You may have seen the abbreviations VBAC & HBAC. VBAC stands for vaginal birth after cesarean and HBAC stands for homebirth after cesarean.
Both More Common
These terms are being heard more and more as they become more and more common. In 2017 the VBAC rate was 12.8% and in 2018, it was 13.3%. (Dekker, 2024) At this time there is not much research on the risks of repeat cesarean versus a VBAC or HBAC. The biggest risk of either is uterine rupture which can be defined as when the uterus muscle completely separates. (Dekker, 2024)
Talk to Your Doctor
Discussing your options with your healthcare provider will be best to ensure that you deliver your baby in the safest way possible. Every situation is different, so what works for one
person will be different for you. If you determine that a VBAC is the best option for you, you may hear the term TOLAC. This stands for trial of labor after cesarean. This will be the point at which you are in labor after a previous cesarean and aiming for a VBAC.
Plan Ahead
There are many things you can do to prepare for a VBAC. There are specialty childbirth education courses you can take that will specifically prepare you for birth after your cesarean. Taking these along with preparing your body and mindset for labor can be incredibly beneficial. Pelvic floor therapy can be extremely helpful as well throughout your pregnancy and as you prepare for labor. If you are considering a VBAC or HBAC, make sure you have a supportive provider and care team. If your care team does not support you, a VBAC or HBAC can be much harder to achieve.
Do Your Research
Every mother’s preferences will be different, so doing your research can be helpful as well to ensure you have a complete understanding. Having a complete understanding can help clear your mind and help you outline specific goals for your birth. Educating yourself and your birth partner are crucial steps to take when making a decision and creating the birth plan to meet your goals!
Source: Dekker, R. (2024b, April 29). Ebb 113 – the evidence on VBAC. Evidence Based Birth®.
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/ebb-113-the-evidence-on-vbac/
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.
