Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
A previous cesarean section doesn't automatically dictate that your subsequent delivery must follow the same route. Are you familiar with the VBAC method? The term, derived from the English acronym (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), signifies a natural delivery following a prior cesarean section.
Advantages of VBAC
- Reduced Complication Risk. Where appropriate, additional surgery is avoided, along with the risks and complications that may accompany it.
- Quicker Recovery. Women who experience a vaginal birth often have faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays than those undergoing cesarean sections.
- Natural Birth Experience. VBAC allows women to experience the natural birth process, which is a meaningful experience for many mothers.
Potential risks of VBAC
- In addition to the known complications that can occur during a standard delivery, VBAC carries some additional risks. These include:
- If labour does not progress, a new caesarean section will be required.
- (Rare) Rupture of the old uterine incision.
- It's crucial to underscore that the choice for a VBAC is always personalized and grounded in a comprehensive risk-benefit assessment. When contemplating a vaginal birth after a cesarean section, careful consideration of risks and potential complications is imperative.
Candidates for VBAC
We conduct a meticulous evaluation, considering factors including:
- The type of prior cesarean section. If it involves a longitudinal incision, a repeat cesarean section is typically recommended.
- The interval between pregnancies. An interval exceeding twelve months is preferable to minimize complications.
- Baby’s weight and position. A pelvic presentation may exert additional stress on the uterus, potentially increasing complications during VBAC.
Dr. Roukoudis has worked as a consultant in large obstetric clinics abroad, with over two thousand deliveries yearly, including a high percentage of VBAC. He has extensive experience in this regard, so you can feel safe throughout the entire VBAC process.
If you have questions about VBAC, we are available to answer them.
