Vaginal Births After Cesarean Deliveries

Siouxland Women’s Health Care offers women who have had cesarean sections in the past the option of delivering their next baby vaginally.

Support to determine if a VBAC is right for you

You and your Siouxland Women’s Health Care physician can discuss whether a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is right for you based on several factors, including your birth history, age and certain medical history. Know your options…

Am I a good candidate for VBAC?

  • Your previous incision was a low-transverse uterine incision (horizontal, not vertical or t-shaped)

  • Your pelvis seems large enough to allow your baby to pass through safely

  • You’ve never had extensive uterine surgery, such as a myomectomy to remove fibroids

  • You’ve never had a uterine rupture

  • You have no other medical conditions that would make a vaginal delivery risky

What if I try to have a VBAC, but it doesn’t work?

In the event that you are unable to deliver vaginally, a cesarean section will be performed. You can talk with your doctor about what might preclude a vaginal delivery and what options you have.

Which factors might work against me?

  • Being an older mom

  • Having a high body mass index (BMI)

  • A pregnancy that stretches beyond 40 weeks

  • Having pregnancies close together (within 18 months or less)

What are the benefits to considering a VBAC?

  • Delivery without abdominal surgery

  • Generally experience less pain

  • Reduced risk of infection and blood loss

  • Quicker recovery and return to daily activities

  • You’ll be more alert and able to leave the hospital sooner after delivery

Know The Risks

As with every medical procedure, there are some risks involved with a VBAC including infection, blood loss and other complications. There is also a rare but serious risk that your uterus’ cesarean scar could rupture, which presents a danger to you and your baby.

Talk To The Experts

Our experienced staff at Siouxland Women’s Health Care are happy to talk more with you about the possibility of having a VBAC and can help you weigh the benefits and the risks. Whatever you decide, we will support you.

Have Questions About VBAC?

Ask us today if a vaginal birth after cesarean is right for you.

Call our office at 712-252-0501 to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified doctors.