Vaginal birth after cesarean  VBAC is safe for many women who have undergone cesarean deliveries. For most women VBAC is an option. However it is not for everyone. Certain factors may prevent some women from having this procedure.

Who qualifies for VBAC

You may be a good candidate for this procedure if :

• the reason for your prior cesarean is not repeated this time
• you had a low transverse incision which means  the cut was from side to side on the lower abdomen
• you and your baby are healthy with no medical problems
• your labor begins naturally on or before  your due date
• the baby is normal size
• the baby is head down
• you’ve had a previous successful vaginal delivery

What are the benefits of VBAC

Women who attempt VBAC do it for the following benefits

• shorter recovery time than cesarean delivery
• no surgery required
• reduced risk of infection, blood loss or other complications
• if you are planning on a larger family, it  will avoid the risk of multiple cesarean deliveries

What are the risks involved with VBAC ?

It  may pose the following risks

• failed attempt at labor which will result in a cesarean  delivery
• uterine rapture . This is when the uterus tears open along the scar line from a previous c-section. However this is rare.

Who should not have a VBAC

You do not qualify for a vaginal delivery after cesarean if :

• your c-section was not done by a low transverse incision
• you are carrying multiples
• have medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, genital herpes or heart disease
• you have placental problems such as placenta previa
• have had two or more cesarean deliveries but never had a vaginal birth
• your baby is large
• you are past your due date