If you’ve previously delivered via cesarean section, you may have the option to give birth vaginally in your next pregnancy — this is known as VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). When planned under the right conditions and closely monitored by an experienced medical team, VBAC can be a safe and empowering alternative for both mother and baby.
What Is VBAC?
VBAC refers to giving birth vaginally after a prior cesarean delivery. Having had a cesarean before does not necessarily mean that all future deliveries must be surgical. Many women remain good candidates for vaginal delivery in subsequent pregnancies.
Recent studies show that, in properly selected cases, VBAC success rates can reach 60–80%, making it a hopeful option for women who wish to experience vaginal birth.
What Are the Advantages?
VBAC offers several important benefits:
- Faster recovery time
- Less pain and shorter hospital stay
- No surgical complications
- Quicker return to daily activities
- Reduced likelihood of multiple cesareans in future pregnancies
- In addition, a successful vaginal birth can be a deeply rewarding physical and emotional experience for many women.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Not every woman is suitable for VBAC. The decision must be made after a detailed evaluation. VBAC is typically considered in the following cases:
- Only one prior cesarean section
- Transverse (horizontal) uterine incision
- Pelvic structure suitable for vaginal birth
- Favorable fetal position and estimated weight
- No medical contraindications (e.g., placenta previa, active herpes infection)
VBAC is not generally recommended if you had a vertical (classical) uterine incision in a previous cesarean, a multiple pregnancy, or a history of other uterine surgeries.
How Is VBAC Planned?
Vaginal birth after cesarean must take place in a hospital setting with continuous monitoring. At our clinic, VBAC care is structured as follows:
- Comprehensive prenatal assessments and risk evaluations throughout pregnancy
- Confirmation of the baby’s position and weight by ultrasound before labor begins
- Continuous monitoring of fetal heart rate and maternal vital signs during labor
- Immediate access to an operating room if surgical intervention becomes necessary
- This preparation ensures a safe and well-controlled birthing process.
Decision-Making Process
The decision for VBAC is made collaboratively between the expectant mother and her physician, taking into account her preferences, medical history, and current pregnancy conditions. Our clinical team provides full transparency — answering your questions, explaining each option, and supporting you through every stage of the birthing journey.
