How to Choose a VBAC doctor

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By meatloafkend
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Choose a VBAC doctor

Once a woman decides she would like a VBAC, the search for the right doctor should begin. Choosing the right doctor is almost as important to VBAC success as proper nutrition. The doctor is the individual that will have the most influence over your pregnancy second only to you. While there are quite a few doctors who are pro VBAC, there are also many who are against it. Here are some steps you can take to make sure you choose the right doctor for your VBAC.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Telephone
Paper and Pen

Step 1

Call your doctor and let him or her know you would like to set up an appointment to talk about your delivery options for future pregnancies. At this point there is no need to mention VBAC.
Step 2

Write down a list of questions for the doctor before you have your appointment. Questions to ask include: "Do you support VBAC?", "What is your VBAC success rate?", "What is your cesarean rate?" and "Do you treat VBAC women any different than other pregnant mothers?".
Step 3

Ask the doctors your questions in person. Watch for eye contact and quick answers to your success rate questions. A pro VBAC doctor would know the answers.
Step 4

Write down the answers and go through the entire process with at least 2 other doctors. You will get a feel for the true pro VBAC doctors if you have others to compare.

Tips & Warnings

Make sure you ask questions about other doctors in the practice if the physicians share an on-call schedule.
Be aware that some doctors will say they are pro VBAC, but have actions that speak otherwise

Comments

oneloved said

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on 7/10/2008 Good tips! It's good to interview midwives, too. And local doulas and independant childbirth educators are likely to know the VBAC friendly practitioners in the area, based on the experiences of their clients.