How to Plan for a Confident and Empowering VBAC

Photo Credit: Erin Heuser Photography

Are you thinking about having a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) but aren’t sure where to start? You’re not alone! Many families feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty when preparing for a VBAC. Whether you’re eager to avoid another cesarean or simply want a different birth experience, preparation is key to achieving the birth you envision.

The great news? A successful VBAC is absolutely possible with the right mindset, preparation, and support. Let’s dive into some practical steps to help you feel confident and ready for your VBAC journey.

1. Find the Right Provider and Birth Location

Choosing the right healthcare provider and birth location is probably the most important step in preparing for a VBAC. Not every provider or hospital is equally supportive of VBACs—and their attitudes can have a big impact on your birth experience.

When interviewing potential providers, ask questions like:

• “What is your VBAC success rate?”

• “How do you typically support VBAC clients during labor?”

• “What policies or restrictions should I be aware of at this hospital or birth center?”

Pay attention to their answers! If you hear responses like, “We’ll let you try,” or notice hesitation, it might mean they’re not as VBAC-friendly as you’d like. You deserve a provider who believes in your ability to have a VBAC and is fully committed to supporting you.

The birth location matters too. Some hospitals have policies that make VBACs unnecessarily complicated (like requiring constant monitoring or limiting how long labor can last). Do some research, and don’t be afraid to ask direct questions about VBAC policies before committing to a location.

2. Educate Yourself About VBAC

You’ve heard the saying, “Knowledge is power,” right? It’s so true when it comes to VBAC preparation. Understanding the benefits, risks, and process of VBAC can help you feel more in control and confident in your decisions.

Start by learning about:

• Factors that affect VBAC success, like your overall health, baby’s position, and the type of uterine incision from your previous cesarean.

• Common myths about VBAC, so you can separate fact from fiction.

• How to navigate interventions, like inductions or epidurals, and how they might impact your VBAC goals.

If you want to dive deeper, consider taking a VBAC-focused childbirth education class like this one through the VBAC Link. This class is designed specifically for families in your shoes and can give you the tools you need to make informed, empowered decisions.

3. Build Your Dream Birth Team

Who you have by your side during pregnancy and labor can make a huge difference in your VBAC experience. You’ll want to surround yourself with people who fully believe in you and your ability to have a successful VBAC.

Hiring a doula with VBAC experience is one of the best decisions you can make. Doulas provide physical, emotional, and informational support, helping you navigate every step of labor. Studies have shown that having a doula can lead to shorter labors, fewer interventions, and higher satisfaction—what’s not to love?

And don’t forget about your partner or other loved ones. Make sure they’re on the same page with your goals and understand how to support you during labor. When everyone is working together, it creates a positive and encouraging environment for your birth.

4. Get Your Body Ready for Birth

Preparing your body for labor is just as important as preparing your mind. Staying active during pregnancy helps build strength and endurance for the big day. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all fantastic options.

Another great tool? Body balancing exercises (like those taught in the Body Ready Method). These exercises can help ensure your baby is in the best position for birth by aligning your pelvis and relaxing tight ligaments. When your baby is well-positioned, labor tends to go more smoothly—so it’s worth the effort!

5. Know Your Options (and Your Rights)

Here’s a little secret: You have the right to make decisions about your care—always. This is especially important during a VBAC, as you may encounter providers who recommend interventions that don’t align with your birth plan.

Take some time to learn about common interventions, like induction methods or continuous fetal monitoring. Understanding their pros and cons will help you feel more confident about saying “yes” or “no” based on what’s best for you and your baby.

6. Prepare Your Mindset

Birth isn’t just a physical experience—it’s emotional, too. Preparing your mindset can help you feel calm and confident as you approach labor.

If your previous cesarean left you with feelings of disappointment or trauma, it’s okay to take time to process those emotions. Talking to a therapist, joining a VBAC support group, or journaling can be incredibly healing.

Positive affirmations and visualization exercises can also help shift your mindset. Picture yourself having a peaceful, empowering birth. Remind yourself of truths like, “My body is strong and capable” or “Each contraction brings my baby closer to me.”

7. Learn About Baby’s Position and Labor Progress

Did you know your baby’s position plays a big role in how labor progresses? Understanding a little about this can help you work with your body during labor.

For example, if your baby is in an optimal position (like head-down and facing your back), labor is usually more efficient. But if they’re facing your front (called “posterior”), it can make labor longer or more uncomfortable.

Your doula or provider can show you labor positions and movements that encourage your baby to move into the best position. Think lunges, hands-and-knees, or using a birth ball. Small adjustments can make a big difference!

8. Talk About Monitoring During Labor

VBAC labors are often monitored more closely than first-time vaginal births, but that doesn’t mean you have to be hooked up to machines the whole time.

Intermittent monitoring is a great option that allows you to move freely while still keeping an eye on your baby’s well-being. Talk to your provider ahead of time about what kind of monitoring they recommend and why.

The Bottom Line

Preparing for a VBAC can feel like a big task, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right provider, a strong support team, and a little preparation, you can set yourself up for a safe, empowering, and joyful birth experience.

Looking for personalized VBAC support? At the Beloved Birth & Beyond Collective, we specialize in providing individualized care to help families like yours feel confident and supported. Contact us today to learn how we can walk alongside you on your VBAC journey!