What Factors Can Increase the Chances of a Successful VBAC?
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Hoping for a vaginal birth after a previous C-section? A VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) allows you to deliver naturally rather than through surgery. Certain factors can increase your chances of success, including having a previous vaginal birth, going into labor spontaneously, having a low-risk pregnancy, and having a low horizontal incision from a previous birth.
At Essential Women's Health Associates, serving Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, board-certified OBGYN Dr. Samantha Schoenhaus helps patients understand their VBAC success rate and create a personalized birth plan. If you want to learn more or explore natural birth, call today to schedule a consultation.
What is a VBAC?
So, what is a VBAC? It's a birthing option that allows you to deliver your baby through the vaginal canal after having a previous C-section.
Benefits of this method of childbirth include shorter recovery time, no abdominal incisions, decreased likelihood of scarring, infection, and placental issues, less blood loss, and a better option for those who want additional pregnancies in the future.
Who qualifies for a VBAC?
A VBAC is an ideal option if you had a previous C-section but don't want to repeat that surgery. However, not everyone is a candidate.
A VBAC is generally not recommended for pregnant women over the age of 40, those who are obese, have a high vertical uterine incision from previous surgery, or have a history of uterine fibroids or uterine rupture.
During your consultation in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV, Dr. Schoenhaus will review your medical history and discuss whether a natural birth is safe and appropriate for your pregnancy.
How VBAC labor and delivery work
A VBAC progresses naturally, just like a standard vaginal birth. Your labor will be closely monitored to ensure both you and your baby remain safe throughout the process. Your baby's heart rate will be tracked to detect any signs of distress.
If labor progresses smoothly and both you and your baby are doing well, you should deliver vaginally. However, if complications arise, such as labor stalling, your cervix not dilating appropriately, or your baby showing signs of distress, an emergency C-section may be necessary.
Understanding your VBAC success rate
Several factors can improve your VBAC success rate:
- Previous vaginal birth: If you've had a successful natural birth before, your chances of a successful VBAC are higher.
- Spontaneous labor: Going into labor naturally rather than being induced increases your likelihood of success.
- Low-risk pregnancy: Having a healthy pregnancy without complications improves your odds.
- Type of previous incision: A low horizontal incision from your previous C-section is safer for a VBAC than a vertical incision.
Dr. Schoenhaus will assess these factors during your consultation and help you understand your individual VBAC success rate.
Expert care for VBAC deliveries
At Essential Women's Health Associates, our highly trained and experienced team understands the importance of a personalized birth plan. Our team can closely monitor your labor and is prepared to adjust the plan if needed.
Recovery after a VBAC is typically much faster than after a C-section. You and your baby will recuperate for 1 – 2 days in the hospital, and most new mothers begin to feel normal again in about 6 – 8 weeks.
Plan your VBAC with confidence
So, what is a VBAC, and how does it work? At Essential Women's Health Associates, in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, we understand that you may have questions. Dr. Samantha Schoenhaus, who is board-certified in osteopathic medicine, specializes in VBAC deliveries and can help you understand your VBAC success rate. Call today to book your consultation.