4 Things You Should Know About Planning for a VBAC

home insemination Kit

My partner and I completely ignored the C-section section of our birthing class. We were determined to have a classic, pain-managed vaginal birth—so we thought all that other stuff was irrelevant. Fast forward to three hours into pushing, with my epidural fading, and my doctor walked in to inform me that a C-section was necessary. It turns out we didn’t really need to study that part because the medical team took charge. My partner played the confused dad role perfectly, and I was left thinking, “I can feel that way too.”

Despite being thrust into a situation we weren’t prepared for, both my baby and I emerged from the surgery okay. However, the days following the birth were more challenging than I anticipated. If you’ve had a C-section, you’re all too familiar with the struggle of taking your first post-surgery shower. Recovering from major surgery while navigating a whirlwind of postpartum emotions and caring for a newborn is no small feat. A C-section, like any surgery, can lead to serious complications, and it’s not what most women envision for their birth experience. If you’re hoping to avoid that scenario again, here’s what you should keep in mind if you’re considering a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).

1. Be Prepared for Pushback

The discussions around VBACs often start before you even know it’s an option. At my six-week postpartum appointment, my regular OB-GYN suggested I would need a C-section for my next delivery. I didn’t question her—big mistake! It wasn’t until I met with another doctor for my annual exam that I learned a VBAC was actually possible. He explained that since there wasn’t a clear medical reason for my first C-section, I could aim for a VBAC. That reassurance was all I needed to feel hopeful.

However, that supportive vibe was short-lived. I had to switch hospitals because my original one didn’t offer VBACs. At the new place, I met with a different doctor or midwife during each visit, and every single one of them seemed determined to dissuade me. “VBACs are risky. Are you sure you don’t want to just go for another C-section?” was the standard line. Even the night my water broke, while I was focusing on contractions and waiting for my epidural, the staff suggested a C-section again. If a VBAC is what you want, make sure your partner and healthcare team are on the same page. You might need to advocate for your choice at every turn.

2. Your Success Rate Depends on Unexpected Factors

Doctors assess various straightforward factors, like your anatomy and why you had a C-section before. What surprised me was the existence of a calculator that hospitals use, which takes into account seemingly random pieces of information to determine your likelihood of a successful VBAC. This includes your age, body mass index, and even your ethnicity—did you know that white women are statistically more likely to successfully have a VBAC than Hispanic women? I have no idea why!

Initially, I was told my chances were 34 percent. That didn’t deter me, and when they actually utilized the calculator, my odds were closer to 53 percent. Statistics can inform you about trends, but they can’t predict your specific experience. Use these numbers as just one element of your decision-making process.

3. Recovery Will Be a Different Journey

This might seem obvious, but if a C-section is all you’ve experienced, recovering from a VBAC will feel like a whole new world. After my C-section at 12:04 p.m., I didn’t get out of bed until the following morning—thanks to the lingering effects of the epidural. My first shuffling walk to the shower was painful, and I needed my partner’s help to scrub off the surgical tape.

After my VBAC, however, I managed to walk from the delivery room to my recovery room less than two hours after giving birth. I didn’t have a catheter or need painkillers, and I wasn’t constantly fearful of pain when I coughed or laughed. I kept telling my partner, “I can’t believe how great I feel!” Every recovery is unique, but generally, the experience won’t mirror that of surgery.

4. You’ll Feel Immensely Proud

Call me sentimental, but my VBAC stands as one of my proudest achievements—right up there with my college degree. After months of hearing all the reasons why I shouldn’t pursue a VBAC, you bet I felt a surge of pride every time I thought about it. I even imagined sending “take that” letters to all the medical professionals who suggested I just schedule another C-section.

Of course, a VBAC isn’t for everyone. I’m not a doctor and wouldn’t suggest anyone decide without professional approval. I’m just a mom who wanted to welcome my child on my terms, and I want other moms to know they can do the same.

If you’re looking for more insights, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination at CDC and see how these home insemination kits can help you in your journey. For more tips, don’t forget to explore our other post on intracervical insemination.

Summary: This article provides vital insights for women considering a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). It discusses the potential challenges, the need for advocacy, the surprising factors affecting success rates, and the contrasting recovery experiences. Ultimately, it emphasizes the pride that comes with achieving a VBAC, encouraging other mothers to pursue their desired birthing experience.