Vbac

[Shy Hawk]

As some of you know, I have a 6 month old son, my first, and only so far. I had to have a C-Section with him. The reasons for this was that I had preeclamsia and they were going to induce me, but upon checking out my cervix which was "hard and high" they determined me unfavorable for the procedure. Well, the C-Section was fine, and it all went beautifully.
I am wondering though, what are the odds that I can have a natural birth for a future child. I have been told to wait at least a year to get pregnant, if not longer. Also, what things can I do to reduce the risk of C-Section, if not reduce the risk of preeclamsia.
I should note here that risk factors include a family history of high blood pressure, and the fact that I am extremely overweight. I have known a couple of people who achieved a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesearean). I'd love to make that a reality for me.

[Ceres]

pre eclampsia is preventable thru diet. its important to get enough protein and enough salt - thats right, it can be CAUSED by lack of salt. dont take my owrd for it, the book i read that discusses it indepth is: whatever pregnant woman should know: the truth about diet and drugs in pregnancy by tom and patricia brewster. this book is fairly old, but may have been updated and revised by now.

as far as VBAC, of course u can have a vbac. your c/section wasnt due to any logistical problem, it was a measure taken because of the pre ecclampsia. even when there IS a supposed logistical problem, many women find out with the next that it wasnt the case at all. the other problem, your incision site, also will be of little concern....induction causes a greater risk of uterine rupture on its own! and we all know from the previous thread how commonly THAT is used. side note: avoiding induction with pitocin drip will be extra important for you for this reason. empower yourself with knowledge and allow yourself to mourn the loss of a birth experience: read Silent Knife by nancy cohen.
Theresa