Things to know when deciding which way to go.
The number of birthing people giving birth by cesarean section continues to climb in the US. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advise that 60% to 80% of women who attempt a trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) achieve a successful vaginal birth. This means that approximately 3 to 4 out of every 5 women who attempt a VBAC will achieve it!
Some of the benefits of VBAC include:
· Having a shorter recovery time from birth
· Avoiding major abdominal surgery
· Lowering the risks associated with surgery including infection, blood loss, bladder or bowel injury
· Lowering the risk of maternal mortality
Some of the risks associated with VBAC include:
· Having a long labor
· Experiencing trauma to the perineum
· Infection
· Blood Loss
· Uterine Rupture
Uterine rupture tends to be the risk that is most talked about and of most concern. Based on available studies, uterine rupture among those whose cesarean involved a low-transverse uterine scar averaged from 0.2-1.5% or about 1 in 500 individuals.
How do you know you’re a good candidate for a VBAC?
First, you must want one. There’s nothing wrong with having an elective repeat cesarean (ERC). You need to weigh the benefits and risks of both and make the decision that is best for you. If you have had no more than 2 cesarean births with low transverse incisions and have no additional uterine scars, anomalies or previous ruptures you may be a good candidate for a VBAC. The pregnancy needs to be low risk, no multiples, or other medical issues. Additionally, the previous cesarean birth should have occurred more that 18 months prior to the estimated due date.
Preparing for a VBAC
Once you’ve made the decision to pursue a VBAC make sure you have a supportive care provider. According to the CDC, the VBAC rate in 2019 was at 13.8%. Given these numbers, that might be easier said than done. The provider needs to be VBAC Progressive and not VBAC Oppressive. What does this mean and how can you know the difference?
Give North Atlanta Concierge Doulas a call and set up a consultation with our VBAC Specialist. We can discuss your options for care and other available resources to prepare you for your journey. If you desire a VBAC, allow us to support you through it, every step of the way.