Although some doctors will try to discourage it, research shows that 60 percent to 80 percent of women who attempt a trial of labor after a C-section (TOLAC) successfully give birth naturally. Of course, that also means that four out of 10 women were not successful and ultimately had a C-section.
There are some exclusions. A high-risk uterine scar can eliminate you as a candidate for a VBAC. Additionally, some hospitals don’t accept VBAC candidates, citing a lack of staff and resources capable of handling an emergency C-section. If you’ve had a uterine rupture during a previous pregnancy, you’re also ruled out, and if you have a vertical incision in the upper part of the uterus (sometimes referred to as a classical incision), you may also be excluded because of fears of a uterine rupture.
There are many advantages of VBAC. Vaginal delivery comes with a shorter recovery time and a shorter stay in the hospital. You will also get a quicker return on stamina and energy than after surgery. Plus, a vaginal birth is less expensive than a c-section.
There are other considerations. Some women feel that a vaginal delivery is important because they want to participate in the birth process. With a birth coach, women can more fully participate in the process.
There are also future considerations to make. If you plan to continue having children, the VBAC will help avoid the risks of multiple cesarean deliveries.