There’s a common misconception that once you deliver a baby via C-section, or Caesarean delivery, any future babies will also have to be delivered this way. While some mamas might choose to have a scheduled C-section again, others might have a desire to give birth vaginally.
A vaginal birth after Cesarean, known as a VBAC, is something that’s possible for many birthing people. Here’s everything you need to know about VBACs—including the benefits, risks, and when they’re possible.
What Are the Benefits of a VBAC?
Birth is an experience that is so unique to every person—and there truly can be benefits and risks to every kind of delivery. It’s no different for VBACs. Some of the benefits of attempting to have a VBAC include:
- The ability to experience a vaginal birth
- No abdominal surgery
- Lower risk of infection
- Less blood loss
- Shorter recovery time
- Less health issues linked to multiple C-sections (including bowel or bladder injury, hysterectomy, or problems with the placenta in future pregnancies)
What Are the Risks of a VBAC?
As with any birth, a VBAC doesn’t come without risks. The biggest risk for those attempting a VBAC is that the scar on the uterus from previous C-sections may rupture, or break open, during labor and delivery. Though this is rare, it’s a very serious complication that could be dangerous for both you and your baby.
Another risk of a VBAC is that they simply aren’t always successful. Attempting to have a VBAC delivery is also known as a “trial of labor after cesarean delivery,” or TOLAC. If the birth doesn’t end up happening vaginally, you’ll need to have another C-section delivery. It’s important to attempt a VBAC at a hospital that can handle an emergency C-section delivery if your vaginal birth isn’t successful.
Who Can Have a VBAC?
It’s extremely important to discuss your wishes for a VBAC with your provider, as your medical history will indicate if you’re a good candidate for a safe vaginal delivery. One of the biggest factors depends on what kind of uterine incision was used in your previous C-section.
Past uterine incisions aren’t identifiable by the scar on your skin, but your medical records should include this information. Incision types include:
- Low transverse: A side to side incision made across the lower part of the uterus. A low transverse incision has the least chance of a rupture.
- Low vertical: This is an up and down cut made in the low, thinner part of the uterus. This incision carries a higher risk of rupture than a low transverse incision.
- High vertical (or classical): This incision carries the highest risk of uterine rupture. This is an up and down cut made in the top part of the uterus.
Other factors that determine the safety of a VBAC include whether you’ve had other uterine surgeries or ruptures, how many C-sections you’ve had previously, how much time has passed between your deliveries, and any health concerns.
We know that it can be overwhelming to make big decisions about your delivery plans, mama. Your provider is the best person to help you weigh your options and give you advice for a safe and healthy delivery.