What Is a VBAC? Everything You Need to Know About Vaginal Birth After Caesarean

Everything You Need to Know About Vaginal Birth After Caesarean

For women, the birth of a child is much more than a medical event. It is a sacred rite of passage. And for those who have previously had a caesarean, deciding how to birth their next child can feel both daunting and deeply emotional.

You may have heard the term VBAC. It stands for Vaginal Birth After Caesarean. But what does that really mean? What are the risks? What are the possibilities? And is it right for you?

This article gently explores the facts and the feelings around VBAC, especially for women who value natural birth, personal choice, and a spiritual approach to labour and motherhood.

What is a VBAC?

A VBAC is when a woman gives birth vaginally after previously having a caesarean section. For many years, there was a belief in the medical world that if a woman had one caesarean, all future births must be caesareans too. Today, we know that is not always the case. In fact, many women are able to have a vaginal birth after caesarean, safely and successfully.

Why consider a vaginal birth after caesarean?

There are many reasons a woman may choose to pursue a VBAC.

Some see it as a way to heal after a previous birth experience that felt rushed, clinical or outside their control. Others want a quicker recovery than surgery allows. Some want to reduce risks in future pregnancies. Others feel a deep desire to experience birth as a natural, intuitive process guided by their own body and spirit.

VBAC can be an empowering choice. It offers women a chance to reconnect with their body’s wisdom and experience birth in a way that feels more present, more grounded, and more whole.

Is VBAC safe?

For many women, yes. The NHS reports that around three in four women who try for a VBAC will have a successful vaginal birth. However, there are risks to consider, such as the small chance of uterine rupture. This is rare but important to understand.

The type of incision used in your previous caesarean matters. A low transverse cut, which is the most common type, usually makes VBAC a safer option. If your caesarean involved a vertical or classical incision, your care provider may advise against VBAC.

That said, each woman is different. Your age, health, pregnancy, and personal history all play a role. The key is working with professionals who support you, inform you, and treat you with respect.

Who can have a VBAC?

You may be a good candidate for a VBAC if:

• Your previous caesarean involved a low transverse incision

• You are pregnant with one baby

• Your pregnancy is healthy and free of complications

• You go into labour naturally and it progresses well

  
  

Even if you have had more than one caesarean, VBAC might still be possible. A supportive midwife or consultant can help you weigh the risks and make an informed decision.

Why does this matter?

Because how we birth matters.

Birth is not only physical. It is emotional, psychological, and spiritual. It is a moment of transformation that stays with us for life. When women are trusted and supported, they birth with power and presence. They feel seen, heard, and respected.

Choosing VBAC is not about proving something. It is about tuning in to your body, your baby, and your inner voice. That voice may whisper, I want to try. I believe I can.

Spiritual and emotional reflections

Choosing a vaginal birth after caesarean can bring up many emotions. Hope, fear, uncertainty, courage. All are welcome.

You may wish to reflect on your first birth. What felt good? What felt out of your hands? Some women find it healing to talk it through with a doula, therapist, or trusted friend.

Others connect through guided visualisations or meditations that focus on trust, surrender, and opening. You might create a birth altar, write a birth intention, or simply sit in silence and listen to what your body is saying.

You are not broken. You are not less of a mother because your last birth was a caesarean. This birth is not a test. It is a new chapter.

Preparing for a VBAC

If you are considering a VBAC, here are some ways to prepare:

• Choose a supportive birth team. Ask how they feel about VBAC and how often they attend them.

• Learn from other women who have had VBACs. Their stories can encourage and inspire you.

• Understand the local hospital’s policies, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or make your preferences known.

• Create a birth plan that reflects your hopes and values, while staying open to the unknown.

• Attend classes or workshops that centre around natural birth, calm birth, or spiritual birthing practices.

  
  

You are allowed to take up space. You are allowed to ask for what you need. You are allowed to change your mind.

Your body. Your baby. Your choice.

There is no one perfect way to give birth. What matters most is that you feel safe, respected, and at peace with the path you choose.

Whether that path leads to another caesarean or to a vaginal birth, your voice matters. Your intuition matters. And your experience of birth deserves to be honoured.

VBAC is not just a medical option. It is a possibility. A doorway into deeper trust, greater healing, and new strength.

If you are wondering whether natural birth after caesarean is possible for you, know this. It is.

You are not starting over. You are starting from a place of wisdom.

And you already carry everything you need.

We at the sacred birth centre are collecting your birth stories. it's time to change the number. Visit Birth Stories to share yours.