Considering a VBAC? What You Need to Know to Decide with Confidence
- Posted on: Jun 26 2025
If you’ve had a previous C-section, you might be wondering:
“Can I try for a vaginal birth this time?” For many women, the answer is yes. At Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology in Fort Worth and Granbury, TX, we’re here to help you explore your birth options, including Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). This can be a safe and empowering choice—when the circumstances are right.
What Is VBAC?
VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. Instead of planning a repeat C-section, you go into labor and attempt a vaginal birth. This process is called a Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC). If your labor progresses safely and without complications, it can lead to a successful VBAC.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Not every woman is eligible for a VBAC—but many are. You might be a candidate if:
- You’ve had one or two previous low-transverse C-sections (the most common type)
- You have no history of uterine rupture or major uterine surgery
- Your current pregnancy is low-risk
- Your provider has access to immediate emergency care if needed
At Grace, we carefully review your full medical and surgical history to help determine if VBAC is a safe option for you.
Why Some Women Choose VBAC
VBAC offers several potential benefits, including:
- Faster recovery
Most women who deliver vaginally go home sooner and bounce back more quickly than after surgery. - Lower risk of surgical complications
VBAC avoids risks like infection, blood clots, and anesthesia-related issues. - Healthier future pregnancies
Each C-section increases the risk of placenta problems in future pregnancies. A successful VBAC can help reduce these risks. - A sense of empowerment
For many women, being able to experience a vaginal birth—especially after a previous C-section—can feel deeply meaningful and healing.
What Are the Risks?
The most talked-about risk with VBAC is uterine rupture, which occurs when the scar from a previous C-section tears during labor. While this is rare—less than 1% of cases—it is serious and requires immediate surgical attention.
That’s why VBAC should only be attempted in hospitals like ours, where skilled obstetric teams and emergency surgical care are always available.
Making the Right Decision for You
Whether you choose VBAC or a planned repeat C-section, the most important thing is having a healthy birth for you and your baby. Our providers at Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology are committed to giving you honest, evidence-based guidance and respectful support throughout your pregnancy and delivery.
No matter your birth history, you deserve care that listens, informs, and empowers. If you’re curious or want to talk through your options, we’re here for you. Let’s find the path that feels right—together.
Have questions about your birth plan? Contact us today:
https://www.graceobgyntx.com/contact/
Further Reading
ACOG- Vaginal Birth After Cesarian Section
Posted in: Babies, Obstetrics, VBAC