-intervention experience. Being prepared with information about alternative pain management techniques, movement during labor, and the benefits of physiological birth can help you communicate your preferences effectively to your birth team. Building a supportive birth team, including a doula or other trusted support person, can further enhance your ability to advocate for your birth goals. Remember, you have the power to create a birth environment that supports your desired birth, and by being proactive in your education and self-advocacy, you can definitely create a positive and empowering hospital birth experience.
