3 VBAC Myths Debunked
When a lot of women think about Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, also known as VBAC, they think about old outdated information that has been passed around in the last decade as the rate of vaginal births after previous cesarean deliveries have dropped drastically.
This trend has been very concerning for most in the childbirth field. From medical professionals to those of us like myself who work as support, or as childbirth educators. For myself, as a mother who has had two previous cesarean sections, one being a long labor trying to have a successful VBAC this has become a passion of mine.
Education is the key to making safe choices in your medical care and childbirth, especially after having a previous cesarean delivery.
More on Babble: 10 Things to Know Before Having a C-Section
Myth : Once a Cesarean, Always a Cesarean.
While this used to be a common myth, the tables have turned with more research being done. The safest option for the majority of women with a previous cesarean delivery is labor, and a vaginal delivery when possible. After one surgical delivery, there are risks in any future pregnancy, but learning and weighing the risks is most important.
Risks of VBAC : Uterine Rupture (0.6%), and failed VBAC leading to another cesarean section (VBAC is estimated to be between 60-80% successful depending on the birth setting).
Risks of a Repeat Cesarean : Infection, increased blood loss, decreased bowel function, Respiratory complications, longer hospital stay, longer recovery time, reactions to anesthesia, the risk of additional surgeries, adhesions, future infertility, increased risk for placenta problems in future pregnancies, complications to the baby, and maternal death.
More on Babble: 10 Things About Pregnancy No One Tells You
Myth : VBAC is illegal.
This is 100% incorrect. Vaginal Birth after Cesarean is legal in all of the United States, even in area's where hospitals have "banned" the procedure. Unfortunately with all the incorrect information out there flying around through rumor and word of mouth, there are a lot of women that think it is not legal.
Myth : VBAC is not an option if you have had more than one previous c-section delivery.
As most have already learned through my journey seeking a VBA2C, also known as a Vaginal Birth after two Cesarean sections, there is a lot of information out there that shows a trial of labor after two previous c-sections is a safe, and viable option for low risk women. In fact in light of recent studies published The American College (Congress) of Obstetricians and Gynecologists better known as ACOG has changed their recommendations for VBAC, and VBA2C to stay they are both a reasonable option for informed women.
For more myths debunked about VBAC, visit Babble.
MORE ON BABBLE:
Giving Birth To Twins: A Real Life Birth Story
Maternity Care In America: Rife With "Systematic Failures"
Do Multiple C-Sections Put You at Risk