Choosing Between Vaginal Birth after C-Section (Vbac) or Repeat C-Section

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

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When will my healthcare provider talk to me about a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC)?

Early in your pregnancy, your healthcare provider will talk to you about the benefits and risks of a VBAC.

What may increase my chance of having a VBAC?

• You have a transverse (side to side) C-section incision in the lower part of your abdomen.
• You have not had other surgeries on your uterus.
• You have had a normal pregnancy.
• You are younger than 40 years.
• You have had more than 1 vaginal delivery.
• Your labor begins on its own without the help of medicines.
• Your birth facility has the means to monitor your labor and perform a C-section, if needed.

What may decrease my chance of having a VBAC?

• You have a high vertical (up and down) incision in your abdomen.
• Your uterus has ruptured during a previous delivery.
• You have pregnancy problems or a medical condition that makes a vaginal delivery dangerous.
• Your baby is 9 pounds or larger.
• You are past your due date.
• You have gained a higher amount of weight than recommended.
• You have had more than 1 C-section.
• Your baby is in the breech position (bottom facing down).
• Your last baby was born within the past 18 months.

What are some benefits of a VBAC?

• You will not have abdominal surgery. This means that your body may recover more quickly. You can often go home within a couple of days after delivery. You may be able to return to your daily activities sooner.
• A VBAC has fewer health risks. Infection and injury to your organs are less likely. The risk for heavy bleeding is lower. You may be able to walk around sooner. This may decrease the risk for blood clots.
• Your risk for problems in future pregnancies may be reduced. Multiple C-sections can lead to problems with your placenta, or cause scar tissue to form in your uterus. Your risk may be lower if you do not have surgery.

What are some risks of a VBAC?

VBACs do not always go as planned. You may need an emergency C-section for any of the following reasons:

• Your uterus ruptures during delivery. The scar from your previous C-section may reopen during labor. This can cause life-threatening problems for you and your baby. You may need surgery to remove your uterus (hysterectomy).
• You develop problems during labor. For example, your labor may not progress, or your baby may not get enough oxygen.

What are some benefits of a C-section?

• A past vertical C-section scar is safer. This type of scar may rupture during a VBAC.
• A medical condition during pregnancy is less dangerous. A medical condition may put you or your baby at risk for complications during a VBAC. Examples of medical conditions are diabetes and heart disease.
• You may be able to have a tubal ligation during the C-section. A tubal ligation is used to prevent future pregnancies by closing off your fallopian tubes.

What are some risks of a C-section?

• Your organs or intestines may be injured during surgery. This may cause bleeding and lead to problems with your unborn baby.
• Your incision site may get an infection. This can happen at the site or in your uterus after surgery.
• You may get a blood clot. Reduced activity after surgery may cause blood clots in your legs or lungs. This may be life-threatening.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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