03/25/2026
Are VBACs safe? Research says yes, for most people they are.
Desiring a VBAC is a very reasonable and healthy request for the majory of c-section parents.
One of the most important factors in having a VBAC vs a repeat c-section is the midwife or doctor you work with.
Many practices will say, "Sure, we do VBACs." But when it actually comes down to it, it turns out they're simply tolerant and won't necessarily support you in a VBAC. Many parents feel like they experienced a bait and switch - being told their provider "allows" VBACs only to later learn they won't do anything to truly support or help.
How do you know if a provider is tolerant vs truly VBAC friendly? A lot of it comes down to how they talk about your birth wishes.
🚨 What is said:
“We’ll see how things go.”
What it might mean:
There may be a low threshold for repeat cesarean if anything deviates from “ideal.”
🚨 What is said:
“We don’t like you going past 39 weeks.”
What it might mean:
Strict timelines may limit your opportunity for spontaneous labor.
🚨 What is said:
“We’ll need continuous monitoring and an IV.”
What it might mean:
Routine interventions may limit movement and physiologic labor support.
🚨 If labor doesn’t progress, we’ll do a C-section.”
What it might mean:
Standard labor timelines may be applied without flexibility for VBAC.
A VBAC friendly provider also gives realistic benefit vs risk information about VBAC AND repeat c-sections. A c-section is a major abdominal surgery. It is not without short and long term risks. It is very reasonable to weight the benefits and risks of VBACs to a repeat for YOUR specific circumstances.
Have you found a VBAC friendly provider?
