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Vaginal Birth After Cesarean


If you have had a baby by cesarean delivery in the past, it is important to talk about your delivery plans with your doctor or midwife early in your prenatal care. Many women who had had a past cesarean delivery can try to have a vaginal birth after cesarean delivery (VBAC).

VBAC provides many benefits for women. Women who have a VBAC avoid major surgery and the risks that go along with it. Recovery is shorter after a vaginal delivery compared with a cesarean delivery. If you want more children, having a VBAC can help you avoid some of the potential future complications of multiple cesarean deliveries, such as infection, bowel or bladder injury, or hysterectomy.

There are, however, some risks involved with VBAC that may not make it the right choice for you. The decision of whether to try a vaginal delivery or to have a repeat cesarean can be complex. Let your doctor or midwife know if you're interested in trying to have a VBAC with this pregnancy. Together, you can consider the risks and benefits that apply to your situation.