This information is brought to you by Prega News. If you have had a C-section delivery the first time around, it is possible that you have one important question in mind. Is it possible - a vaginal birth after C-section? The answer is, yes. You most certainly can as long as you weigh the risks well before making this important decision. There are several factors that affect Vaginal Birth after C-section. Here is everything that you need to know and understand.

What are the risks of vaginal birth after C-section?

It is possible for women to have a vaginal birth after a C-section. However, there are some risks involved, such as:

• Uterine rupture where there is a chance of the previous C-section incision re-opening.
• There are high chances of complications which can be risky for the baby, sometimes life-threatening.
• Endometritis which leads to swelling and irritation of the uterine wall.
• Injuries to the newborn due to the ruptured uterine wall.

Factors affecting vaginal birth after C-section?

Studies have revealed that 2/3rd of women who have had a previous birth via Caesarean delivery are eligible for vaginal birth. However, there are several factors which determine if this is safe for you or not. The factors that you need to consider are as follows:

What type of incision did you have?

When it comes to caesarean delivery, three types of incisions are used:

• Low transverse: this is when the lower part of your uterus is cut from one side to the other.
• Low vertical: This is when a vertical incision is made in the lower section of your uterus.
• The high vertical or classical: This is when the upper part  of your uterus has an up and down cut.

Of all the cuts used, the low transverse cut is most common. If you have had a classical or high vertical cut, it is advised that you do not attempt to have a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After C-Section).

Why did you have a C-section before?

If you are trying to understand can you give birth vaginally after C-section, then the reason for the C-section is very important. In case the C-section was because of a complication with the baby such as an irregular heartbeat or breeched birth, then it is possible for you to have a vaginal birth safely. However, if the reason for your C-section was inadequate dilation of the cervix or if your baby’s head was unable to descend, then opting for a VBAC could be risky.

How is your and your baby’s health?

If there are any complications with your current pregnancy such as an irregular heartbeat, a breeched birth or any other such issues, then choosing a VBAC is not advisable. Even your health is important to know if you can give birth vaginally after a C-section. If you have issues like high blood pressure or diabetes, then the risk in case of a VBAC is higher. Even in these cases, you can switch to C-section during your labor. It is important to have a physician who can perform a c-section to handle your vaginal birth after C-section.

How many C-section deliveries have you had before?

According to the latest guidelines about vaginal birth after C-section, VBAC is only safe as long as you have had just one C-section delivery before. If you have had multiple C-section deliveries in the past, it is not advisable to have a VBAC. In fact, it is quite impossible to find a doctor who would agree to a vaginal birth in this condition.

What are the chances of complications in case of Vaginal Birth After C-section?

The good news is that Vaginal birth after C-section is relatively safe. According to the latest studies published only 1 in 2000 women may have complications in case they opt for a C-section. However, it is best that you consult your doctor and ensure that it is actually safe for you to choose this option. Additionally, the success rates of vaginal birth after C-section is about 60-80 per cent. As long as you have considered all the medical factors, this option is actually more beneficial to women for several reasons.

Why is Vaginal Birth After C-section beneficial?

Once you have checked with your doctor and are sure that you are a suitable candidate for a vaginal birth after C-section, this may be the best option for you after all. You will have a high chance of success as well.

If you must choose VBAC, here are some benefits of opting for this process:

• You do not have to undergo any surgery.
• Blood loss is lesser.
• You are able to recover much faster.
• There are fewer chances of you suffering from any infection.
• You are not at the risk of suffering any injuries to your bowel or bladder.
• You will have fewer problems with any childbirths in the future.

Although the risks are relatively rare, they do exist. So be sure that this process is safe for you before you opt for it.

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