If you have had a child delivered via C-section, you might be able to opt for a vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) for your subsequent pregnancy.

If your pregnancy is healthy and the incision in your last C-section was low transverse, you may be a suitable candidate for a VBAC. Talk to your doctor to know if this is something you can opt for.

Can I have a VBAC?

You might be a suitable candidate for a VBAC if you are:

• Pregnant with one baby, have a history of one or two prior low transverse C-sections and have no problems that would prevent a VBAC
• Pregnant with one baby, have a history of one prior C-section with an unknown type of uterine incision and have no problems that would prevent a VBAC
• Pregnant with twins, have a history of one prior low transverse C-section and are otherwise a candidate for a twin vaginal delivery
  
  

Problems that would prevent a VBAC include:

• A prior high vertical uterine incision
• An unknown type of prior uterine incision, which is suspected to be a high vertical incision
• A prior uterine rupture
• Certain types of prior uterine surgery, such as fibroid removal
• Any health conditions that would prevent vaginal delivery
  
  

Women who have had a prior vaginal delivery have the greatest chance of having a successful VBAC.

What are the benefits of having a VBAC?

Benefits of having a VBAC include:

• Lower risk of complications in future pregnancies. With VBAC, there are lower risk of complications associated with multiple C-sections, such as placenta previa, for subsequent pregnancies.
• Lower risk of surgical complications. There is a lower risk of excessive bleeding, infection and blood clotting in the deep veins with a successful VBAC. Additionally, VBAC might also decrease the risk of surgical removal of the uterus and injury to organs, such as the bladder or bowel.
• Shorter recovery time. After a VBAC, you will need a shorter hospital stay compared with after a repeat C-section. You will also be able to resume your daily activities sooner.
  
  

What are the risks of having a VBAC

There are several complications that are associated with a failed trial of labour after a C-section, including, rarely a uterine rupture.

An emergency C-section will be needed if a scar on your uterus from a previous C-section tears open during a trial of labour.

Treatment of complications that arise may involve surgical removal of the uterus. If this happens, pregnancy will not be possible again.


Reference: Mt Elizabeth Hospital