C O Chigbu1, J O Enwereji, A C Ikeme. 1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria. chchigbu@yahoo.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To assess the experience of women in whom a trial of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) has failed. METHODS: Pretested self-administered questionnaires containing both open- and closed-ended questions were given to the participants while they were waiting for an antenatal check-up. The responses to the closed-ended questions were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Content analysis was used for the responses to the open-ended questions. RESULTS: The women with a history of a successful vaginal delivery reported a positive experience whereas those with no history of vaginal delivery reported a negative experience. The women found the limited options available to them the most dissatisfying aspect of attempting a VBAC. CONCLUSION: An unsuccessful trial of VBAC could have significant adverse effects on women, especially on those who have never given birth vaginally. Adequate antenatal education for women planning a trial of VBAC, postdelivery support following an unsuccessful trial of VBAC, and research aimed at expanding the options available to women as they are attempting VBAC are recommended.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the experience of women in whom a trial of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) has failed. METHODS: Pretested self-administered questionnaires containing both open- and closed-ended questions were given to the participants while they were waiting for an antenatal check-up. The responses to the closed-ended questions were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Content analysis was used for the responses to the open-ended questions. RESULTS: The women with a history of a successful vaginal delivery reported a positive experience whereas those with no history of vaginal delivery reported a negative experience. The women found the limited options available to them the most dissatisfying aspect of attempting a VBAC. CONCLUSION: An unsuccessful trial of VBAC could have significant adverse effects on women, especially on those who have never given birth vaginally. Adequate antenatal education for women planning a trial of VBAC, postdelivery support following an unsuccessful trial of VBAC, and research aimed at expanding the options available to women as they are attempting VBAC are recommended.
Authors: Richard Kalisa; Stephen Rulisa; Jos van Roosmalen; Thomas van den Akker Journal: BMC Pregnancy Childbirth Date: 2017-08-25 Impact factor: 3.007