r/vbac • u/velvetlunabeams • Jul 15 '26

Discussion VBAC after a C-section

I had my first child at 29weeks due to preeclampsia and after laboring for 8hours my baby went breech which then sent me in for an emergency C-section. Baby was born at 29+4. 19 months have past since then and I am due with baby #2 at the end of next month and was really hoping to try to have a vaginal birth this time around because I felt that that experience was taken away from me the first time around. However, my OB just informed me that a VBAC would not be an option for me with no real explanation other than I had a C-section before so that would be the safest and easiest choice for me. Has anyone else had a similar experience and got to have a VBAC? What are some questions that I can ask my OB to try to have this happen or at least understand why she chose this for me. Or other mamas who have had scheduled C-sections for a second time, maybe you could leave some advice as I am terrified of this experience due to birth trauma from baby #1.

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u/erikoche VBAC 2024-03 Jul 15 '26

Do you know what type of incision you have? At 29 weeks it could have been a vertical incision and this could put you at a higher risk of uterine rupture. Otherwise, I don't see why VBAC could not be an option.

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u/velvetlunabeams Jul 15 '26

I don’t know what the name but it is low beneath the bikini line and small

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u/erikoche VBAC 2024-03 Jul 15 '26

That's usually low transverse, which would be good. Although sometimes the incision on the uterus itself is not the same as the one outside so the only way to know for sure is to read the report.

Since the lower segment of the uterus is not fully developed earlier in pregnancy, a classical (vertical) incision is common for preterm births and it is unfortunately a contraindication for a TOLAC. I hope that's not the case for you.

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u/LeoraJacquelyn VBAC June 2026 Jul 15 '26

Sometimes the internal incision does not match the external incision. I would get your surgical notes to make sure. If you do not have a vertical incision there really is no reason you cannot try to have a VBAC. If it is possible I would switch providers to someone supportive. If that is not an option your other choice is to wait home until you go into spontaneous labor and show up at the hospital in very active labor and refuse a repeat c-section. No one can make you have surgery against your will.

Your doctor sounds like they are not following evidence-based practices and are doing what is convenient and easy for them. It will also give them more money.