What is a VBAC?
The acronym VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After a Cesarean. A VBAC can be a safe option for women who want to deliver their baby vaginally after a previous Cesarean birth.
A Cesarean birth, also known as a C-section, occurs when a doctor makes an incision in the abdomen. Once the incision has been made and the uterus is exposed, the doctor will make a transverse incision into the uterus to remove the baby [1].
Vaginal birth is the optimal choice because the risk of infections, adhesions, excessive bleeding, injury to organs, or blood clots is significantly lower compared to a Cesarean birth.
Am I a Good Candidate?
It’s important to consult your doctor throughout your pregnancy to ensure that a VBAC is the right choice for you. Factors that indicate you could be a successful VBAC candidate are [2]:
- You’ve previously had a successful VBAC delivery
- You do not have the same condition that led to the C-section
- Your labor begins naturally, and your cervix dilates well
- You have never had a uterine rupture
- You have had no more than two low transverse C-section deliveries
- The baby is a normal size
- Your baby is head-down
If you plan on having more children after your first C-section, then a VBAC is the safest route to take to avoid future health problems for you and your baby. About 75 percent of women have a successful VBAC after their first C-section. Even if you aren’t planning to have a C-section, you should always prepare for the unexpected. At prenatal appointments, discuss your risk factors for a C-section and what you can do to lower them [1].
Dr. Hill or Nurse Practitioner Carol Holmes or Cynthia Daniels will evaluate all aspects of your health to ensure if a VBAC is right for you. Fill out our contact form today for more information:
https://www.aiwhealth.com/contact/.
References
- “C-Section (Cesarean Section).” healthline.com
https://www.healthline.com/health/c-section#procedure
- “Are You a Good Candidate for A VBAC?” miamiobgyns.com
https://www.miamiobgyns.com/blog/are-you-a-good-candidate-for-a-vbac/