VBAC: Empowering Families to Reclaim Their Birth Stories

Choosing a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) is a deeply personal decision, often filled with both hope and uncertainty. For many families, it represents an opportunity to reclaim their birth story, to heal from past experiences, and to trust their bodies again. Yet, despite being a safe and viable option for many, VBACs are often met with fear, misinformation, and even resistance from care providers.

Let’s break down the facts about VBACs, address common misconceptions, and empower families to make informed decisions that honor their needs and wishes.

Why Choose a VBAC?

The reasons for pursuing a VBAC are as unique as each family. Some parents hope to avoid the longer recovery of a repeat cesarean, especially if they have young children at home. Others want the opportunity to experience vaginal birth, to heal emotionally from a past cesarean, or to follow a birth plan that feels more aligned with their values.

For many, a VBAC is about more than just how their baby is born—it’s about reclaiming their autonomy and making choices based on what feels right for their family.

Myths About VBACs

🔸 Myth 1: VBACs Are Too RiskyOne of the most common fears surrounding VBACs is the risk of uterine rupture. While this is a possibility, it’s rare, occurring in less than 1% of VBAC attempts. In fact, for most people, the overall risks of VBAC are similar to those of a first-time vaginal birth.

It’s also important to note that planned repeat cesareans carry their own risks, such as increased complications with future pregnancies, infections, and longer recovery times.

🔸 Myth 2: If You Had a Cesarean, You Can’t Give Birth VaginallyThe phrase “once a cesarean, always a cesarean” has long been debunked. Many factors influence whether a VBAC is a safe option, including the type of incision, the reason for the previous cesarean, and your overall health. With the right support, many families successfully have VBACs every day.

🔸 Myth 3: Hospitals Don’t Allow VBACsWhile it’s true that some hospitals have policies restricting VBACs, this is not universal. Many hospitals and providers support VBACs, and some even specialize in VBAC-friendly care. It may take some research to find the right provider and birthing environment, but options are out there.

How to Prepare for a VBAC

🔹 Educate YourselfKnowledge is power. Learn about the factors that influence VBAC success, such as the length of time since your last cesarean, your overall health, and your baby’s position. Understand the benefits and risks of both VBAC and repeat cesarean so you can make an informed choice.

🔹 Build the Right Support TeamYour care provider plays a crucial role in your VBAC journey. Seek out providers who are experienced with and supportive of VBACs. In addition, having a doula by your side can provide emotional, physical, and informational support throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.

🔹 Create a Flexible Birth PlanA VBAC-friendly birth plan outlines your preferences while remaining adaptable to unexpected changes. Include details about your pain management preferences, comfort measures, and how you’d like to handle any interventions that may arise.

🔹 Trust Your Body and Stay ConnectedYour body is strong and capable. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and encourage you to trust your instincts. Stay connected to your baby, your body, and your inner strength.

The Role of a Doula in VBAC Births

As a doula, I’ve walked alongside families navigating VBACs, and I’ve seen firsthand the power of informed support. My role is to provide encouragement, offer comfort techniques, and ensure you feel heard and respected every step of the way.

VBACs can bring up a range of emotions, especially if past birth experiences involved trauma or disappointment. Having someone there to validate your feelings, advocate for your preferences, and hold space for your journey can make all the difference.

Reclaiming Your Birth Story

VBAC isn’t about proving anything to anyone else—it’s about your journey, your choices, and your family. Whether your VBAC goes exactly as planned or takes an unexpected turn, the most important thing is that you feel empowered, respected, and supported throughout.

If you’re considering a VBAC and want guidance, encouragement, or just someone to listen, I’m here for you. Together, we can explore your options and build a plan that feels right for you and your family.

Birth is as unique as the people experiencing it, and your story deserves to be written on your terms. 💛