Making the VBAC Choice with the Right Birth Centre

Becoming a mother for the second time is just as special as the first. Even though you’re experiencing pregnancy again, you might want to approach things a bit differently this time, especially if you’ve had a c-section before. You’re likely considering trying for normal delivery after c-section this time around.

It’s perfectly natural to have a lot of questions and concerns. You might be wondering, “Is there any risk with choosing a vaginal birth after c-section (VBAC)?” “How will it affect my baby’s health?” “What will the process be like?” “Which maternity centre should I choose?” and so on.

Choosing the right maternity centre can help address all these doubts. The healthcare professionals there, doctors, midwives, and nurses, will be with you every step of the way, from your prenatal care to delivery and postpartum support.

Understanding VBAC: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean

Before delving into the intricacies of selecting a birth centre, it’s essential to understand VBAC. Vaginal Birth After Cesarean or C-Section (VBAC) refers to delivering a baby vaginally after a previous caesarean delivery. Many women opt for VBAC due to shorter recovery times, reduced surgical risks, and the desire for a normal birth experience.

However, not all birth centres or hospitals support VBAC due to perceived risks, lack of resources, or institutional policies. Hence, for women considering VBAC, the choice of birth centre becomes even more critical.

What to Look for in a Birth Centre

VBAC Support: Do They Have Your Back?

• Policies: Some birth centres are more VBAC-friendly than others. Don’t hesitate to ask: “Do you support VBACs? What are the policies?” You deserve a clear answer.

• Success Rates: It’s also good to ask about their VBAC success rates. High numbers can give you a sense of how experienced and supportive they are.

Staff Expertise and Experience

• Trained Professionals: Ensure that the obstetricians, midwives, and nurses are experienced in handling VBACs. Their expertise can significantly influence the outcome.

Personalised Care and Support

• Birth Plans: Does the centre support personalised birth plans? Flexibility can make the birthing experience more comfortable and in line with your preferences.

• Staff Support: Many centres provide essential support through experienced midwives and nurses, who offer professional care and assistance throughout labour. In addition to their services, some midwifery centres also allow or offer doula support, which provides additional emotional and physical support during the birthing process. The team’s support at every step during the process is extremely essential for a smooth birthing experience.

The Right Atmosphere: Feel at Home

• Comfortable Setting: The birth centre’s environment can really set the tone for your birth experience. Some centres offer home-like settings, while others are more clinical. What makes you feel most comfortable?

• Preconception Counselling: Consider whether the centre provides preconception counselling to help you prepare physically and mentally for pregnancy. This can include guidance on nutrition, health assessments, and addressing any concerns before conception.

• Postpartum Care: Think about what happens after the baby arrives. Does the centre offer good postpartum support, like help with breastfeeding and recovery?

Emergency Preparedness

• On-Site Facilities: While we hope everything goes smoothly, it’s important that the birth centre can handle emergencies. Know about their surgical facilities. In case of a sudden need for a caesarean section or other surgical interventions, having an operating room readily available is crucial. This ensures that any necessary surgical procedures can be carried out without delay, which can be vital for both the mother’s and the baby’s health.

Your birthing experience is unique, and finding the right place to welcome your baby into the world is a big part of that journey. At Aastrika Midwifery Centre, we are dedicated to supporting you through a successful VBAC delivery. Our midwifery birth centre in Bangalore is equipped with facilities having the latest medical resources and experienced professionals to ensure a safe and empowering birthing experience. We understand that each mother’s choice matters the most, and we are here to provide the care and support you need to make your birth experience everything you hope it to be.

So take your time, ask lots of questions, and choose a birth centre that truly supports you and your birth plan.