Is Vaginal birth after C-Section possible?
What is a vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC)?
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) means giving birth through the vagina after giving birth previously by cesarean section (C-section).
If one is pregnant again after a cesarean section, one may wonder if a vaginal birth could be an option this time.
Vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is possible for many women; there are factors that need to be considered before making a decision
Safety for the Mother and Baby is the main thing to consider. They need to be in good health to attempt VBAC.VBAC is not always safe for every woman.
Is Vaginal birth after C-Section possible?
Failed VBAC can occur in case of:
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Obesity (Body mass index is 30 or higher)
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Advanced Maternal Age (usually older than 35)
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The previous cesarean was in the last 18 months
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Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
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Diabetes mellitus (uncontrolled Sugars )
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Big baby
Risks of VBAC are:
Infection, Blood loss, and other complications.
Uterine rupture: Low incidence but serious risk. The cesarean scar on the uterus may rupture (break open). Although a rupture of the uterus is rare, it is very serious to both mother and baby
Hysterectomy: Due to uterine rupture or placental invasion into the uterine muscle due to the previous scar.
A successful VBAC has the following benefits:
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Surgery is avoided
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Fast recovery
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Lower risk of infection and reduced blood loss
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Better for future pregnancies
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Less chance of respiratory distress for the baby
Planned cesarean is recommended if:
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Previously complicated cesarean section, scar on the upper part of the uterus (classical caesareans section )
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Pregnancy complication that prevents having a vaginal birth, for example, high blood pressure, the baby is in the breech position or there is concern about the size or health of your baby
The reason you had your previous cesarean still exists 2 or more previous Caesarean sections.
Previous Uterine rupture:
Previous uterine surgeries such as removal of fibroids / Hysterotomy (an incision through the muscle of the uterus), VBAC might be possible after considering risk factors.
Multiple pregnancies (for example, twins, triplets, or more). The short interval between the two pregnancies, less than 18 months. The placenta is low lying or covering the mouth of the uterus ( Placenta Praevia).
Why does one choose for a Repeat cesarean section?
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Auspicious time
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Scheduling Convenience
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Ease of family planning
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Fear and failure of Labour
Old era of once a caesarean , always a cesarean no longer holds good !!!