5 Reasons to Plan a VBAC

If you first baby was a cesarean (or your second or third) and you are expecting again, you might find yourself faced with the decision to plan for a vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC) or schedule a repeat cesarean.  For many women, whatever your choice, it’s an easy decision.  For others, it might take more thought.  Often a repeat cesarean is the default but it doesn’t have to be.  Here are 5 reasons to plan a VBAC.

1. Most women who plan a VBAC will have a VBAC.  Research shows that more than 80% of women who plan a VBAC, no matter the reason for their previous cesarean, will be successful.  That is roughly the same odds as a first time mother. That’s pretty good odds of avoiding surgery.
2. The recovery time.  A normal, uncomplicated, vaginal birth will always have a shorter recovery time that a normal, uncomplicated, cesarean.  While there are never any guarantees, either way keep in mind, most births are normal and uncomplicated.  Think about how great it would be to actually be able to get up and take care of yourself and your baby while you’re still in the hospital and how much easier it would be to chase your older child when you get home.  Also, you get to go home sooner.  Home with your own bed and no one (other than your kids) busting in on you all night long.
3. A VBAC is safer for mom and a vaginal birth is better for baby.  Babies born vaginally have less breathing problems at birth and beyond.  Women who have a VBAC are less likely to get an infection, have a hemorrhage, or have surgical damage to other organs.  Also, vaginal birth statistically makes breastfeeding more likely to be successful.  
4. The need for a do-over.  Many woman have a sense of loss after a cesarean birth.  Of course a healthy baby/healthy mama is the most important thing, but it’s not the ONLY important thing.  That feeling of loss might be because if they knew then what they knew now, things would have happened very differently.  Wanting to know you are in charge and heard is important.  
5. You want to.  You don’t have to have a VBAC.  In fact, you might find it harder to find the support than you think it should be.  There are very valid reasons for choosing to have a repeat cesarean.  It will not be difficult to find a provider that will support you in that choice.  But you should have the choice and if you want one, plan one.    

If you do choose to plan a VBAC, pick your care provider and place of birth carefully.  Hire a doula like me!  ETA: I serve Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, and the North Idaho area ;).  Find a support group like ICAN.  Know you aren’t alone and go for it!

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