Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Delivery and VBAC

IVF babyVaginal birth after cesarean delivery (VBAC) or a trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC), is possible but there are factors to consider.

What is a VBAC?

A vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is one birth option if you have had a previous c-section. Called, trial of labor after cesarean delivery, this option is for women, who would like to have a vaginal birth. The other birth option is to schedule a repeat cesarean delivery.

What are the benefits to a VBAC?

The biggest concern with having a VBAC is the possibility of rupturing the cesarean scar or the uterus itself. While rupturing the uterus in a vaginal birth after cesarean delivery is unlikely, when it happens it is dangerous to the baby and the mother. There is also the chance when you try for a VBAC that circumstances may end up requiring a cesarean delivery.

The previous c-section incision type is important for a VBAC delivery.

The type of uterine incision may determine if you are a candidate for vaginal birth after cesarean delivery. A low transverse, side to side, incision is considered the safest for attempting a VBAC. A high vertical, up and down, incision on the uterus may cause increased risk for vaginal birth after cesarean delivery and is not recommended.

The obstetricians at THC are very skilled at managing patients who desire a VBAC. It is recommended that patients who want to try a VBAC should be managed by an obstetrician in a labor and delivery unit that is equipped for vaginal births after cesarean delivery.