Preparing for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Nearly 30% of babies in the United States are delivered by cesarean section (the World Health Organization estimates
that it should be more like 11%). More and more women who have experienced cesareans are planning VBACs
(vaginal birth after cesarean) with their subsequent pregnancies. The good news is that VBAC is safe for mother
and child, with an easier postpartum recovery and less time in the hospital; the bad news is that it is still difficult for
mothers to find the support and education they need.
Being surrounded by supportive, confident people, from your partner to your care provider, is essential in labor and
childbirth in all cases, and especially so when you are planning a VBAC. You can do it!
A private VBAC Preparation consultation will include:
• The first birth: what happened, whether it is likely to repeat, what can be
done to avoid the same problems
• Overcoming emotional and physical hurdles
• What the risks really are---and are not--and why VBAC is good for mom and baby
• How to increase the odds in your favor
• Choosing a truly supportive doctor or midwife
• Using relaxation techniques, deep breathing, positions, rituals and focus to relieve
anxieties and cope with labor pain