VBAC

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)

Giving birth through your vagina after having previously undergone a cesarean section is known as vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) (C-section). A surgical cut (incision) through your belly and then through your uterus is required for a C-section. Your baby is delivered through the incision..

How likely is it that I’ll undergo a VBAC?

The decision to undergo a VBAC is a private one. However, it should be based on medical advice. Talking with your doctor and midwife about the risks and complications is crucial. You can then decide based on the information.

Your health and the health of your unborn child will determine whether a VBAC is appropriate for you. Location and ease of access to medical care are also significant.

If you and your unborn child are both healthy and your pregnancy is going according to plan, your chances of having a successful VBAC are significantly higher.

Your doctor may advise having the baby via planned C-section if:

• You previously underwent a complicated C-section, and the same circumstances that led to it still apply.
• You’ve undergone three or more cesarians
• Your uterus has previously ruptured, and you’ve had uterine surgery in the past, perhaps to remove fibroids.
• You are carrying multiple babies (for example, twins, triplets or more)
• Having a pregnancy complication that prevents a vaginal birth is less than 18 months after your previous pregnancy. (For instance, having high blood pressure, having your baby in the breech position, or having concerns about your baby’s size or health.

What advantages does a VBAC offer?

The following are some advantages of vaginal births, including VBACs:

• A decreased chance of certain complications, like infections or blood clots.
• A shorter hospital stay and recovery period.
• A decreased possibility of complications during upcoming pregnancies.
• less abdominal pain following delivery.
• Being more physically capable of taking care of your newborn (and any additional children you may have) right after delivery.
• Babies born vaginally are less likely to experience breathing issues.
• The likelihood that you will start and continue breastfeeding your child is increased if you give birth vaginally.

What are the risks of a VBAC?

During labor, there is a very slight chance that the scars in your abdomen and uterus will tear. In only 5 to 7 out of every 1000 VBACs, there is a very small risk. But this is the main factor that causes medical professionals to carefully watch the labor during a VBAC.

Serious issues for both you and your unborn child could arise from the scar rupturing. A hysterectomy, or removal of the uterus, may be necessary in extremely uncommon circumstances where there is severe bleeding.

There is a possibility that you will require an emergency C-section while in labor. Compared to a planned caesarean, there are higher risks of bleeding and infection with this.