About Vaginal Birth After Cesarean
Key Highlights
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Avoids major abdominal surgery and its associated risks.Typically results in a shorter hospital stay and faster physical recovery.Lowers the risk of complications in future pregnancies compared to multiple C-sections.Allows for immediate bonding and easier initiation of breastfeeding.Can provide a positive, empowering birth experience for the mother.
Who is this surgery for?
- Patient with one previous low-transverse cesarean section.
- No recurring indication for a cesarean (e.g., the prior reason was breech presentation).
- Adequate pelvis size and favorable fetal position (e.g., head-down).
- Spontaneous onset of labor or successful labor induction under strict protocols.
- Patient desire for a vaginal delivery and informed consent after counseling.
- Availability of continuous electronic fetal monitoring and immediate surgical backup.
How to prepare
- Detailed prenatal counseling to discuss VBAC success rates, benefits, and risks.
- Review of prior surgical records to confirm the type of uterine incision.
- Regular prenatal check-ups to monitor fetal growth and maternal health.
- Development of a detailed birth plan in consultation with the obstetrician.
- Arrival at the hospital at the onset of active labor for continuous monitoring.
- Establishment of intravenous (IV) access for fluids and emergency medication.
Risks & possible complications
- Uterine rupture: The most serious risk, where the old scar tears during labor.
- Need for an emergency cesarean section if labor does not progress or complications arise.
- Increased risk of infection compared to a planned repeat C-section.
- Risk of blood loss (hemorrhage).
- Potential for injury to the bladder or other organs (rare).
- Risk to the baby, including oxygen deprivation if uterine rupture occurs.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Immediate postpartum monitoring for signs of hemorrhage or infection.
- Typically shorter hospital stay (1-3 days) compared to a C-section.
- Faster return to normal activities, with less postpartum pain.
- Encouragement of early ambulation to promote circulation and healing.
- Standard postpartum care for vaginal delivery, including perineal care if needed.
- Follow-up appointment with the obstetrician to ensure proper healing.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-3 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering vaginal birth after cesarean in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for vaginal birth after cesarean in India include Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform vaginal birth after cesarean. MediFyr helps you compare obstetrics and gynaecologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for vaginal birth after cesarean compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated obstetrics and gynaecology teams and experience managing patients undergoing vaginal birth after cesarean.
Patient Name: Emma Singh. Age: 32...
Patient Name: Emma Singh. Age: 32. Background: A graphic designer, married, mother to a 3-year-old son delivered via emergency C-section due to fetal distress. History: Her first birth left her feeling disconnected and disappointed, as she had hoped for a vaginal delivery. She is now 39 weeks pregnant with her second child and is determined to explore a VBAC. Symptoms/History: Healthy, low-risk pregnancy with a favorable cervix. The previous C-section was a low transverse incision, making her a good VBAC candidate. Doctor Recommendation: Her OB/GYN, after reviewing her history and current pregnancy, fully supported a Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC), noting her high chance of successful VBAC. Treatment Experience: Emma went into spontaneous labor at 40 weeks. She labored for 12 hours with epidural pain management. Progress was steady, and she pushed for 45 minutes. The delivery was supported by a midwife and her OB, who monitored her closely for any signs of uterine rupture (which did not occur). Post-Procedure Recovery Outcome: She delivered a healthy baby girl vaginally. Recovery was significantly faster than her C-section; she was walking within hours, experienced less pain, and was discharged home after two days. Emotional Journey: Before, Emma felt anxious but empowered, hoping to heal from her previous birth trauma. After, she felt an immense sense of accomplishment, closure, and a powerful connection to her body and her new daughter, describing the experience as profoundly healing.
Obstetrics and Gynaecologists for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean
Explore experienced obstetrics and gynaecologists who regularly perform vaginal birth after cesarean and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 29 Years Experience
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Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
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Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 26 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 30 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore