Many women often wonder: Is it possible to have a vaginal birth after previously delivering by C-section? In the medical world, this is known as Vaginal Birth After Caesarean, or VBAC. To be eligible, certain requirements must be fulfilled, and women also need to understand the risks involved.
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What is VBAC?
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) refers to giving birth vaginally after previously undergoing a Caesarean delivery. In a C-section, doctors make an incision in the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby.
The purpose of VBAC is to give mothers who had a previous C-section the chance to deliver naturally in their next pregnancy. However, not every case is safe for VBAC.
Factors doctors consider before recommending VBAC include:
- Type of incision made in the previous C-section and the number of C-sections performed
- The mother’s medical history
- Presence of certain health conditions or complications
- The baby’s position and possible medical abnormalities
An obstetrician will assess whether VBAC is safe, while also explaining the potential risks and benefits. Based on this consultation, the mother can decide to try VBAC or opt for another C-section.
Studies show that up to 75% of women who have had one C-section can successfully deliver vaginally in their next pregnancy. However, this success rate decreases to about 50% after two or more C-sections.
In medical terms, VBAC is also referred to as a Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC). If TOLAC is successful, the delivery ends in VBAC. If unsuccessful, the mother will still undergo another C-section.
Requirements for VBAC
Before a woman can attempt VBAC, certain requirements must be met.
According to dr. Gracia Merryane R.G Rauw, Sp.OG, an obstetrician and gynecologist (OBGYN) at RS Mandaya Royal Puri, the main requirements for VBAC are:
1. Pregnancy interval
Ideally, there should be a gap of at least 1–2 years after the last C-section. This allows the uterus enough time to heal and regain strength.
2. Baby’s weight
Baby’s weight is an important factor in VBAC. The ideal weight is under 4 kg. Some medical literature even recommends below 3.5 kg to minimize complications.
3. Baby’s position
The baby should be in a head-down position facing the birth canal. VBAC is generally not recommended if the baby is breech or lying sideways.
4. No labor induction
VBAC is best attempted through natural labor, without induction drugs. Induction can increase the risk of uterine rupture at the previous C-section scar.
5. Pelvic condition
The mother’s pelvis must be wide enough to allow vaginal birth. The reason for the previous C-section, such as a narrow pelvis or placenta previa, should also be considered.
Benefits of VBAC Compared to C-section
VBAC offers several advantages over repeat C-sections, including:
- Faster recovery: Shorter healing time and hospital stay.
- No abdominal surgery: Eliminates the risks associated with surgical incisions.
- Lower complication risks: Reduced chance of heavy bleeding or infection common in C-sections.
- Better newborn health: Passing through the birth canal helps expel fluid from the baby’s lungs, aiding breathing.
- Immune system support: Vaginal delivery exposes the baby to beneficial bacteria that strengthen immunity.
- Avoiding repeated surgery risks: Such as scar tissue or organ injury.
- Personal experience: Some mothers wish to experience natural childbirth as part of their journey.
What Are the Risks of VBAC?
Since a C-section leaves a scar on the uterus, the pressure during labor may cause uterine rupture at the scar site. However, recent studies show that VBAC can still be safe in most cases.
Although rare, uterine rupture is a serious, life-threatening complication. If the risk is deemed too high, doctors usually advise against VBAC.
Other possible risks of VBAC include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Emergency C-section (often riskier than a planned one)
Consult About VBAC at RS Mandaya Royal Puri
If you have had a previous C-section and are considering VBAC for your next pregnancy, consult with dr. Gracia Merryane R.G Rauw, Sp.OG at RS Mandaya Royal Puri.
Dr. Gracia is an experienced OBGYN who has managed VBAC cases. She earned her medical degree and specialization in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Sam Ratulangi University.
Her expertise includes:
- Lactation Consultation
- Family Planning Counseling
- Ovulation Induction
- Labor Induction & Caesarean Section
- Hysterectomy
- Sterilization
- Laparoscopy
- Pap Smear
- Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS)
- LEEP Procedure
dr. Gracia’s Practice Schedule at RS Mandaya Royal Puri
- Monday: 08.00 – 11.00 & 13.00 – 18.00
- Tuesday: 08.00 – 11.00 & 13.00 – 18.00
- Wednesday: 08.00 – 11.00 & 13.00 – 18.00
- Thursday: 08.00 – 11.00 & 13.00 – 18.00
- Friday: 08.00 – 11.00 & 13.00 – 18.00
- Saturday: 08.00 – 11.00 & 13.00 – 18.00
For easier access, use the Chat via WhatsApp, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app (available on Google Play and App Store) to manage your visit, check queue numbers, and get complete information.
