What does VBAC stand for?
A VBAC is a vaginal birth after a caesarean.
I’ve been supporting a number of expectant families just recently wanting to have a VBAC after having had their first baby by caesarean and here’s what I’ve learnt along the way:
- The likelihood of a successful VBAC is high. Around 75% of woman who have previously had a caesarean go on to have a successful vaginal birth.
- It is your choice – if you’ve previously had a caesarean, you may find that it is suggested that it is better or safer to have another but if there are no healh concerns then it is your decision to do so.
- Choose your care providers wisely. If you’re determined to try and have a VBAC, choose a hospital/doctor/midwife that supports your decision.
- Make sure that you’re prepared by educating yourself and advocating for yourself at every appointment. I recommend the book ‘Birth after Caesarean’ from AIMS for this.
- Your uterus is not more likely to rupture – after having had a previous caesarean, you will be considered higher risk and told that there is an increased risk of uterine rupture. Although the risk is increased due to the scar tissue left from a caesaran, it is very rare.
Any type of birth comes with its own risks and having a caesarean carries a higher risk so if you want a VBAC you are definitely within your rights to ask for one.
For more birth advice, pop over to my website JustExhale or my Instagram page: Pregnancy Yoga & Hypnobirthing (@sallyjustexhale) • Instagram photos and videos
