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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.

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