If you delivered through a C-section in your previous pregnancy, you may have an option of a repeat c section or a vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC). VBAC is possible in many situations today unlike years ago, due to changes in  surgical techniques. However, it should be noted that VBAC is not for everyone. A pregnancy complication or an underlying medical condition may make it impossible for a vaginal birth after cesarean.

Who is a good candidate for VBAC ?

You  may have the option of a VBAC if you meet all the following criteria.

• you’ve  had  only one  cesarean incision that was a low-transverse uterine incision (horizontal incision)
• you have no uterine abnormalities, scars or rapture
• baby is normal size
• baby is not breech
• you have no serious medical problems
• the reason for your previous c section is not a factor
• labor begins naturally on or before your due date
• if the physician available can monitor labor as well as perform an emergency cesarean if need be
• if birth location  have personnel available on weekends and evenings in case a cesarean is necessary

 
A VBAC is less likely to be successful if

• you are overweight
• you are an older woman
• baby is unusually large
• you are past your due date
• you are expecting multiples
• you have an underlying medical conditions  such as diabetes and high blood pressure
• you’ve had to or more cesarean deliveries and no vaginal deliveries

What are the benefits of a  VBAC ?

Vaginal delivery after cesarean have the following benefits

• avoids a major abdominal surgery
• shortens postpartum recovery
• reduces a woman’s risk of infection
• reduces a woman’s risk of hemorrhage
• it helps a woman avoid future risks of multiple c section such as placental problems, hysterectomy, bladder and bowel injury, blood transfusion and infections.

What are the risk associated with a VBAC ?

The main concern for a VBAC is uterine rapture. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ,the risk is  between 0.7% and 0.9%. Even though this number is low, a uterine rapture is a medical emergency and may cause injuries to both mother and baby.

Other risks associated with vaginal delivery after cesarean include the following

• failure of labor to progress
• increased risk of surgical complications such as excessive bleeding  or uterine infection if you have an unplanned c section after labor has already started
• pelvic floor problems such as temporary urinary incontinence

 
NOTE
 
During a VBAC, you will be closely monitored for any signs of fetal distress. You will not be allowed to eat anything during labor, just in case you need an emergency c section.

 
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