Published 9/5/2025
Certified Doula Tayler Morrison shares important insights for moms who have had a past Cesarean.
Plan Ahead
A vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC) can be an exciting plan for your second baby if your first birth was a cesarean. However, you may be wondering where to get started and how to prepare yourself. A good place to start is ensuring your provider is supportive of your choice to have a VBAC . If they are not, it is okay to seek a second opinion and contact other providers. Just because one says no does not mean others will say the same. Having an understanding of why your first pregnancy ended in cesarean is also a great start. Was it because your placenta was covering your cervix, your cervix didn’t dilate in the time frame your provider gave you, etc.? Understanding your first birth is a great place to start, so you can begin preparing for your VBAC.
Mindset is Important
Mindset is important in birth, regardless of how you choose to give birth. Understanding and healing any past traumas from your first birth will be important. If you are going into your second birth scared and nervous, that can hinder your ability to relax and allow your body to do its job for a VBAC. Practicing relaxation techniques throughout your pregnancy is a great way to prepare your mind. A VBAC can be challenging, and having relaxation techniques in your back pocket is a great way to feel calm and confident. Physically, you can also prepare your body by doing simple stretches and light exercise. Ensuring the baby is in the best position possible can help you achieve your VBAC. Spinning Babies is a great resource for helping ensure the baby is in the best position possible and that your body is prepared and strong as well.
Get Support
Having a doula with experience with VBAC moms is also helpful, as she can provide specific resources and information throughout your pregnancy and birth. For example, many providers will not deliver a breech baby vaginally; however, it is very possible as long as they know the correct technique. A doula would be able to help you in this situation with evidence based information and providers who better align with your goals. Overall, preparing yourself mentally and physically is a great start to achieving your goals for not only yourself but your baby as well.
Story by Tayler Morrison for BlueWaterParent.com.
All content of BlueWaterParent.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
