Vaginal Birth After C-Section (VBAC):Is it safe?

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Vaginal Birth After C-Section (VBAC):
Is it safe?

Written by: Aruna Uppuluri, MD

It was once believed that once you had a c-section, you would always have a c-section for additional pregnancies. However, for a selected population, there is an opportunity for a vaginal delivery after a c-section. The inclusion criteria are having had only one previous c-section, no history of other uterine scars, a physician immediately available throughout your labor, and the ability to perform an emergency c-section.

The success of a VBAC is approximately 60%. In my experience, many women would like the opportunity to have a vaginal delivery, however there are very serious risks to the mother and infant which should be

considered. The most significant risk is rupture of the uterus which could be life threatening to the mother and infant. If this should occur, some patients will require hysterectomy and some infants will die or will be neurologically impaired.

It is generally accepted that a SUCCESSFUL VBAC has a lower morbidity than a repeat c-section. The advantages include fewer blood transfusions, fewer infections, and shorter hospital stays. However, a failed VBAC resulting in a repeat C-section have an increased risk of infection and morbidity. Infants born by a repeat c-section after a failed VBAC also have an increased rate of infection.

The risks and benefits of VBAC vary with each individual. Should you be interested in a VBAC, please discuss with your physician early in your pregnancy.

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