There used to be a thought that once a person had a c-section, they would always have a c-section for subsequent births. This may be a more culturally based thought than an evidence based one. Having a vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is called a VBAC. After you have had one cesarean, should you opt to schedule another for your subsequent birth or should you find a provider who is comfortable with providing care for and supporting you in your plans for a VBAC?
According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), benefits to having a VBAC include; not having an abdominal surgery, shorter recovery period, lower risk of infection, and less blood loss. ACOG also states that VBAC is associated with decreased maternal morbidity. “Successful VBAC is generally associated with shorter maternal hospitalizations, fewer infections, less blood loss, fewer transfusions, and fewer thromboembolic events than cesarean delivery”. Some risks to VBAC include infection, blood loss, and other complications such as uterine rupture which is rare and very serious. Risks associated with multiple c-sections include bowel or bladder injury, and problems with the placenta in future pregnancies. One of the concerns, placenta accreta, can cause severe bleeding and injury to other organs and could potentially lead to the need for a hysterectomy.
Talk to your provider, ask them to explain the benefits and the risk of each choice and ask for their recommendations based on your specific medical history and circumstances. One important consideration should be whether or not you plan to have more children in the future. Other considerations should be whether your provider is truly supportive of supporting your VBAC birth and equipped to handle potential emergencies. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits and risks associated with repeat c-sections and VBAC’s, I’ve gathered a list of resource links for you to follow below!
This podcast shares the benefits and risks of VBAC and repeat c-section and talks about how differences in cultures can impact the rates of VBACs-https://evidencebasedbirth.com/providing-unbiased-vbac-access-and-support-with-vbac-facts-founder-jen-kamel/
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/ebb-113-the-evidence-on-vbac/
International Cesarean Awareness Network https://www.ican-online.org can also direct you to a local chapter near you for resources, support, and providers in your community.
Happy Birthing,
-Stephanie
Stephanie is a labor/birth doula and childbirth educator based out of Liberty Township. She loves supporting families as they navigate their pregnancies and birth choices. Contact Stephanie if you would like to set up a free consultation or phone call to discuss your birth plans and learn how adding a doula to your birth team could enhance your birth experience.
Schedule a free consultation here!
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