Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Due to recent advancements, vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is now possible for many women. Request more information about VBAC today: call (949) 829-5500 or request an appointment online.
What is VBAC?
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) refers to the process of a woman giving birth vaginally after having delivered a previous child via a C-section. This was not always possible; the phrase “once a cesarean, always a cesarean” was often used to describe the situation that C-section mothers were in.
Now, VBAC provides those mothers with the chance to experience vaginal birth, even if a C-section was previously used. There are many reasons why a woman may want to attempt a vaginal birth after cesarean, including:
- Fewer Complications
- Reduced Recovery Time
- To Experience Vaginal Birth
- Future VBACs
How does VBAC Work?
It’s important to understand that not every woman is right for the vaginal birth after cesarean procedure. If the issue that necessitated the original C-section is still present, then a vaginal birth will not be recommended.
Other factors that negatively affect VBAC success rates include:
- Induced labor
- Particularly large baby
- Two or more C-sections performed in the past
- Post-due child
- Pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes
- Twins or triplets
If vaginal birth after cesarean is recommended, the procedure itself is very similar to traditional vaginal birth. More intense monitoring is required to ensure that labor and birth are progressing normally. Around 25% of VBAC attempts end in a C-section, so it is important to temper expectations.
Request VBAC Information Today
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) provides women with the chance to experience vaginal delivery, even if a C-section has been performed. We are affiliated with the Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center who is fully equipped to handle VBAC deliveries. Request more information about VBAC today: call (949) 829-5500 or request an appointment online.