Is Recovery Typically Quicker After VBAC Compared to a C-Section?

Aside from simply wanting to experience a natural, vaginal birth after having had a previous C-section, avoiding an extended recovery period and the other downsides of surgery are some of the most compelling reasons many women opt for VBAC — or vaginal birth after cesarean. In fact, having a VBAC can actually speed up your primary recovery after childbirth by several weeks.

At Essential Women's Health Associates, board-certified OBGYN Dr. Samantha Schoenhaus and our caring team of women's health specialists in Henderson and Las Vegas, NV understand the desire to try for VBAC and are committed to helping women adhere to their preferred birth plan whenever it is safe and appropriate to do so. Here, you'll find important information about the benefits of VBAC surgery, including how long recovery may last compared to a C-section, as well as who may qualify for VBAC.

Why should I choose VBAC?

Choosing a birth plan is extremely individualized and must take into account a number of important factors, including the patient's personal preferences, the health of the patient and the baby, the patient's previous birthing history and any complications, along with many others. Our knowledgeable team can help go through your available options, review your health and medical history, and help determine whether VBAC may be a potential possibility for you. Some of the reasons women choose VBAC include:

• Personal preferences
• Want to experience natural childbirth
• Hope to avoid surgery
• Lower risk of surgical complications
• No abdominal incision
• Faster recovery
• Less blood loss
• Increases the chance of subsequent VBAC opportunities

How long is VBAC recovery vs. C-section recovery?

Recovery after VBAC is very similar to recovery after vaginal birth. While each patient's experience will be unique, patients can generally expect to be monitored in the hospital for 1 – 2 days, along with their baby, before going home. Strenuous physical activities will be off limits for up to 6 – 8 weeks or until cleared by your provider, but VBAC patients can typically perform normal daily chores, lift and carry their baby, and take care of themselves physically soon after giving birth.

C-section patients, on the other hand, will have a longer and more extensive recovery, as they will be healing from a major abdominal surgery. This may mean no lifting — including lifting their baby — and the need for prolonged medication may mean they'll be unable to drive for longer than a VBAC patient would. Overall, recovery from VBAC vs. C-section is typically considered shorter, more comfortable, and less disruptive, making it one of the primary reasons many women hope to try for VBAC on their second or subsequent pregnancy after a previous C-section.

Who qualifies for a VBAC?

There are several things that will be considered when determining whether a patient qualifies for VBAC. In general, candidates for VBAC should be:

• In good health
• At a healthy, normal weight/BMI
• Have no history of previous complications during birth that would disqualify them from VBAC
• Not have a high, uterine incision from a previous C-section
• Be under 40 years of age
• Have had a normal, healthy pregnancy

Patients whose babies are breech, whose cervix won't dilate appropriately, and others may not qualify for VBAC. Additionally, patients should keep in mind that even if they initially are considered a good candidate for VBAC, that may change at some point in their pregnancy or even during delivery, which may ultimately mean a C-section is required. Throughout your pregnancy and labor, our dedicated team will closely monitor the health of you and your baby and make the appropriate recommendations to ensure a safe and successful delivery.

Wishing for a natural birth this time around? Find out if you're a candidate for VBAC in Las Vegas, NV

Whether you feel like you missed out on the experience of childbirth because of a previous C-section or you're just hoping to avoid invasive surgery and a lengthy recovery, you may have questions about the possibility of a VBAC — and we can help. Learn more about whether a VBAC may be possible for you by calling either of our convenient Essential Women's Health Associates locations in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV to schedule your consultation for VBAC with board-certified OBGYN Dr. Samantha Schoenhaus today.