4. CHOOSE WISELY: You are in charge! You get to choose your provider and support team. Research, ask around and find a VBAC friendly provider for you. Make sure you ask what their VBAC success rate is. Actions speak louder than words! They can say they’re supportive, but their previous experience will give you the confidence you need. With their support and knowledge, an unnecessary cesarean can be avoided!
5. HIRE A DOULA: “The doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother who is expecting, is experiencing labor, or has recently given birth. Their purpose is to help women have a safe, memorable, and empowering birthing experience.” (https://americanpregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/having-a-doula/) Having a doula is a must! They know how to support you, they know how to help your partner feel involved and understand how to comfort you, they know your feelings and what choices you have made and can help you stand by those choices.
6. POSITIVE VIBES: Surround yourself with positivity! Read VBAC stories, practice positive affirmations (http://balancedbirthsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Birth-Affirmations.pdf), and surround yourself with people who believe in you! Find support groups like ICAN or VBAC Facebook groups like The VBAC Link. And don’t forget that you are a rockstar goddess who can do ANYTHING!