How to Increase Your Chances of a Successful VBAC
Hope is not naive. VBAC is possible, and in many cases it’s safe and supported by evidence. Below are the things that truly help your body, your nervous system, and your birth plan work together so you feel informed, respected, and steady.
1. Know that VBAC is medically reasonable for many people
According to ACOG, most people with one prior low-transverse cesarean can be offered a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC). That means your body is often considered capable of vaginal birth, and you’re allowed to plan for it.
I want you to hear this clearly: wanting a VBAC does not make you reckless, stubborn, or “difficult.” It means you’re asking for a safe birth that also supports your recovery, your bonding, and your long-term health.
2. Ask clear questions early — and listen to how they’re answered
A supportive provider will speak to you like a decision-maker, not a problem to manage.
Questions to ask
- “Am I a VBAC candidate based on my history?”
- “How do you handle VBAC in this hospital?”
- “If induction becomes necessary, what are the safest options for someone with a prior C-section?”
- “In an urgent situation, what happens here and how fast?”
What supportive sounds like
“Let’s walk through your specific risks and your specific strengths.”
“You have options. I’ll explain each one and you tell me what feels right for you.”
“We can try for VBAC. Here’s how we’d keep you and baby safe.”
If instead you hear pressure, fear language, or “let’s just schedule surgery,” that’s important information.
3. Support your body during labor, not just your cervix
VBAC is not only about dilation. It’s about baby’s position, your ability to rest, and how your body responds to the environment around you.
What actually helps
- Early labor at home where you can rest, eat, and move calmly
- Position changes that create space in the pelvis
- Hands-on comfort and steady reassurance when things intensify
- Gentle reminders to breathe and not rush decisions
Pain relief is allowed
You can absolutely plan for pain relief (like an epidural) and still work toward VBAC. With support, you can continue to adjust your hips and legs in bed so baby keeps moving down.
Needing comfort does not disqualify you. It means you’re human.
4. Protect your voice in the room
You should never feel talked over or rushed into something you don’t understand. My role as your doula is not to give medical advice or make choices for you — my role is to steady the room so you have space to choose.
- “Can you explain the benefits and the risks for me and baby?”
- “What happens if we wait 30 minutes?”
- “Is this policy, or is this medically necessary right now?”
- “I hear you. I’d like a moment to talk it over.”
You are allowed to understand before you agree.
5. Plan for recovery, not just birth
A vaginal birth after a previous cesarean can feel deeply healing — physically and emotionally. But even a “good” birth is still intense on the body.
Line up postpartum support. Rest. Let people take care of you. Your nervous system just did something enormous.
Keep learning. Stay grounded.
These resources were created to help you feel less alone, more prepared, and more in control of your own story.
Evidence, safety, and emotional healing after a cesarean
A gentle, hopeful breakdown of VBAC backed by ACOG and VBAC Link, written for parents who want clarity without fear.
Read “VBAC: What You Should Know and Why Hope Matters”1:1 VBAC support and birth presence
What support actually looks like during labor, how I’m with you in the hospital, and what it means to have someone steady the room so you can speak.
Explore VBAC Support With Eden & EmbraceYou’re allowed to want a different experience this time
You deserve a birth that feels calm, informed, and yours. If you’re preparing for VBAC and you want full support through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, let’s talk.