VBAC is an acronym which stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC).  

In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention determined the national cesarean section rate to be 32.8% and VBAC rates (2006 report) at 8.5% even though statistics show a VBAC success rate of 60-80%.  In a 2010 American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) practice bulletin, it was concluded that a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) is a safe and appropriate option for most women who desire a VBAC.  When you have had a previous cesarean birth you have two choices for how to give birth again: elective repeat cesarean birth or a planned vaginal birth. There are risks and benefits to both choices and only you can decide which type of birth is best for you and your family.  

Benefits of VBAC include:  No surgery Shorter recovery period Less risk of infection Less blood loss Benefit to future deliveries as complications increase with each additional cesarean Risks of VBAC include:  Need for repeat cesarean birth Complications of cesarean birth Uterine rupture (0.7 – 0.9% incidence) If you are interested in your options for VBAC with The Birth Center of St. Pete, please contact the office to arrange for a consultation with a midwife. Together you will review your previous pregnancy(ies) and birth(s), and discuss your options for an out of hospital VBAC.  For more information on VBAC:  ICAN  ICAN of Tampa  CDC Report  Cesarean Rates  ACOG Practice Bulletin: Vaginal Birth After Previous Cesarean Delivery