In 2022 I had our first baby via C-section. I’m a little over 20 weeks with our second child and the type of delivery I want to have is now a topic of conversation both with my OB and with my gal pals.

When it comes to this decision, you should always consult your doctor and talk with them about the safest option for you, but here are a few considerations I am making in my decision. Keep reading to find out what my decision is!

• Type of incision plays a role in if you are a VBAC candidate. Most incisions are made transversely now, which means a better chance for a VBAC.
• Why you needed a c- section previously also plays a role. For me, labor stalled around 8cm dilated. This is more likely to happen again with a second delivery. If you had a c- section because baby was breech that obviously may not happen the second time around.
• If you need to be induced for a VBAC, the chances of uterine rupture go up. If you go into labor naturally a VBAC may be an option.
• Consider what you feel comfortable with. In my case, my OB let me know I would probably have a 50/50 shot at a successful VBAC given my medical history and past labor experience. Being in labor for 24 hours only to end up in a c- section was exhausting and not something I want to repeat, so I’m current planning for a repeat c- section. By scheduling this delivery I’ll be able to go in “rested” and my body will only need to recover from surgery, not the long labor experience this time around.

There are other factors that can come into play when considering a VBAC such as medical history, baby’s health, and more. It is not a one size fits all decision and should be discussed in detail with your provider. There are also VBAC calculators available online that can give you a really rough estimate of your chances of a successful VBAC and they can be helpful for starting a conversation with your provider.

Did you schedule a repeat c- section or try for a VBAC and what was your experience? Drop us some details in the comments!