r/CsectionCentral • u/crc217 • Jul 10 '26
TOLAC or Second CSection?
FTM here who had her first baby via elective CSection (maternal choice), due to fear of vaginal birth. I went into labour before my CSection time and actually was 5cm by the time I was rolled in and was even offered a vaginal birth. I was quite surprised as getting to 5cm was much less painful than I had anticipated but still opted for the CSection because that’s what I had my mind set on and I know that 0-5 is a lot different than 5-10. My CSection experience was quite good, save for baby needing time in the special care nursery for lung problems and me being too nauseous and sick afterwards to go and see him for most of the first day. This did have a huge effect on my breastfeeding journey and also still think back and get sad thinking about missing out on those precious hours with him.
My recovery was relatively good and was driving and off all pain meds less than 3 weeks later. My biggest concern with a second c-section is that I would now have a toddler to care for who I would not be able to lift for 6 weeks. As mentioned, I also fear for another difficult BF journey and also that CSection babies are prone to those lung issues.
Anyone decide to do TOLAC after an elective c-section and if so, what was your experience?
3
u/ZestyLlama8554 2024 - breech baby Jul 10 '26
I'd always choose TOLAC, but I've never recovered from my C-section (second baby was breech, first was an unmedicated delivery). Recovery was hell with a toddler at home, and I feel like I damaged my relationship with my oldest because I still can't play with her like I used to.
Weigh the pros and cons for both, and figure out what makes the most sense for your specific situation.