Exploring your options for a safe VBAC

A vaginal birth after a caesarean, known as VBAC, may be a safe option for many women who have had a prior C-section.

Every pregnancy, and each woman’s preferences about how they birth, are different. If you have had a previous caesarean birth, the options for your next birth may include planning a vaginal birth or a planned repeat caesarean birth.

Most women with a single, uncomplicated caesarean can be candidates for a VBAC. There are a number of factors that increase the chance of a successful VBAC including previous successful vaginal births, a low-risk pregnancy and a normal weight range, a previous C-section with a low transverse incision, a natural onset of labour, rather than an induction, and the original reason for the C-section was a baby's position.

The reasons a woman might want to discuss this as an option are:

• Less blood loss

• No complications associated with major abdominal surgery

• Less infection

• A quicker recovery after birth

• A shorter stay in hospital

• Reduces the risk of the baby experiencing breathing difficulties after birth that require admission to the neonatal intensive care unit

• Knowing that the baby has come when ready

• Fewer complications in future pregnancies

Many women who have had a caesarean birth can safely birth vaginally in a future pregnancy. However, there are some important things to consider if you’re planning a vaginal birth after caesarean.

Dr Morrow will help you as you consider your birth after caesarean options. This will include a discussion about the potential advantages and disadvantages for you and your baby, and take into account your history, preferences, and location.

VBAC is not going to be an option for every woman, but it is an area where we have a great deal of experience, and is something that Dr Morrow is very happy to explore with you.