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Vaginal Birth After C Section

Childbirth is a monumental event, and for women who have previously undergone a cesarean section (C-section), the choice to attempt a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) can feel daunting. At Anandi Hospital, we are committed to providing personalised, expert care to ensure a safe and informed delivery experience. Our experienced obstetricians and healthcare professionals work with you to assess whether VBAC in pregnancy is the right choice for you.
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What Is VBAC Delivery?

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) refers to delivering a baby vaginally after having a previous C-section for a prior pregnancy. Many women wish to attempt VBAC delivery due to its numerous potential benefits, including a shorter recovery time, fewer surgical complications, and the ability to avoid the risks associated with repeat cesarean sections. However, VBAC delivery comes with specific risks and benefits that must be carefully weighed.

Benefits of Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)

Opting for a vaginal delivery after C section can have several benefits, including:

Shorter Recovery Time

VBAC typically allows for a faster recovery than a repeat C-section. Women who deliver vaginally after a previous C-section generally experience less postoperative pain and can return to their daily activities more quickly.

Lower Risk of Surgical Complications

VBAC can help avoid the risks associated with repeat cesarean deliveries, such as infection, heavy blood loss, and organ injury. Vaginal births usually result in fewer complications compared to surgical births.

Reduced Risk of Future Health Complications

Women who have multiple C-sections may face increased risks of complications in future pregnancies, such as placenta accreta or uterine rupture. Choosing VBAC may help lower these risks in subsequent pregnancies.

Risks of Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)

While VBAC has its advantages, it is essential to consider the risks associated with this type of delivery:

Uterine Rupture

The most significant risk of VBAC delivery is uterine rupture, where the scar from the previous C-section opens during labour. This can be dangerous for both mother and baby and may require immediate surgery.

Fetal Distress

In some cases, the baby may show signs of distress during a VBAC delivery, requiring urgent medical intervention, such as a C-section.

Extended Labour

VBAC in pregnancy can result in longer labour, particularly if the cervix does not dilate properly or if there are complications with the baby's position.

Are You a Candidate for VBAC?

Recognising early warning signs of pregnancy is essential for the health of both the mother and baby. By addressing these signs promptly, you reduce the risk of complications such as miscarriage, preterm labour, and preeclampsia. Here’s why it’s important:Not all women who have had a C-section are eligible for a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC). Several factors influence whether VBAC is a safe option:

Type of Uterine Incision

If the previous C-section was performed with a low-transverse incision, which is the most common type of incision, the chances of successful VBAC delivery are higher. A vertical incision on the uterus may increase the risk of uterine rupture, making VBAC less safe.

Reason for Previous C-section

The reason for the previous C-section plays a crucial role in determining eligibility. If the previous C-section was performed due to non-recurrent issues (e.g., breech presentation, fetal distress), you may be a good candidate for VBAC. However, if the C-section was due to issues like cephalopelvic disproportion (when the baby is too large), a repeat cesarean may be advised.

Pregnancy Complications

Women with pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, or multiple gestations (twins) may not be good candidates for VBAC due to the increased risks.

How Is VBAC Monitored During Labour?

Women attempting VBAC delivery are closely monitored during labour to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Monitoring includes:
  • Continuous fetal monitoring to detect any signs of fetal distress.
  • Close observation of uterine contractions to ensure the scar on the uterus remains intact and that the labour process is progressing safely.
  • Immediate access to surgical intervention in case of complications, such as uterine rupture or fetal distress, which may require an emergency C-section.
At Anandi Hospital, we are equipped with advanced medical technology to ensure continuous monitoring, real-time decision-making, and access to a team of specialists to handle any complications swiftly.

What Are the Success Rates of VBAC?

The success rate of VBAC delivery depends on various factors, including:
  • Maternal age: Younger women generally have higher success rates.
  • Previous vaginal deliveries: Women who have had prior vaginal births may have a higher likelihood of success.
  • Health and pregnancy status: A low-risk pregnancy with no complications tends to result in higher success rates.
Research suggests that the success rate of VBAC for women with a low-risk pregnancy is about 60-80%, making it a viable option for many women.

Book a Consultation for VBAC at Anandi Hospital

If you are considering VBAC for your next delivery, we invite you to consult with our experts at Anandi Hospital. Our team will help you understand your options, assess your eligibility for VBAC, and develop a birth plan that aligns with your needs.
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FAQs

What is VBAC delivery?
VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. It refers to delivering a baby vaginally after previously having a C-section. Many women choose VBAC for its benefits, including a faster recovery, lower risk of surgical complications, and fewer scars compared to repeated cesarean deliveries.
While VBAC can be a safe option for many women, it comes with some risks. The main risk is uterine rupture, where the scar from the previous C-section may tear. Other risks include fetal distress, longer labour, and the possibility of requiring a C-section if complications arise.
To increase the chances of a successful VBAC, it’s essential to have a low-risk pregnancy, avoid complications, and ensure the previous C-section was performed with a low transverse incision. A healthy lifestyle, regular prenatal visits, and close monitoring during labour also play crucial roles in success.
Yes, if your previous C-section was due to a breech baby, you may be eligible for VBAC. VBAC success is often more likely in cases where the prior C-section was for non-recurrent issues, such as breech presentation, and not related to pelvic issues or other complications.
Most healthcare providers recommend waiting at least 18 months after a C-section before attempting a VBAC. This period allows the uterus and scar tissue to heal properly, which reduces the risk of uterine rupture and other complications during delivery.