Cesarean/ Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC)

Cesarean Sections
When it comes to cesarean sections, what's best for you and your baby may be different than what was best for your sister, best friend, or neighbor. In many cases, (like a planned, elective cesarean section) you may want to take the time to read literature and discuss options with your healthcare provider. Sometimes (though remarkably rarely), decisions to intervene with a c-section must be made very quickly.

That’s why a solid, trusting relationship with your care provider is invaluable in such a circumstance. Nurse-midwifery allows you to take an active role in making the right decisions for you and your family. Don't be afraid to shop around for a care provider with whom you feel confident. Especially when faced with a c-section, ask questions and consider all of your options.

In order to help you make the right decision, the Maternity Center Association (MCA) recently produced a new booklet with all the information you need on cesarean sections. To download a complete copy of this booklet, go to: www.maternitywise.org/mw/topics/cesarean/booklet.html.

Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC)

Is it safe to have a vaginal birth after a previous cesarean section? Three quarters of women who have had a previous c-section delivery can deliver vaginally the next time.

In order to pursue this option, you need to find out: Why did you have your c-section? Is this condition going to recur? Where was your uterine incision placed? Was there any reason to believe you did not heal well? What type of hospital facility are you going to birth in? Can emergency c-sections be done promptly? What does your healthcare provider feel comfortable with?

In 1981, vaginal births after cesareans (VBAC) were deemed safe and desirable by the National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Statement on Cesarean Section. More recent studies have continued to confirm the safety of VBACs and have helped providers predict which women can safely give birth vaginally after a cesarean section (see Childbirth Connection ’s booklet on c-section at: http://childbirthconnection.com/article.asp?ClickedLink=274&ck=10168&area=27.)

The question of VBAC safety is one that must be answered on an individual basis depending on the type of scar, the reason for the cesarean section and plans for the conduct of labor.

Take a moment to view the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) position statement on VBAC, located at:
http://www.midwife.org/siteFiles/position/VBAC_05.pdf.

Also, please read this news release from the NIH on Cesarean births.