VBAC Counseling

If you have had a cesarean delivery in the past and are considering a vaginal birth for your current pregnancy, you may be a candidate for VBAC, or vaginal birth after cesarean. For eligible patients, VBAC can be a safe and empowering option with benefits such as shorter recovery time and fewer surgical risks. At Complete Care ObGyn, our Henderson OB/GYN team provides thoughtful VBAC counseling to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your health, your baby’s safety, and your birth goals.

VBAC counseling is designed to give you clear information, personalized guidance, and supportive care throughout your pregnancy.

What Is VBAC?

VBAC stands for vaginal birth after cesarean. It refers to delivering a baby vaginally after having one or more prior C-sections. Many women are candidates for VBAC, particularly those with a low-transverse uterine incision and no significant contraindications.

Your provider will carefully review your medical and surgical history to determine whether VBAC is a safe option for you.

Benefits of VBAC

When successful, VBAC can offer several potential benefits compared to a repeat cesarean delivery, including:

• Shorter recovery time after delivery
• Lower risk of infection and surgical complications
• Reduced blood loss
• Greater participation in the birth experience
• Lower risk of complications in future pregnancies

Choosing VBAC is a personal decision. Counseling helps you weigh these benefits alongside potential risks.

Are You a Candidate for VBAC?

VBAC eligibility depends on several factors. You may be a candidate if you:

• Have had one prior cesarean with a low-transverse incision
• Have no history of uterine rupture
• Have had a prior vaginal delivery, either before or after a C-section
• Are carrying one baby in a head-down position
• Have an otherwise low-risk pregnancy

You may not be a candidate if you:

• Had a classical or vertical uterine incision
• Have had multiple prior C-sections without vaginal births
• Are carrying multiples such as twins or triplets
• Have a history of uterine rupture or other significant complications

Your provider will discuss how these factors apply to your individual situation.

What to Expect from VBAC Counseling

VBAC counseling is typically part of your ongoing prenatal care. During this visit, your provider will:

• Review records from previous cesarean deliveries
• Explain the risks and benefits of VBAC versus repeat cesarean
• Discuss your likelihood of a successful VBAC
• Review what labor and monitoring will involve during a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC)
• Answer questions and help develop a flexible birth plan

This conversation ensures you feel informed and supported in your decision-making.

Understanding the Risks

VBAC is considered safe for many patients, but it does carry some risks that should be understood. These may include:

• Uterine rupture, which is rare but serious
• Emergency cesarean delivery if labor does not progress or complications arise
• Slightly increased risk of infection or bleeding if a cesarean is needed after attempted VBAC

VBAC is planned in a hospital setting with continuous monitoring to ensure immediate access to care if needed.

Planning Your Delivery

If you choose to pursue VBAC, your care plan will focus on safety and preparedness. This typically includes:

• Labor and delivery in a hospital with appropriate monitoring
• Immediate access to surgical support if a cesarean becomes necessary
• Ongoing support from your OB/GYN and care team
• Flexibility in your birth plan to respond to changing circumstances

Whether your delivery is vaginal or cesarean, the priority is a safe and healthy outcome.

Personalized, Respectful Care

Every pregnancy and birth experience is unique. You deserve care that respects your preferences while prioritizing safety.

Schedule a VBAC counseling appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to discuss your options and create a plan that supports your goals.