5 Questions to Ask Your Provider About VBAC

VBACC-Section

Feb 17

Are you prepared to discuss your VBAC goals with your OBGYN or Midwife?

One of the most important steps in your VBAC preparation is having open and informed conversations with your provider. The questions you ask can help you understand their approach to VBAC, assess whether their philosophy aligns with your goals, and ensure you have the support you need to prepare for the birth your wanting.

This blog will walk you through key questions to ask your OBGYN or Midwife about VBAC. By the end, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to advocate for yourself and your birth plan. And just a heads up, it’s important to start this process ASAP. Don’t wait until the end of your pregnancy.

Asking Your Provider Questions About VBAC Is SO Important

When planning a VBAC, communication with your provider is a non-negotiable. Asking the right questions helps you:

Understand your provider’s true views on VBAC: Not all providers have the same philosophy or experience with VBAC. This can vary based on if the provider is an OBGYN or midwife as well. These questions can clarify where they stand.
Identify red flags early: If your provider’s answers suggest they may not fully support your VBAC it’s better to know sooner rather than later just in case you want or need to switch providers.
Build trust and confidence: Open conversations can create a stronger sense of partnership between you and your provider which can help you feel supported and respected in your VBAC preparation.
Encourage full explanations: Open-ended questions require your provider to explain their reasoning and provide evidence rather than giving a simple yes or no answer. This approach helps you gather more information and ensures that their recommendations are based on sound medical evidence.

Let’s dive into some questions you could ask.

1. What is your experience with VBACs?

Understanding your provider’s level of experience with supporting VBACs can give you insight into their comfort and expertise.

Open-ended Questions to Ask:

Can you tell me about the VBACs you have supported in the past year?
What factors do you consider when determining if someone is a good candidate for VBAC?
How do you support VBAC patients differently than those planning a repeat c-section?
Do the other providers in this practice support VBACs? How would things change if you are not on call during my birth?

A provider with significant VBAC experience is more likely to be familiar with evidence-based practices and supportive of your goals.

2. What are the hospital’s policies on VBAC?

Hospital policies can significantly impact how your birth unfolds. It’s important to understand these policies ahead of time so you can be prepared to advocate if needed.

Open-ended Questions to Ask:

How does this hospital typically support VBAC patients?
What are the hospital’s requirements for monitoring, movement, and overall labor during a VBAC?
Can you share any hospital policies that might affect my VBAC experience?

Knowing the hospital’s policies ensures you can plan accordingly and address any potential challenges in advance. Please remember that hospital policy can be questioned and challenged if something doesn’t feel right to you. You have a right to informed consent and refusal.

Pregnant Woman Talking About VBAC With OBGYN

3. What is your approach to interventions during TOLAC/VBAC?

Understanding your provider’s approach to interventions can help you determine if their philosophy aligns with your desire for a low-intervention VBAC.

Open-ended Questions to Ask:

How do you typically handle a VBAC labor that is progressing slower than you would prefer?
What are your thoughts on intermittent monitoring instead of continuous monitoring for VBAC patients?
Can you walk me through how you decide when interventions like induction or augmentation are necessary?
Do you have any policies regarding epidural use for VBAC? I want to be unmedicated and would like to know in what circumstances we would have time for an epidural/spinal versus having to be put under general anesthesia.

A provider who is open to working with your preferences and birth plan can help you feel more in control and supported during labor.

4. What happens if there are complications?

VBAC is generally safe for most women AND it’s important to discuss how your provider would handle unexpected complications.

Open-ended Questions to Ask:

How do you monitor for signs of uterine rupture and what steps would you take if concerns arise?
What factors would lead you to recommend a repeat c-section during labor?
Can you explain how quickly an emergency c-section can be performed at this hospital?

Understanding how your provider handles emergencies can give you peace of mind and help you feel prepared for any scenario.

5. How can we work together to support my VBAC goals?

This question opens the door to a collaborative relationship with your provider, ensuring that your voice is heard and respected throughout your VBAC journey.

Open-ended Questions to Ask:

How do you feel about doula support for VBAC?
How do you involve your patients in decision-making during labor?
Can we review my birth plan together and discuss any potential concerns you may have?

A provider who values your input and understands that you are the final decision maker can make a significant difference in how supported you feel.

My Personal Experience Interviewing VBAC Providers

When I was preparing for my VBAC I interviewed several different providers including OBGYNs, hospital midwives, and homebirth midwives. I made sure to ask questions based on the type of pregnancy and birth experience I wanted to have. Asking these more detailed, open-ended questions helped me decide which provider was going to be best to support me for my VBAC.

I actually ended up staying with the same OBGYN who performed my c-section. You may hear many people on social media say that this is a bad idea but for me, it was a perfect alignment.

So now what?

If you’re ready to take control of your VBAC journey then download my free VBAC birth plan template. This customizable template will help you:

Clearly outline your goals and preferences.
Facilitate meaningful conversations with your provider.
Advocate for the birth experience you envision.

What Questions Do You Have About VBAC?

Are there specific questions or concerns you’ve discussed with your provider? What has helped you feel more confident in your VBAC journey? I’d love to hear your story and support you along the way.

Keep flowing,
Hannah

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Hannah Gill VBAC Doula and Childbirth Educator

Hey there, I'm Hannah - lover of podcasts, true crime, and dessert.

I’m a childbirth educator, doula, and VBAC mom. After my own birth experiences, I’m on a mission to help moms own their strength, trust their bodies, and take ownership of their births. Whether it’s sharing my own journey or cheering you on in yours, I’m here to help you keep flowing through it all.