If the first baby was a C-section, can the second baby be delivered naturally? (VBAC)

Are you expecting another baby? If your first baby was delivered by cesarean section ( C-section ), you may be wondering, "Will I be able to deliver my baby naturally this time?" This is a big question for many mothers. Having a vaginal birth after a cesarean section is medically known as VBAC (Vaginal Birth After C-section). So, while this is possible for many mothers, there are a few things we need to talk about before deciding if it's right for you and safe.

Sometimes, if someone who is at high risk of complications tries to have a normal birth, it can cause serious, even life-threatening, problems for you and your baby. That's why it's important to discuss the risks with your doctor before making a decision.

How is your health and that of your baby?

To decide if you can try for a VBAC, it's important to make sure that both you and your baby are healthy. If you're healthy, you may be able to try for a VBAC even if you're having twins . But you'll need to get your doctor's approval.

However, in some cases, your doctor may say that attempting a VBAC is too risky. Below are some risk factors that may prevent you from having a successful vaginal birth.

Let's learn about the scars of previous C-section surgery.

One of the most important things you and your doctor should definitely discuss is the nature of your uterine scar . This is very important. Many people think that the scar on the outside of your belly and the scar on the inside of your uterus are the same. However, the incisions can be in different directions. There are two main ways that incisions are made in your abdomen and uterus during a cesarean section:

• Vertical cut: A cut made from top to bottom.
• Transverse cut: A cut made from side to side (across).

So you can see how important it is to know exactly what kind of scar your uterus has.

The hospital you choose is also important!

This is also something you should research in advance. Ask your doctor if the hospital you are planning to have your baby in allows VBAC and if they have the necessary facilities. Not all hospitals allow this.

The reason is that while the risk of rupture of the old scar is low when attempting a VBAC, if it does happen, it is an emergency . The hospital should be prepared to deal with such an emergency. This means that everything needed for an emergency cesarean section, such as operating rooms, anesthesiologists, and blood bank facilities, should be ready at any time. Some hospitals may not have the facilities to deal with such an emergency. Therefore, choosing the hospital is also very important.

Does low risk mean no risk?

No. There is a very small risk of uterine rupture for any healthy mother with a low transverse scar who attempts VBAC. Doctors cannot say with 100% certainty whether this will happen to you or not.

Therefore, it is best to think carefully about your options, talk to your doctor , and make a decision after understanding both the pros and cons.

What are the benefits of a successful VBAC?

Okay, now that we've talked about the downsides, let's look at the benefits of a successful VBAC. If you can afford a VBAC and you want a vaginal birth, there are many good reasons to try it. And the chances of success are high. About 70% of mothers who try a VBAC successfully deliver their baby vaginally. For the rest, complications during labor require a repeat cesarean section.

If you have a successful VBAC, you will receive these benefits:

• You don't have to undergo major surgery.
• Bleeding is minimal.
• You can recover faster than after surgery.
• The risk of infection is low.
• There is a low chance of damage to your bladder or intestines.
• If you are expecting another child in the future, the potential problems during childbirth will be reduced.