What You Need to Know About VBACs
What You Need to Know About VBACs
It was once thought that if you had a C-section, all of your following births would have to be a C-section as well, but that is not the case! Once a C-section does not always mean a C-section. There are a lot of birthing people out there that are striving for a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). If you want to learn more about VBACs, keep reading!
What is a VBAC?
VBAC stands for vaginal birth after cesarean. Sometimes, they can be referred to as TOLAC as well, which means trial of labor after a cesarean birth. The difference is that TOLAC is the planned attempt of vaginal birth after cesarean, and it officially becomes a VBAC once it is successful, or it is termed as a cesarean birth after cesarean (CBAC) if the birthing person needs a repeat C-section.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend VBAC as a safe and appropriate choice for most birthing people. In fact, not only is it a safe option for low-risk pregnancies, but studies have shown that 60 to 80 percent of birthing people who attempt a TOLAC are successful!
What are the benefits of a VBAC
A few of the major benefits of a VBAC birth are the impact on future pregnancies, lower risk of surgical complications, shorter recovery time, and the opportunity for an individualized birth plan. It is no secret that C-sections are a big decision and they come with a list of possible complications like infection and surgical injuries. Having a successful VBAC lowers your rates of excessive bleeding, infection, and blood clotting.
How can I increase my chances for a successful VBAC?
Learn about your previous C-section. It will be important to know if your C-section was from a recurring or nonrecurring issue when planning for your VBAC. A recurring issue might look like the shape of your pelvis or a chronic health issue while nonrecurring could be a transverse or breech baby position. Knowing the reason behind your C-section can help you and your care providers better understand your specific circumstance and plan and prepare accordingly.
Another way to increase your chances for a successful VBAC is to work through your fear/expectations of your previous birth and to prepare yourself specifically for this child and labor. Childbirth education classes can help you remove the fear you may have surrounding your pregnancy. Knowledge is power!
We recommend hiring a doula or bringing in another support person that can be there for you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Doulas guide you as you move through your pregnancy and birth, helping you achieve a positive birth experience, no matter what happens along the way.
Can everyone try for a VBAC?
Not everyone is a good candidate for a vaginal birth after a cesarean. A few reasons why a VBAC wouldn’t be the best option might be because of your previous incision shape, if you have had multiple C-sections, or if you have larger health complications. It is also a personal decision, and some people decide it is just not for them.
Not all hospitals and birth centers are equipped to handle VBAC, so if you are considering a VBAC, make sure to talk to your care provider to see if you would be a good candidate and if they are able to assist you with your birth desires.
Learning about your different options empowers you to make decisions that are right for you! Consider taking one of our childbirth education classes to learn more about pregnancy and birth and become equipped with the skills for making informed choices for yourself and your baby!
