vbac: participation during birth
overview
you and your birth partner can take part more fully in a vaginal birth than you can in a caesarean delivery.
during a caesarean, the mother gets either a regional anesthetic or a general anesthetic. she can't fully take part in her baby's birth.
- some mothers feel very strongly about being able to bond with the baby right after birth. unless there is some complication, a mother can usually hold her baby within the first few minutes after a vaginal birth. after a caesarean, the mother's time with her baby may be briefly delayed as her surgery is completed. this delay can be longer if she stays in the recovery room for a time after the birth.
- when a general anesthetic is used, the mother is unconscious through her baby's birth. this most often happens during an emergency caesarean.
- if regional anesthetic is used during a caesarean, the mother stays awake. but she may not be as actively involved in the birth as during a natural birth or a birth without using medicines. if she gets sedatives, she may be groggy. or she may fall asleep or not remember much about the birth.
whether you plan a vaginal birth after caesarean (vbac) or a repeat caesarean, discuss anesthesia options with your doctor before your delivery.
if you have a routine caesarean, your birth partner can hold the baby while your medical needs are taken care of.
credits
current as of: july 10, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: july 10, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
