Understanding Vbacs

Did you know it is possible to have a vaginal birth even if you previously had a C-section? This is known as a VBAC and refers to giving birth vaginally after previously undergoing cesarean delivery. It is something to consider if you are pregnant as there are many benefits, such as avoiding surgery and a shorter hospital stay. The board-certified OB/GYN doctors at Premiere OB/GYN in Pembroke Pines, FL, Hollywood, and Plantation, FL, understand VBAC and can determine if you are a candidate.

Benefits and Risks of VBAC

A primary benefit of a VBAC is that there are generally fewer risks associated with delivering vaginally versus by cesarean. There is typically a greater possibility of complications with C-sections. Some of the many benefits of vaginal births and VBACs include:

  • No surgery
  • Less blood loss
  • Lower risk of infection
  • Lower risk of blood clots
  • Less pain after giving birth
  • The baby less likely to have breathing problems
  • Quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay
  • Ability to resume normal activities sooner

Although there are numerous benefits to giving birth vaginally, there are certain risks associated with doing so after a C-section. The most serious risk is a uterine rupture, in which the uterus tears. If that happens, the baby could slip into the mother’s abdomen. Fortunately, a uterine rupture is extremely rare, but it is something to discuss with your OB/GYN.

Another possible risk is that the VBAC will not be successful and the baby will still need to be delivered by cesarean. Factors that can contribute to an unsuccessful VBAC and the need for another C-section include advanced maternal age, a large baby, high maternal weight, and a pregnancy that has lasted longer than 40 weeks and has already had two or more cesarean deliveries.

Candidates for VBAC

Not every expectant mother will be a good candidate for a VBAC, such as women with a higher risk of experiencing complications. The doctors at our OB/GYN practice in Pembroke Pines, FL, have extensive experience with VBACs and can determine if you are an ideal candidate. To be a candidate for a VBAC it is important to be at a healthy weight and under 36 years of age. Women who have successfully delivered vaginally in the past are potentially also good candidates.

A VBAC might not be an option for women who have previously undergone more than two C-sections. Women who have experienced a uterine rupture or have had a high vertical uterine incision are also not candidates for VBACs. Mothers pregnant with triplets or higher-order multiples usually are not candidates either.

Vaginal birth is a realistic option for many women who have previously had a C-section. Your OB/GYN can determine if you are a candidate, explain the benefits and risks, and help you make an informed decision. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled and caring doctors to learn more about VBACs by calling Premiere OB/GYN in Pembroke Pines, FL, Hollywood, and Plantation, FL, today. Contact us at (954) 961-9993 in Pembroke Pines, and Hollywood, and (954) 791-2810 in Plantation, FL.

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