VBAC Counseling
If you’ve had a cesarean birth in the past and are considering a vaginal delivery, you may be a candidate for VBAC—Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. For many women, VBAC offers a safe, empowering birth experience with a shorter recovery time and fewer surgical risks.
At Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, we provide VBAC counseling to help you make an informed, confident decision about your birth options and ensure the safest possible delivery for you and your baby.
What Is VBAC?
VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, meaning delivering a baby vaginally after one or more prior cesarean deliveries. While not everyone is a candidate, many women are—especially those with a low-transverse uterine incision and no significant risk factors.
Benefits of VBAC
When appropriate, a VBAC can offer several important advantages compared to a repeat C-section:
- Shorter recovery and hospital stay
- Lower risk of infection or surgical complications
- Less blood loss and faster healing
- Greater involvement in the birthing experience
- Reduced risks in future pregnancies (such as placenta previa or accreta)
Every situation is unique, and VBAC counseling helps you understand both the benefits and considerations so you can make the best choice for your health and goals.
Are You a Candidate for VBAC?
Your OB/GYN will review your medical and surgical history to determine whether VBAC is a safe option. You may be a good candidate if you:
- Had one previous C-section with a low-transverse (horizontal) incision
- Have no history of uterine rupture or complications
- Previously had a vaginal delivery
- Are carrying one baby in a head-down position
- Are otherwise experiencing a low-risk pregnancy
You may not be a candidate if you:
- Had a classical (vertical) uterine incision
- Have had multiple C-sections without any vaginal births
- Are carrying multiples (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Have a history of uterine rupture or other significant conditions
Your provider will help you review your records and discuss your personal likelihood of success with VBAC.
What to Expect During VBAC Counseling
VBAC counseling is typically part of your prenatal care. During this visit, your provider will:
- Review your surgical history and previous delivery records
- Discuss the benefits and risks of VBAC versus repeat cesarean
- Assess your individual chances of a successful vaginal delivery
- Explain how Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC) is monitored
- Address your questions and help create a safe, flexible birth plan
This conversation ensures that you understand all your options and can plan for a delivery approach that fits your health, preferences, and comfort.
Understanding the Risks
VBAC is considered safe for most women, but it does carry certain risks, including:
- Uterine rupture (rare but serious): a tear in the uterine scar from a previous cesarean
- Emergency cesarean if labor stalls or complications arise
- Slightly increased risk of infection or bleeding if a C-section becomes necessary after a failed VBAC
Having VBAC in a hospital setting ensures continuous monitoring, immediate access to emergency care, and the best possible safety for both you and your baby.
Planning Your Delivery
If you choose to pursue VBAC, your delivery plan will include:
- Labor and delivery in a hospital equipped for emergency cesarean if needed
- Continuous fetal and maternal monitoring
- Skilled support from your OB/GYN and nursing team
- Emphasis on safety, comfort, and flexibility throughout labor
Even if a cesarean becomes necessary, you’ll have the reassurance of knowing that your care plan prioritizes both your safety and your birth preferences.
Personalized, Compassionate Care
Every pregnancy and every birth story is unique. At Legacy For Women, we believe you deserve a voice in your birth experience and the guidance to make informed, confident choices.
If you’re considering VBAC, schedule a VBAC counseling appointment with our team in Henderson, NV, to discuss your options and create a plan that supports your health and your goals for delivery.