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Expert Q&A
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| By Sandra Grenier Prenatal Fitness Instructor | ||
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I had an emergency C-section with my first baby 15 months ago. I just found out I am pregnant again and would like to attempt a Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC). Since I hadn't yet gotten into great shape after the first pregnancy, what exercises can I do to strengthen or ready myself to have a VBAC?
I have not seen any special protocol for fitness routines for VBACs. The abdominal muscles can be strengthened with typical pregnancy abdominal exercises. I believe the best thing you can do to prepare for a VBAC is improve your cardiovascular fitness (stamina), strength in the abdominals, legs and pelvic floor. Basically, what any woman would do to prepare for labor regardless of how the first one went. Any low-impact form of aerobics with mild to moderate strength training and stretching will help you to improve your stamina. If you cannot find a class for pregnant moms and choose to do your own, don't forget to add your kegels to the routine.
Having the stamina to endure a longer labor plays an important role in reducing C-sections. Many of my clients tell me that their OB told them, if you had not been in such great shape (stamina/body awareness/strength), I would have had to do a C-section.
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