Preparing for a Successful VBAC: What You Need to Know
The Traverse City Doula and Birth Photographer
If you’ve had a previous cesarean and are considering a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), preparation is key. VBAC can be a safe and empowering option for many women, but it’s important to research, plan, and build a strong support system to increase your chances of success. Here’s how you can prepare for a VBAC with confidence:
1. Research the Benefits and Risks of VBAC
Understanding the potential benefits and risks of VBAC versus a repeat C-section will help you make an informed decision. Some benefits of VBAC include a shorter recovery time, lower risk of surgical complications, and a greater chance of vaginal birth in future pregnancies. However, there are also risks, such as uterine rupture, though the likelihood is low in most cases. Speak with your provider about your individual circumstances to assess your eligibility.
2. Research Your Labor Options
Knowing your options for labor and delivery can help you feel more prepared and in control. Some key considerations include:
Pain relief options: Can you have an epidural? What about nitrous oxide or other comfort measures?
Interventions: Ask about the use of continuous fetal monitoring, induction methods, and how long you may be "allowed" to labor.
Emergency protocols: What happens if a C-section becomes necessary?
3. Find a Provider Who Supports VBAC
Not all doctors or midwives are truly supportive of VBAC. Some may say they allow VBACs but have restrictive policies that make it difficult. Look for a provider who has a strong track record of successful VBACs, trusts the natural birth process, and will support you in making informed choices.
4. Ask the Hospital About Their VBAC Policies
Hospital policies vary widely when it comes to VBAC. Some hospitals have strict rules that may not align with your birth plan. Call your chosen hospital ahead of time and ask:
Do they allow VBACs?
What are their monitoring and intervention policies?
Is there a provider on staff 24/7 in case of emergency?
If your hospital has restrictive VBAC policies, you may want to explore other hospitals or birthing centers with higher VBAC success rates.
5. Consider Hiring a Doula
A doula can be an incredible asset when preparing for a VBAC. They provide emotional support, help you navigate hospital policies, and advocate for your birth preferences. Studies show that having a doula can increase your chances of a successful vaginal birth. A doula can also assist with pain management techniques and help you stay calm and confident throughout labor.
6. Trust That Babies Come When They’re Ready
One of the biggest challenges in planning a VBAC is managing expectations around spontaneous labor. Many VBAC-friendly providers prefer that labor starts on its own rather than inducing, as induction can increase risks. If your baby doesn’t arrive by your due date, don’t be too hard on yourself. Every baby and every birth is different.
7. Be Kind to Yourself
Planning for a VBAC takes courage, and it’s a beautiful goal. Learning your options, preparing your body, and building a support team are all powerful steps. But sometimes, even with all the preparation in the world, birth takes a different turn.
If a repeat C-section becomes necessary, that doesn’t take away from the work you did or the strength you brought to the process. It doesn’t mean you failed, and it doesn’t mean your choices didn’t matter.
You still labored. You still made hard decisions. You still did what was best in the moment to bring your baby into the world safely.
Birth is about more than the way it unfolds. It’s about showing up with love, with intention, and with the courage to move through the unknown. That’s something to be proud of, every single time.
Preparing for a VBAC involves research, planning, and finding the right team to support you. By educating yourself on your options, choosing a supportive provider, and building a strong birth plan, you can go into your VBAC feeling empowered and prepared.
