Women who have had a previous child via C-section are sometimes told that this is the only delivery method available to them in subsequent pregnancies. However, there are times when women may be able to enjoy vaginal birth after cesarean section. This process is commonly known as VBAC and may be an option for women.
What is VBAC?
Vaginal birth after caesarean section, or VBAC, is the vaginal delivery of a baby in a woman who has had a previous caesarean section, also known as a C-section. After having a C-section, many women want to try for a vaginal birth with their next baby. Studies show that up to many women may qualify to deliver their baby VBAC.
What are the benefits of delivering with VBAC?
There are many advantages to delivering vaginally after a C-section. These include:
- Fewer complications: Studies have shown that the risks of complications such as bleeding, infection, and uterine rupture are lower for women who deliver vaginally after a C-section than for those who have another C-section.
- Shorter hospital stay: Women who deliver vaginally after a C-section typically have a shorter hospital stay than those who have another C-section.
- Faster recovery: Recovering from a vaginal delivery is typically faster than recovering from a cesarean section, which allows them to get back to their normal activities sooner–including spending more time with their baby and other children.
What risks associated with a VBAC delivery?
However, there are some risks associated with VBAC that you should discuss with your healthcare provider, including:
- Uterine rupture: There is a small risk (about 1%) of the scar on the uterus tearing open during labor. This could lead to serious complications for both the mother and baby.
- Infection: There is also a small risk of infection after a VBAC.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of heavy bleeding after a VBAC.
If you are considering a VBAC, be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with Dr. Craig Ranch of McKinney, TX. He can help you decide if VBAC is right for you.
Learn more about this and other delivery options for your child
Call (214) 544-6600 to request a consultation visit and initial evaluation with Dr. Craig Ranch and his team. The office is located at 7900 Henneman Way, Suite #100 and is open to new patients.