The Benefits of a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) vs. the Risks of a Repeat Cesarean

Hi Mama!

I’m so glad you’re here, preparing for your best birth experience! Whether you are striving to achieve your own vaginal birth after a cesarean or you’re just curious, I’m eager to share this important information with you. I was at the park today and I saw a pregnant mama. I immediately wished her congratulations and started asking her about her upcoming birth. Long story short, she ended up sharing with me, “My first was a c-section so this one will be a c-section too.” Of course, I asked her, “Why is that?” And she looked at me (very confused) and said, “Well, since my first was a c-section then this one should be too.” What do you think I said…? Well, I told her the truth! “Did you know, there’s a high chance you could probably have a vaginal birth if you wanted one?” And that opened up a can of worms ;)

For mamas who have previously had a cesarean birth, the decision between attempting a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) or scheduling a repeat C-section is a significant one. While medical recommendations vary, those seeking a natural, holistic approach to birth often find that VBAC aligns better with their values and desire for a low-intervention birth. Understanding the benefits of a VBAC and the risks associated with a repeat C-section can help mamas make an informed decision that supports both their body’s natural capabilities and their baby’s well-being.

Benefits of VBAC

1. Lower Risk of Surgical Complications

   • Avoids risks associated with major abdominal surgery, such as infection, blood clots, and anesthesia complications.

2. Faster Recovery and Healing

   • Vaginal birth typically allows for a quicker postpartum recovery, less pain, and a shorter hospital stay.

3. Supports Hormonal and Physiological Processes

   • Natural labor releases beneficial hormones, such as oxytocin, which aid in bonding, breastfeeding success, and postpartum healing.

4. Reduced Risk of Future Pregnancy Complications

   • Multiple C-sections increase risks of placenta previa, placenta accreta, and uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies.

5. Increased Likelihood of Immediate Skin-to-Skin and Breastfeeding

   • Vaginal birth facilitates immediate contact between mother and baby, supporting breastfeeding initiation and maternal-infant bonding.

Risks of a Repeat Cesarean:

1. Increased Risk of Surgical Complications:

   • Women undergoing a repeat C-section have a higher risk of complications such as infections, excessive bleeding, and blood clots.

   • Infection rates can range from 5-20% depending on various factors, including hospital practices and the patient’s health.

2. Risks of Adhesions:

   • With each cesarean, the chance of adhesions (scar tissue that binds organs together) increases. Adhesions can lead to pain, complications in future surgeries, and issues with surrounding organs like the bladder or intestines.

   • Studies estimate adhesion formation in 46-65% of repeat cesarean deliveries.

3. Increased Risk of Placenta Issues:

   • Placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix) and placenta accreta (where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall) are more likely with repeat C-sections.

   • Women with multiple cesareans are at a 1 in 10 risk of developing placenta previa, and the risk of placenta accreta can increase to 1 in 20 or more after multiple surgeries.

4. Longer Recovery Time:

   • Each subsequent cesarean can result in a longer and more painful recovery period. The hospital stay is often extended to about 3-4 days, compared to 1-2 days for a vaginal birth.

5. Surgical Complications:

   • There is a higher risk of needing a blood transfusion during a repeat C-section compared to the first.

   • The risk of injury to organs such as the bladder or bowel increases with each surgery, with reports suggesting up to 2-5% of cases might encounter such issues.

6. Maternal Mortality Risk:

   • Although rare, the risk of maternal mortality is higher in repeat cesareans than in vaginal births. The risk is approximately 13 per 100,000 repeat C-sections, compared to about 4 per 100,000 vaginal deliveries.

7. Future Pregnancy Risks:

   • Repeat cesareans can lead to complications in future pregnancies, such as uterine rupture and higher chances of miscarriage or preterm birth.

   • The risk of uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies can be as high as 1% in women with previous C-sections, especially if labor begins spontaneously or is induced.

Holistic Considerations

• Optimal Nutrition and Prenatal Care: Proper diet and lifestyle choices can help strengthen the body for a successful VBAC so it’s important to work with the right care team who can provide great prenatal care to set you up for a successful VBAC.

• Mind-Body Preparation: Practices such as hypnobirthing (check out one of our upcoming classes), chiropractic care, and prenatal yoga can enhance your ability to have a successful VBAC.

• Supportive Birth Team: Choosing a VBAC-friendly provider and having a doula can increase the likelihood of a successful vaginal birth.

Key Takeaway

Each additional cesarean can bring a cumulative increase in risks, including more complex surgeries and potential challenges in future pregnancies. This highlights why some women consider VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) to avoid these risks if they meet the criteria for a safe vaginal delivery.

We’d love to help!

If you're considering a VBAC and want to be fully prepared, we’re here to help! Connect with a VBAC-friendly provider, hire an experienced VBAC doula, and educate yourself on your options. Want personalized support on your journey? Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and resources for expectant mothers seeking a natural and empowering birth experience! Schedule a consultation

Here at Anointed Births, we have a 100% successful VBAC rate with our clients and less than 1% of our clients have had a cesarean birth (.06% to be exact). Over 60% of our clients have had epidural-free births (as of September 2024).

For more information, visit:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov

• Evidence Based Birth: https://evidencebasedbirth.com

By understanding these options, mamas can make informed choices that honor their body’s natural abilities while minimizing unnecessary interventions.

Anything stated in this blog is not medical advice.

Stay Tuned…

for more tips, stories, and resources on how to have your best birth!

And in the meantime, if you are looking for in-person support in Orange County, LA County, San Diego County, and the Inland Empire, click the button below to schedule your FREE consultation for any of the following services:

• Birth Classes

• Birth & Postpartum Doula Services

• Birth Photography & Videography

• Placenta Encapsulation

• Lactation Support

• Private Birth Planning Sessions

• & More!

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

Check out our latest instagram posts!