TRANSCRIPT
Dr. McGuire
You may be familiar with the term “Cesarean section,” or “C-section.” A C-section is when your baby is delivered by your provider through an incision in your abdomen and uterus. This procedure is used when a vaginal birth is not possible.
Many babies in the U.S. are delivered by Cesarean section. At one time, it was believed that once you had a C-section, all of your future children had to be delivered that way. Providers were concerned that your uterus might have been weakened by the first procedure. Today, women are encouraged to try for a vaginal birth after previously having a C-section. This is called a VBAC, or vaginal birth after Cesarean.
If you’ve had a C-section, your healthcare team will review the records of your previous labors in order to determine if a VBAC is recommended for you. Your provider will be happy to give you more information about this option and about the potential risks of VBAC.