Let’s Talk About VBAC

More and more hospitals are restricting access to Vaginal Birth after Cesarean, forcing women who had a prior C-section and who don’t feel comfortable birthing outside of a hospital to undergo repeat abdominal surgery.

This is absolutely NOT an evidence-base practice.

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends allowing women to attempt a VBAC if they are not at high risk for complications, pointing out that a successful VBAC has fewer complications than a planned, repeat C-section. (NOTE: Unsuccessful VBACs resulting in emergency C-sections carry higher risks, which is why women at high risk for complications should not attempt them unless given clearance by a care provider.) In addition to:

• Lowering infection risk
• Reducing recovery time and discomfort
• Reducing the risks of both maternal and neonatal morbidity

The option of VBAC empowers many women to reclaim the birth process as their own. Many women find it to be emotionally rewarding, and even healing to those women who had a traumatic previous experience with birth and C-section. It is so sad to me that this method of birthing, which is acknowledged by mothers, midwives, and ACOG to be beneficial for most women is being increasingly restricted. If you feel that VBAC is right for you, don’t give up! There are still some hospitals that allow it, and plenty of birth centers as well. Do your research! Find a midwife or OB/GYN who believes in the benefits of VBAC, and find out if you are a good candidate.

For more information, check out this article.

And for proof that VBAC is evidence-based practice, regardless of what your care provider or hospital may tell you, check out the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.