Every birth story is unique. No matter how it happens, one thing is always true: Bringing a child into the world is a profound and life-changing experience.
About 32% of all births in the United States are Cesarean sections (C-sections). And for some mothers who have had C-sections in the past, the decision of how to deliver subsequent children can be complex and deeply personal.
Does this sound familiar? Farly Sejour, MD, Natalie Gould, WHNP-BC, and our team at Solace Women’s Care are here to help. We understand that choosing how to deliver your baby isn’t a decision to be taken lightly.
If you’re interested in vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC), it could be an option — and it comes with its own set of risks and benefits. Let's explore both sides of the VBAC equation.
VBAC can offer some significant benefits for women, including:
Any surgical procedure carries inherent risks, and a C-section is no exception. With VBAC, mothers can avoid the potential complications associated with surgery, including infection, blood loss, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Because vaginal birth doesn’t involve surgery, another benefit of VBAC is the potential for a shorter recovery time compared to a repeat C-section. Vaginal deliveries generally involve less trauma to the body, making it easier for mothers to resume their normal activities sooner.
VBAC can also have positive implications for future pregnancies and deliveries. A successful vaginal delivery after a previous C-section can reduce the likelihood of complications in subsequent pregnancies. For example, the risk of uterine rupture decreases with each successive VBAC.
For many women, the desire for a VBAC holds emotional significance. The opportunity to experience childbirth vaginally can provide a sense of empowerment and fulfillment. Mothers may feel more involved in the birthing process and avoid disappointment or regret associated with a repeat C-section.
While the benefits of VBAC can be significant, it’s important to recognize risks, too. Women who have VBACs may be at increased risk of:
VBAC is generally considered safe for many women, but it isn’t right for everyone. It does carry a slightly higher risk of certain complications compared to elective repeat C-sections, including uterine infection, and issues related to prolonged labor or instrumental delivery.
Perhaps the most significant concern associated with VBAC is the risk of uterine rupture. Uterine rupture happens when the scar from a previous C-section tears open during labor.
It’s rare — happening in less than 1% of women who try for VBAC — but it can have serious consequences for both mother and baby, including hemorrhage, fetal distress, and the need for emergency surgery.
VBAC may not always be an option, and not all attempts at VBAC are successful. Factors like the size and position of your baby, maternal health conditions, and progress of labor can all influence the likelihood of a successful vaginal delivery. In cases where VBAC isn’t feasible or safe, a repeat C-section may be necessary.
Ultimately, the decision to attempt a VBAC is deeply personal. Our team at Solace Women’s Care is here to help you understand your options and weigh the risks and benefits carefully. Call our office in Conroe, Texas, at 936-441-7100 or send us a message online to learn more.
