Are you pursuing a VBAC on the seacoast of NH or southern Maine?
I understand the complex emotions involved in healing from a Cesarean and hoping for a different experience this time.
I also offer one-on-one consultations, either in person or via Skype, for families hoping for a VBAC. I can help you sift through your options, give you ideas about how to interview providers, and share information about what you can do to improve your chances of having a vaginal birth.
Birth after Cesarean Workshop: Knowledge, skills and support to help you take control of your birth.
Once a cesarean, always a cesarean? It’s not that simple. Join us to learn about your options for birth after you have had a cesarean.
Individual VBAC Consultations
Tell me about your personal situation and I’ll work with you to move towards your VBAC birth goals.
I had only known Taylor for a few months but knowing that she had personally experienced both a Cesarean and a VBAC, it was like she was my oldest friend that I could completely be truthful with about not only my birth wishes, but my fears as well. Her emotional support during my pregnancy was invaluable. – Erin
The most recent data has the national cesarean rate at 32.0% (2015).
It’s important to know the Cesarean rate of your provider and the Cesarean rate of the location at which you plan to have your baby. The lower the Cesarean rate, the better your chances are of having a vaginal birth. I highly recommend you ask about VBAC rates when interviewing potential care providers.
The most recent data lists the following Cesarean rates for hospitals in the seacoast region of NH:
Wentworth-Douglass Hospital: 20.8%
Exeter Hospital: 25.3%
Portsmouth Regional Hospital: 29.7%
The Leapfrog Group has a helpful tool for comparing maternity care at your local hospitals.
Data for VBAC rates in NH was unavailable.
Online Resources
Cesarean Rates – find cesarean rates for hospitals in your area
Cesarean rates at NH hospitals – PDF about NH cesarean rates
Cesarean rates at Maine hospitals – list of cesarean rates at Maine hospitals
VBAC Rates – find VBAC rates for hospitals in your area
ICAN International – The International Cesarean Awareness Network, Inc. (ICAN) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC).
Find a local ICAN chapter – Local chapters have monthly meetings for women seeking support in recovering from a Cesarean and/or pursuing a VBAC. I am the leader of our local chapter. See below for more information.
Risks of repeat Cesarean vs. VBAC – Scroll to the 2nd page for an infographic to help you make an informed choice
Childbirth Connection – Important information and downloads about Cesarean Section
VBAC Facts – “Pregnant after a Cesarean? Don’t freak. Know the facts.”
Birth Without Fear – Real stories about VBACs.
Print Resources
I own both of these books and lend them out to my clients free of charge.
ICAN of the Seacoast
ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve maternal-child healthy by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). Monthly meetings are a perfect place to share stories, seek support, build community, and find answers to questions about local options. Follow ICAN of the Seacoast on Facebook here to get current meeting information and join the closed group for discussion here. You can contact ICAN of the Seacoast at seacoast.nh@ican-online.org.
