More pregnancy myths: no VBAC

Myths persist because they are easy and safe to follow, but also because no one wants to experiment on pregnant women.

VBAC. Vaginal birth after cesarean. Once considered high risk, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) revised its guidelines last year. Doctors weren’t sure but didn’t want to risk it, then insurance companies got involved and increased hospital liability.

2010 study showed low risk

In 2010 the National Institute of Health compiled evidence from over 20,000 women which showed the risks were very low, even for women who had more than one cesarean. Uterine rupture risk is less than 1% for first time VBAC and less than 2% for subsequent VBACs. Risk of maternal death was less than .02%. No increase at all compared to women who went for a second cesarean.

About 70% of women who go for a VBAC are successful. Some factors to consider before making your birth plan are the baby’s predicted weight and position. Of course a mother’s history of birth experience and emotional frame of mind must be considered.

“No one should be coerced into an operation they don’t want,” said Dr. William Grobman, maternal and fetal medicine specialist at Northwestern University in Chicago, co-writer of the new guidelines. While a successful vaginal birth is better for mom and for baby, always talk openly with your doctor before making any decisions. And don’t hold your breath waiting for hospital to change their policies.

Source: LATimes, ACOG

image: detail from "Birth and Dipping of Achilles," late 1700s