Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) | Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates
Comprehensive women's health, every stage of life
If you’ve had a cesarean delivery in the past, you may be wondering whether a vaginal birth is possible for this pregnancy. For many women, the answer is yes. At Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates, we believe every birth story deserves to be considered on its own terms, and for the right candidates, a vaginal birth after cesarean, or VBAC, can be a safe and deeply empowering option.
We know this decision comes with a lot of questions, and maybe even some worry left over from your last delivery. Our team is here to walk you through the facts honestly and without pressure, so you can decide what feels right for you and your baby. To talk about your options, call our Wellesley office (781) 235-4000. You can also request an appointment online.
What Is a VBAC?
A VBAC is giving birth vaginally after having had a prior cesarean delivery. For decades, once someone had a cesarean the first time, it was standard that they’d always have a cesarean for their following pregnancies, but medical understanding has evolved significantly. Today, we know that many women who have had a cesarean, particularly a single prior cesarean with a low transverse incision, are excellent candidates for a successful vaginal delivery in a subsequent pregnancy.
Choosing to pursue a VBAC is a personal decision made together with your care team, weighing your individual medical history, the reason for your prior cesarean, and your goals for this birth.
Am I a Good Candidate for VBAC?
Every pregnancy and every history is different, and determining candidacy is something we do together, carefully and individually. Some factors may make VBAC riskier or not recommended, such as a prior vertical (classical) uterine incision, a history of uterine rupture, or certain current pregnancy complications. We’ll review your complete history with you honestly, so you understand exactly where you stand.
Generally, factors that make VBAC a safer and more likely successful option include:
- A prior low transverse uterine incision
- No more than one or two prior cesareans, depending on your individual history
- No other uterine surgeries, such as fibroid removal involving the uterine wall
- A healthy, uncomplicated current pregnancy
- Going into labor spontaneously or being a good candidate for induction
What Are the Risks of VBAC?
Like any birth plan, VBAC carries its own considerations. The most significant risk is uterine rupture, a tear along the scar line from your previous cesarean. This is why VBAC candidates are carefully screened, and why labor is closely monitored in a hospital setting equipped to respond quickly if an emergency cesarean becomes necessary.
We take this risk seriously and will make sure you fully understand it, alongside the benefits, so you can make a truly informed decision. Our goal is never to steer you toward one outcome, but to give you the full picture so you can choose confidently.
What Are the Benefits of VBAC?
For candidates who are a good fit, VBAC offers several meaningful benefits:
- A shorter recovery time compared to repeat cesarean surgery
- Lower risk of infection and blood loss
- Avoiding the risks that come with multiple
- Abdominal surgeries over time
- A shorter hospital stay
- For many women, the emotional fulfillment of experiencing a vaginal birth
What Does the VBAC Process Look Like?
If you and your provider decide VBAC is a good option for you, your prenatal care will include ongoing conversations about your progress, your baby’s growth, and your readiness for labor. When the time comes, you’ll labor and deliver in a hospital setting where your care team can monitor both you and your baby closely throughout, with the ability to move quickly to a cesarean if it becomes the safer path. Many of our patients who attempt a VBAC go on to have a successful vaginal delivery, and even those who ultimately need a repeat cesarean often feel proud simply for having had the chance to try.
Why Choose Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates for Your VBAC?
Since 1963, we have been a trusted name in women’s health care, and we bring that same depth of experience to support VBAC patients today. Our providers take the time to review your full obstetric history, answer your questions without judgment, and help you feel genuinely prepared, whichever path your labor takes. We know that a prior cesarean can carry emotional weight, whether that means disappointment, fear, or simply uncertainty about what’s next. Whatever you’re feeling, we’re here to listen, support, and guide you toward the birth experience that’s right for you this time.
Talk Through Your VBAC Options at Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates Today
If you’ve had a prior cesarean and are curious whether a vaginal birth after cesarean could be right for you this pregnancy, we’d love to talk through all of your options. To schedule an appointment in Wellesley, call (781) 235-4000 or request an appointment online. Your history doesn’t have to dictate your future.
VBAC FAQs
How successful are VBAC attempts?
Success rates vary based on individual factors, but many women who are good candidates and attempt a VBAC go on to deliver vaginally. Your provider can give you a more personalized estimate based on your specific history and this pregnancy.
Is VBAC safe?
For appropriately selected candidates, VBAC is considered a safe option and is supported by major medical organizations. The key is careful screening beforehand and close monitoring during labor, both of which our team is fully equipped to provide.
What happens if I go into labor and it’s not progressing well?
If labor isn’t progressing as expected or any concerns arise for you or your baby, your care team is prepared to move quickly to a cesarean delivery. Being in a hospital setting for a VBAC attempt means help is always immediately available.
Can I have a VBAC if I’ve had more than one cesarean?
It depends on your individual history. Some women with two prior cesareans may still be candidates, while others may not be, depending on the type of incisions and overall obstetric history. This is something we’ll evaluate together closely.
Will I need to labor differently for a VBAC?
For the most part, labor with a VBAC looks similar to any other labor, though your care team will monitor you and your baby more closely throughout, and certain interventions like induction methods may be approached a bit differently to reduce risk.