If you have given birth through a cesarean, you’re among more than 1.7 million families in 2019 to have done so according to the CDC. 32% of babies come into the world by a “belly birth” as some like to call the procedure. At one time, it was considered protocol for a mother who has had a previous c-section to give birth by cesarean with each subsequent pregnancy. In more recent years, however, the concept of a VBAC or Vaginal Birth After Cesarean is more of the norm. Unless a repeat c-section is medically indicated many mothers are candidates for a VBAC. It is understood that a repeat c-section can actually have higher risks than planning for a VBAC.
Upwards of 90% of woman who’ve had a previous cesarean are eligible for a VBAC or TOLAC which stands for, Trial of Labor After Cesarean. These terms both mean you and your provider have agreed to labor and birth vaginally, with the caveat that there no other indication that a repeat cesarean is needed.
There’s various reasons a person may choose to have a VBAC to include: wanting to experience vaginal birth, understanding the risks with a repeat surgery, desiring shorter healing journey, less medical interventions, or the added benefits for baby going through the vaginal canal, among others.
If you desire to have a VBAC, speak with your provider about your options and think about the following suggestions:
Find a VBAC supportive provider
Some providers place strict guidelines on a mama who’s desiring to have a VBAC; such as you have to go into labor by your due date or 41 weeks or you will be induced. The provider may also place guidelines on the induction process as well, like we will only induce with Pitocin, and not a foley balloon. This type of provider is called a VBAC tolerant provider, not VBAC supportive. There is a big difference. If you would like a more thorough explanation, check out my reel here.
Make sure your support team is on board
It’s imperative the people you choose to be present with you while you’re in labor are in full support of your wishes. They can tell you positive affirmations or words of encouragement while you are working through labor. This can truly make or break your VBAC. Most women need a constant reminder towards the end of labor that they can and are laboring their baby down.
If it’s in your means, hire a birth doula
Doulas are worth their weight in gold! And I’m not just saying that because I am a doula. The emotional and physical support my doula offered during back labor, was invaluable. The support she offered when we had to make medical decisions was so helpful, and made the decision making process smoother. Doulas reduce the cesarean rate, make sure your are staying hydrated, shorten the length of your labor, among many other benefits. For more information about the benefits of a doula being present for your birth, check out this article from Evidence Based Birth.
Prepare your body and mind
Listen to positive VBAC birth stories, watch videos, read VBAC success stories. Your mind is the biggest tool to aid in your successful VBAC. Finding affirmations that speak to you will help when labor becomes challenging. Remember, you and your baby are able to accomplish this! You are made to do this!
Christina Lundy is a certified birth & postpartum doula, childbirth educator, doula trainer, and agency owner. She’s located in East Atlanta and serves all of Metro Atlanta. She has 5 kiddos, whom she loves dearly. When she isn’t busy with a client or newer doula, you can find her outside in her garden, painting, or reading. Check out her instagram here.
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