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VBAC or Repeat C-SectionWhy is the decision between VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) and repeat c-section important? Why do I hear conflicting information about VBAC vs repeat c-section? How can this website help you learn about, decide on and plan for a VBAC or a repeat c-section? Why is the decision between VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) and repeat c-section important?If you have had one or more cesareans, your decision about whether to plan a VBAC ("vee-back") or a repeat cesarean section can have far-reaching consequences for you, your baby, and any future pregnancies. You will want to become well-informed about VBAC, understand the trade-offs between VBAC and repeat cesarean, and weigh your own values and concerns so that you can come to a decision that is best for you. Once you reach a decision about VBAC delivery or cesarean delivery, careful planning can help you reach your goals.Unfortunately, a growing number of hospitals and doctors, fearing lawsuits, do not allow you to weigh the facts, consider your preferences and choose for yourself regarding VBAC and planned repeat cesarean. If you wish to use their services, you must accept surgical delivery. Your best approach is to become informed and clarify your goals well in advance and then seek care that is in line with your preferences and birth plan. Why do I hear conflicting information about VBAC vs repeat c-section?During much of the last century, a woman who had a cesarean section almost always had a planned repeat c-section and not a VBAC for any births that followed. Doctors were concerned that the scar from the past cut in the uterus could open during labor (uterine rupture), and cause serious complications for mother or infant.During the last quarter century, however, many health professionals, advocates, pregnant women, policy makers and researchers encouraged vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) in light of:
Now the pendulum is swinging back from vaginal birth after delivery, with new calls for routine repeat c-sections. This reversal leaves many women with cesarean scars struggling to make sense of conflicting, incomplete, and sometimes misleading information about the safety of VBAC vs. repeat c-section and about what birth plan to make this time around. How can this website help you learn about, decide on and plan for a VBAC or a repeat c-section?This section of the website provides reliable information and support to help you understand the issues surrounding planned VBAC vs. planned repeat cesarean. In it, you will find:
Most recent page update: 12/14/2006
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