Vaginal Birth After Cesarean or VBAC has been a highly controversial topic for the past few years. But not any longer.
World-wide studies are showing that not only is vaginal birth after a cesarean safe, but successful. A study released in summer 2013 from King Abdullah University Hospital in Jordan, reported among 207 women, 117 or 57% achieved a successful VBAC. Parity of ≥ 2 was significantly associated with increased odds of success (OR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.2, 6.2). Compared with women who had no previous VBAC, those with previous VBAC had higher odds of success (OR = 3.8 (95% CI: 1.5, 9.5). We concluded that women with a previous cesarean section who achieved a cervical dilatation of ≥ 7 cm before caesarean, had a previous history of successful VBAC and had parity of ≥ 2, have the greatest likelihood of successful VBAC. (Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 2013 July 33(5):474-8.)
Another study, this one from New Zealand, showed a 73% VBAC rate between 2008-2009. Increasing parity increased the chances of another vaginal delivery. Variables that lead to a failed VBAC included BMI=25 in women of single parity, labor augmentation and epidural anesthesia. (New Zealand Medical Journal 2013 Sept 27; 126(1383): 49-57).
Most recently (November 2013), a study from the UK shows of 143,970 women in the cohort, just over half of the women with a primary cesarean who were eligible for a TOLAC attempted a VBAC. Of those, almost 66% achieved a successful vaginal delivery. (British Journal of Obstetrics/Gynecology doi: 10.1111/1471-0528.12508).
How can women wisely choose VBAC? First and foremost, women need to choose both a careprovider and hospital who will support them in their VBAC. The International Cesarean Awareness Network has identified hospitals who do not offer VBAC. To identify whether or not a provider or hospital supports VBAC, call that hospital and then ask for the names of at least three providers. More information about selecting providers and hospitals can be found at the website VBAC.com. On that website, author and VBAC researcher Nicette Jukelevics also gives an extensive list of resources for those wanting additional information on VBAC. You may also utilize the VBAC Finder here
What does all of this say? It says that the research is there. The evidence is speaking. Expectant mothers need to have this education available to them in whatever source of media they use – childbirth education classes, online : blogs and websites, and social media.
Are you aware of the new video set for 2015 release about VBAC? View the trailer below and then be sure to visit www.themamasherpas.com for additional information!
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