VBAC San Antonio, TX
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Your Guide To VBAC
You gave me the perfect amount of encouragement, praise, and suggestions to keep me in the moment, in my body and in the realization that we were doing it!
-Erika, David, Lena & Cairo
VBAC stands for “Vaginal Birth After Cesarean”. It means that the mother previously delivered a baby via a cesarean section (C-section) and has chosen to deliver their next baby vaginally. While every woman should be empowered to make their own decision, there are some benefits and risks to VBAC that should be taken into consideration.
BENEFITS OF VBAC:
- Vaginal birth can lead to a shorter recovery period compared to a C-section.
- Mothers who have a VBAC often find it to be less strenuous than a C-section, and can return to their normal activities more quickly.
- VBAC avoids the surgical risks associated with C-sections, which can lead to a safer delivery for both mother and baby.
- VBAC generally poses fewer health risks to the mother compared to repeated C-sections.
- Some mothers prefer the experience of giving birth vaginally, and VBAC allows them to have that opportunity.
RISKS OF VBAC:
A VBAC delivery is not without risks, and should be discussed with your midwife and healthcare professional when considering your options.
The most common and serious risk with this type of delivery is uterine rupture, which occurs in about 1 in 1000 mothers. A uterine rupture is when the prior C-section scar on the uterus tears open during labor or pushing. This can result in severe complications for both mother and baby, and can require immediate C-section delivery.
WHO IS A GOOD CANIDATE FOR VBAC DELIVERY
A good candidate for VBAC depends on a lot of different factors, and each person’s unique experience with their previous birth should be taken into consideration. The type of uterine incision with your previous C-section delivery, and the reason for the C-section are two major factors that can impact this decision.
If you are considering VBAC, then you should first have an open and honest discussion about it with your midwife or OB/GYN. Allow a healthcare professional to review your previous birth records to ensure you are not at higher risk for complications. Everyone on your birth team is here to support you, to help you make the most informed decisions for your body and baby.
VBAC WITH A MIDWIFE
Throughout your journey, I’ll be by your side, assisting you not only in your physical preparation but also in nurturing your mental and emotional well-being. Together, we will embark on this transformative voyage, so we can welcome your baby into the world with confidence and joy.
From the earliest moments of your pregnancy to the miracle of birth, and even the postpartum period after, I will be your steadfast advocate. My commitment is to provide skilled medical care, sound advice, and a compassionate ear every step of the way. I’m honored to walk this path with you, and to help make these once in a lifetime moments truly special.
