Kristen Stratton, The VBAC Coach, helps pregnant moms find the right provider with her list of VBAC Talking Points. Research now supports that VBAC is not only a reasonable choice for most cesarean women, but often a safer one.
Childbirth Doula, Kristen Stratton, also known as the "VBAC Coach", is helping moms-to-be prepare for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, or VBAC. The VBAC Coach website lists talking points pregnant mothers can ask their potential healthcare providers to increase VBAC success rates and reduce risks.
Expecting mothers or anyone preparing for a VBAC are invited to review the list in full on the VBAC Coach website: http://www.vbaccoach.com/what-is-a-vbac-.html
VBAC refers to a woman who achieves a vaginal birth following a birth which previously ended in a cesarean. Research now supports that VBAC is not only a reasonable choice for most cesarean women, but often a safer one. Benefits of vaginal births for women include shorter hospital stays, lower infection rates, and quicker recovery. Babies born vaginally have a lower risk of respiratory problems. Mothers may also have the opportunity to immediately bond with their baby, breastfeed right away, and have their partner involved in the delivery of the baby if they desire.
According to the VBAC Coach, creating an open and honest dialogue between a mom and her health care provider is essential- regardless of the type of birth she prefers. Stratton says "One of the single most important factors in having a successful VBAC is finding a truly supportive provider. These questions will help moms get the information they need to choose what birth is best for themselves, their baby, and their family. Mothers and their care providers should work together to discuss the benefits and risks of all birthing options.”
Some talking points listed on the VBAC Coach website include discussing the provider's VBAC success rate, asking how far past the due date they wait before discussing alternatives. And also asking their preference on laboring at home, intermittent vs continuous fetal monitoring, and the frequency of vaginal exams.
In addition to VBAC support on her website, Kristen Stratton works directly with moms as a DONA Certified Birth Doula, specializing in Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) and Gentle Cesarean Birth (Family Centered Cesarean). Kristen is the mother of three children, a military spouse, and has experienced cesarean birth firsthand. She believes that women should be informed, empowered, respected and loved whether birthing vaginally or by belly birth (cesarean).
More information about the VBAC Coach can be found at http://www.vbaccoach.com
