VBAC after C-section is possible in candidates who have had one C-section, a low-transverse incision, no health complications, or smooth labor in subsequent pregnancies.

VBAC After C-Section: Who Is a Good Candidate and How Safe Is It?

Once a C-section, always a C-section. The phrase comes from an American gynecologist, Dr. Edwin Cragin, and dates back to 1916. Women have been told that once they undergo a C-section birth, they will most likely need repeat C-sections for subsequent births.

However, modern surgical advancements at WIINS a maternity hospital in Kolhapur allow many women to opt for a VBAC (Vaginal Birth after C-section). VBAC is a reasonable delivery method for women who’ve had a single cesarean and uncomplicated future pregnancies.

Deciding Between Another C-section and a VBAC

Earlier, repeat C-sections were recommended because of a high risk of uterine rupture, a medical emergency in which the uterine scar from previous surgery tears open.

The tear in the uterine wall occurs at the previous incision site and is dangerous for the mother and the baby’s health. If a previous uterine scar ruptures, it can cause severe bleeding, potentially requiring hysterectomy and blood transfusions. That said, the risk nowadays is much lower, less than 1%, depending on your scar type.

C-section, however, gets riskier with each surgery. It raises the risk of placenta previa, injury to nearby organs, and infection. VBAC reduces these risks in future pregnancies and makes subsequent vaginal births possible. It’s especially great for women who plan on having large families.

Are You a Good Candidate for VBAC?

A gynecologist in Kolhapur will examine your pregnancy history, incision, and overall health before considering a VBAC. They may not guarantee a successful VBAC, but here’s when they might attempt a vaginal birth in your future pregnancies.

• You have a low-transverse surgical incision, i.e., a horizontal incision across the lower belly.
• You have only had one C-section
• You needed a C-section because of reasons that may not affect your future pregnancies
• You have an uncomplicated pregnancy
• You must have a gap of at least 18-24 months between two pregnancies

The surgical incision might heal, but it leaves a scar. During subsequent labor, your uterus contracts strongly. These scars must withstand the painful contractions without tearing open.

The type of incision plays a significant role here. The incision made on the thinner, lower segment can generally endure contractions well compared to the lower-vertical incision.

Classical incision, i.e., vertical incision on the upper segment of the uterus, carries the highest risk. A VBAC is not recommended if you have a previous vertical incision.

Note that the lower segment incision on your skin doesn’t necessarily mean you have a horizontal incision in the uterus. Share your medical records with your gynecologist to understand your incision type.

When is VBAC Not Recommended?

Most gynecologists do not recommend VBAC if:

• You have a T-shaped incision
• You have slow, difficult labor
• You have had multiple C-sections
• You have lung disease, heart issues, and other health concerns
• Labor doesn’t begin after 40 weeks of gestation

Not every trial for a VBAC results in a successful vaginal birth. That’s why the maternity clinic you choose matters a lot, especially if you are planning to have a VBAC. The clinic must be equipped to handle emergency C-sections if anything doesn’t go as planned during labor.