Vaginal Birth after Caesarean (VBAC)

Abstract

The rising rate of caesarean section has implications in the reproductive performance of a woman and increases the likelihood of complications during repeat operations, whether they are planned or performed on an emergency basis. A successful vaginal delivery after caesarean is associated with increased maternal satisfaction, reduced caesarean section rate, and appears to be cost effective. There is a need for careful selection of women that are willing to attempt vaginal birth after caesarean with a clear set of local protocols to increase overall success rate, reduce litigation and improve neonatal outcome. The benefits and risks of planned vaginal birth after caesarean and elective repeat caesarean section should be discussed in detail with the woman during antenatal care and reemphasized at admission to the labour ward. A decision to embark on VBAC should be free from coercion with full informed consent as the bedrock for such a decision. Facilities offering vaginal birth in women with prior caesarean delivery should be equipped with 24-hour standby emergency caesarean section capability. The intrapartum care should be carefully tailored to meet the woman’s need with support from the health care team. Every obstetrics unit should debrief women after delivery irrespective of the outcome and should conduct regular audits to improve the care of women with previous caesarean sections.