Why and How to VBAC
As stewards of our bodies and caregivers for our children, God calls us to take decisions like surgical birth seriously. While cesareans do save lives, God’s design for women is meant to be honored whenever and wherever possible.
If you’ve had a cesarean (or more than one!) I encourage you to consider planning for a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) for your next birth.
“Why? How?”
I’m so glad you asked!
Why mamas who have had cesarean births might want to consider a VBAC for their next birth:
👏🏼 generally easier recovery from vaginal birth than cesarean
💊 reduced risk of infection
😊 better gut health for baby due to microbes from vaginal delivery
🤱🏾 typically easier adaptation to breastfeeding
👧🏻 easier to care for older child(ren) following vaginal birth due to easier recovery
💥 reduced risk of placenta abruption/accreta in future pregnancies
❤️🩹 emotional healing from previous birth traumas
👧🏻👧🏼👧🏻👧🏽 fewer obstacles to a large family
I also think it’s important to note that caesareans carry their own set of risks. Those risks, which I will discuss in a later post, should be considered carefully.
HOW VBAC mamas can set themselves up for success:
🥙 eat well and 🚶♀️exercise before and during pregnancy (Brewer’s Diet)
🧔🏻 get hubby on board
🤓 educate yourself on the benefits and risks of *both* VBAC and repeat cesarean
👩🏽⚕️ find a midwife/OB who not only “allows” VBACs, but believes in them
👩🏻🏫 take a solid birth class (AHEM 🙋🏻♀️)
🤰🏼consider hiring a doula who is trained and/or experienced in VBAC support
What else?! VBAC mamas, put your suggestions in the comments.
Curious mamas, ask all the questions!!
