VBAC refers to “Vagina Birth After Cesarean.” This term reflects the fact that as many as 80% of women who have had a cesarean section birth may be able to have a vaginal birth in a subsequent pregnancy. There are many advantages to attempting a vaginal birth:
– Fewer maternal complications, such as infection, blood loss and bowel injury
– Fewer surgery-related injuries to the baby, such as lacerations and broken bones
– Fewer risks associated with anesthesia
– Reduction in the cases of hypertension
– Quicker recovery time
The most important criteria to decide if you are a candidate for a VBAC is your own willingness to have a vaginal birth. There are a few medical factors as well:
– You should have a lower segment incision on the uterus (your physician can tell you if this is the case.)
– Whatever factor led to the first c-section must have been eliminated.
– You should have a clinically adequate pelvis; this means that your pelvic bones cannot be too close together.
– Other factors, such as multiple previous cesareans, breech presentation or multiple gestation are factors that you and your physician should consider.
