The Truth About VBACs

Let the truth be told! Statistics are showing more and more that choosing to have a vaginal birth after a cesarean is not such a no no after all. Your provider will likely go over the risks of a VBAC but probably not the risks of a repeat c-section. The American College of OB/GYN’s 2019 VBAC guidelines show that the risk of maternal death during a planned VBAC is 0.0019%. The risk of maternal death from a repeat c-section is 5x higher than a VBAC at 0.0096%. Both statistics show extremely low numbers, but the argument of, “VBAC’s are terribly unsafe” just isn't true. 

Myth 1) There is a higher risk of uterine rupture.

Fact 1) After one low transverse cut (bikini), the risk of uterine rupture during a VBAC is as low as 0.5% - 1%. 

Myth 2) If you are pregnant with twins, you cannot have a VBAC.

Fact 2) The ACOG (American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) says if there are no complications with birther or babies, there is no reason why they can’t have a VBAC.

Myth 3) There are no risks with repeat c-sections.

Fact 3) VBAC’s, first time c-sections and vaginal births all have risks. As compared to a c-section, a vaginal birth has a shorter recovery time, lower chance of infection, placenta accreta (when the placenta grows too deep into the uterine wall) and hysterectomy. There can  also be a higher risk of postpartum mood disorders with a repeat c-section due to not being able to be up and about with your baby and spending extended periods of time without much movement. 

Whether you elect a repeat c-section or it has to happen spontaneously, I am here to support you always.

To read more facts about VBAC’s, follow this link.

Photo Credit: Madison Swann