Birthing options after a caesarean section

If you have had a vaginal birth, either before or after your Caesarean section, you can have another vaginal birth. Two out of three women who plan a VBAC at National Women's will have a vaginal birth.

Some factors that make a successful vaginal birth include:

• previous vaginal birth
• labour starting naturally before 41 weeks gestation
• your body mass index (BMI) is less than 30
• being under 35 years old
• limiting your weight gain during pregnancy.

VBAC is normally an option for most women. It is not recommended when:

• you have had three or more caesarean deliveries
• your uterus ruptured during a previous birth
• one of your previous caesarean deliveries was a 'classical' (where the incision involved the upper part of your uterus)
• you have other pregnancy complications that required a planned caesarean
• you have had uterine surgery and have been advised not to be in labour.

A successful vaginal birth has fewer complications than an elective repeat caesarean section. If you choose to have a VBAC, advantages include:

• a higher chance of vaginal birth in future pregnancies
• faster recovery time
• shorter hospital stay
• a higher chance of skin-to-skin contact with your pēpi immediately after birth
• less drugs in the system so breastfeeding can be established more quickly
• avoiding the risks of an operation such as blood loss or risk of infection
• less chance of your pēpi having difficulties such as breathing.

You will be encouraged to have a vaginal birth after caesarean, but some women will be advised to have a caesarean for their next pregnancy.

The advantages of having an ERCS include:

• smaller risk of uterine scar rupture
• avoids the risk of labour and the rare risks it causes to your pēpi
• tubal ligation can be done at the same time as a caesarean if you want permanent contraception.