VBAC
VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, which refers to the delivery of a baby vaginally by a woman who has previously undergone a cesarean section (C-section) for a previous birth. VBAC is considered an option for women who desire to give birth vaginally after having had one or more previous cesarean deliveries.
Factors that Make a pERSON a Good Candidate for VBAC:
Previous Low-Transverse Incision: Women who have had a previous cesarean delivery with a low-transverse incision (horizontal incision along the lower portion of the uterus) are generally considered good candidates for VBAC. This type of incision has a lower risk of uterine rupture during labor compared to other types of uterine incisions.
Healthy Pregnancy: Women with an uncomplicated current pregnancy, including a single fetus in the head-down position (cephalic presentation), and no medical conditions that would contraindicate vaginal delivery are often good candidates for VBAC.
Reason for Previous C-Section: Women whose previous cesarean delivery was not due to conditions that would recur in subsequent pregnancies (such as breech presentation or placenta previa) may be good candidates for VBAC.
Willingness to Attempt Labor: A woman's willingness to attempt labor and undergo a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) is an essential factor in considering VBAC candidacy.
Risks of VBAC:
While VBAC can be a safe option for many women, it is not without risks. Some potential risks associated with VBAC include:
Uterine Rupture: This is the most significant concern with VBAC. Uterine rupture occurs when the scar from a previous cesarean incision tears open during labor, which can lead to life-threatening complications for both the mother and the baby.
Failed VBAC: There is a possibility that a woman attempting VBAC may not be successful in achieving a vaginal birth and may require a repeat cesarean delivery.
Other Complications: Although less common, other complications such as infection, hemorrhage, and injury to the bladder or bowel can occur during VBAC.
It's essential for when considering VBAC to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare providers to make an informed decision about your delivery options.
Sources:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2020). Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/vaginal-birth-after-cesarean-delivery
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vbac/about/pac-20395249
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