Tips for a Successful VBAC

Currently the Illinois cesarean rate is 31%. That’s one in three women giving birth experiencing a c-section in our state!! Many women who have experienced a c-section desire a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) their next time around.

ACOG (The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology) does have an official stance on VBACs. Here is their full and very detailed VBAC practice bulletin. Overall their general stance is that any woman who is healthy & relatively low-risk should be permitted to have a TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean) in hopes of achieving a successful VBAC.

So what are some things you can do to increase your likelihood of a VBAC?

1) Pick Your Birth Location Very Carefully.

Look up the primary c-section and VBAC rates for any birth location that you are considering. Most expectant parents don’t take this seriously enough. It’s VERY difficult to debate hospital policy or preferred practices in the heat of labor. Do your research before labor. Ask around for recommendations based on other friends or family who have actually had successful VBACs. Great resources for looking up your birth location’s stats is Leap Frog Group & IL Hospital Report Card.

2) Pick Your Provider Carefully.

Have discussions early and often about your desire for a VBAC. A provider that states clearly that they are against VBACs or are weary of them should be a red flag if that is your main goal. Advocate for yourself, but also respect your provider’s clearly stated stances. If they don’t line up with your values and wishes, find a new provider. I promise it is much easier than you think to switch…even late in pregnancy! We are so incredibly blessed in Chicagoland that is a “buyers’ market” for healthcare. Even if you are underinsured or have state insurance like Medicaid, you still have so many options! Pick a provider that makes you feel safe, encouraged, and supported in your birth goals and desires.

3) Hire a Doula.

Some women get lucky and feel so supported at their birth location and by their providers, but many sadly do not. One of the best ways to feel fully supported during your ENTIRE labor is by having a doula by your side the ENTIRE time. Research shows that doulas decrease c-section rates by as much as 41%. We are able to provide continuous emotional support, labor coaching, positional advice, comfort measures, and assistance in communicating collaboratively with your team. It makes a HUGE difference having a doula by your side!

I honestly did not realize how lucky I was to have 2 VBACs until I became a full-time doula. I was so blessed that it was always highly supported (and even encouraged) by my medical team. I know now some families really struggle with this.

What do you think? What’s been your experience with seeking a VBAC/TOLAC? Hope this is helpful!!