If the patient has had at least one C-section, she may want to know if she can have a future birth by normal vaginal delivery. Well, the answer is yes. Different studies have proved that a normal vaginal birth after a caesarean has around a 60 to 80 per cent success rate. Speaking about VBAC means giving birth through the vagina after a C-section. In the procedure of a C-section, a surgical cut is made through the belly as well as the uterus.

Who qualifies for VBAC?

As per the doctors, VBAC can be appropriate or safe for women, including women:

Whose previous C-section cut was made across the uterus towards the base. It is called the low-transverse incision. It may be noted that the incision made on the uterus is quite different from the cut on the skin.
Two low-transverse C-section incisions were made.
With a uterine incision that is unknown
With twins

Women who have previously had a uterine rupture are not candidates for this procedure. On the other hand, home delivery is not good for VBAC.

Why is this procedure conducted?

Compared to having a Caesarean, a VBAC involves no surgery and doesn't create many severe complications. Besides, this procedure lowers the risk of blood loss or other complications. It is the same as a normal vaginal birth.

Benefits of a surgery or procedure

This procedure doesn't involve abdominal surgery.
It involves a lower risk of infection and haemorrhage compared to a caesarean procedure.
Women with VBAC can enjoy faster recovery.
With this procedure, it is possible to lower the risk of multiple C-section deliveries, including hysterectomy, infection, blood transfusion, an abnormal placenta, and more.
VBAC increases the chances of having more children in the future.
If labour fails to progress or if the patient has other health issues, the doctor may suggest a C-section after TOLAC. A successful VBAC allows a woman to experience a vaginal birth. VBAC can help women who plan to have children in the future avoid some health issues associated with C-section procedures, such as bladder injury. If you are planning to do the same, then consult a doctor now to know whether VBAC will be an ideal option for you or not.

Risks or Complications

Well, a successful VBAC procedure is associated with fewer complications compared to a repeat Cesarean. However, a failed VBAC after a C-section may create more complications. Some patients may suffer from a uterine rupture. However, this condition is very rare; less than 1 per cent of women develop it while in labour after a C-section. However, the patients should keep in mind that uterine rupture can be life-threatening for both the baby and the mother.

If it happens, the doctor may carry out an emergency C-section. However, some other risks to consider are:

Blood loss
Infection
A scar on the uterus. If the uterus is removed, the patient won't be able to get pregnant in the future.

Conclusion

Patients should not assume that because their previous child was born via c-section, all of their future children need to be delivered in the same way. Some may have read that scars made during the C-section incision can affect their future pregnancies. But this is not the truth. Women with C-sections can opt for a VBAC procedure later. So, it is advisable to properly discuss C-section and VBAC options with the doctor early in the pregnancy. Ensure that you have understood all the risks and that the doctor understands your requirements and health conditions.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, DELHI-NCR - Chirag Enclave. Call 1860-500-1066 to book an appointment.

1. What should be the minimum time gap between a C-section and a VBAC?

As per the doctor, one should try to attempt VBAC around 20 months after a C-section, or else it may increase the risk of uterine rupture.

2. What are the major factors that can affect the success rate of VBAC?

As per some studies, factors such as HDCP, labour induction, diabetes, age, obesity, birthweight, the Bishop score, and previous vaginal births can greatly influence the success of vaginal birth after caesarean.

3. Who decides the VBAC procedure?

Well, the choice to go through a VABC procedure is a personal one. But this is something that should be based on a doctor's advice. Before making any decision, discuss the complications and risks with the doctor.

4. Is VBAC safe after one C-section?

Yes, VABC is possible after one cesarean, and the success rate, in this case, is more than 70 per cent. Consult a doctor for more information.

5. What are the risks of a c-section?

Compared to VBAC, the C-section procedure involves more risks and complications. The patients may suffer from blood loss, injury to the bladder, pain, blood clots in the pelvis area, abnormal attachment of the placenta, and more.