If you have had a baby via cesarean section and are pregnant again, congratulations! When considering your birthing options this time around, keep in mind that you may be able to deliver your next child vaginally, even if you have had one or two prior C-sections.
Vaginal birth after cesarean, or VBAC, isn’t an option for every pregnant woman who has had a C-section, however. Those who are able must have low transverse or horizontal scarring on the uterus.
A major benefit of VBAC is avoiding another scar on your uterus. This is especially important if you are considering a future pregnancy. The chances of problems with later pregnancies increase with the more scars on your uterus. In addition, VBAC provides opportunities for a more active role for you and your partner in your new baby’s birth.
Other VBAC benefits include:
- Decreased infection risk
- Fewer days in the hospital
- Less post-delivery pain
- Shorter home recovery
VBAC labors are considered higher risk due to the scarring from the previous procedures. As such, increased monitoring during labor takes place to ensure the best care for both you and your baby.
Depending on the reason for the initial C-section(s), 60 to 80 percent of women who have had the procedure before will have success delivering vaginally. If you had a vaginal delivery prior to your C-section, your likelihood of a successful VBAC increases threefold. Also, you are more likely to have successful VBAC if your labor starts spontaneously.
Consider all your options and ask your health care provider if you may be a VBAC candidate.
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Posted In Health Information, Pregnancy, Women's
