How to Decide Between a Repeat C-Section or VBAC

VBACC-Section

Jan 8

Pregnant woman with her husband and toddler

Are you wondering how in the world to decide between a repeat c-section and a VBAC?

This isn’t just a medical decision your provider can make for you. It’s deeply personal, emotional, and even spiritual. Both VBAC and repeat c-sections have risks and benefits and no one else can make the choice that feels right for you and your baby. But the pressure to make the "right" decision can feel like an enormous weight on your shoulders, can’t it?

You’re not alone. Every woman who faces this decision is navigating her own unique mix of hope, fear, and uncertainty. That’s why I do what I do. To help you sit with those feelings, understand your options, and feel confident and supported no matter what you choose. After you get to the end of this blog you’ll have clarity, practical tools, and the empowerment you need to take control of your birth story.

The Emotional Complexity of Choosing Between a VBAC or Repeat C-section

If you’re here reading this you’ve likely already been through one c-section. Whether that experience was planned or a last-minute decision during labor, I bet it left its mark physically and emotionally. Perhaps you were left with questions like:

Did I really need that c-section?
Can my body handle a vaginal birth after what it’s been through?
Am I selfish or reckless for wanting a VBAC?
Will I regret not trying if I choose a repeat c-section?

These thoughts are common and they’re heavy to sit with. But let me tell you something…feeling uncertain doesn’t mean you’re weak or incapable. It means you care deeply about your baby, your body, and your experience. That care and intentionality is what will guide you toward the decision that aligns with your goals and values.

Why You Should Consider a VBAC

Many moms pursue VBAC because they want to experience a vaginal birth. For some, it’s about physical recovery and for others, it’s an emotional drive to reclaim their birth experience. Here are some reasons why VBAC might appeal to you:

Benefits of a VBAC

Generally a shorter recovery time. A VBAC often means less time in the hospital and a faster return to your daily life since you won’t be recovering from surgery.
Reduced risks in future pregnancies. Multiple c-sections can increase the risk of complications in future pregnancies such as placenta accreta, uterine rupture, or risk of hysterectomy. A successful VBAC can help mitigate these risk if you want to have more than 2 to 3 kids.
Healing and empowerment. For many women, a VBAC represents a chance to rebuild confidence in their body and their ability to give birth. It may also help to heal past birth trauma.

However, VBAC isn’t for everyone and it’s important to consider the potential risks as well.

Risks of a VBAC

Uterine rupture. This is the most serious and talked about risk associated with VBAC. Although rare (occurring in about 0.2-1% of cases), it’s a significant consideration.
Unplanned c-section. Not all VBAC attempts are “successful” and you may end up needing another c-section during labor.

The key to deciding whether VBAC is right for you lies in understanding your specific situation and working closely with a supportive team that you trust.

Why Some Women Choose a Repeat C-Section

A repeat c-section may feel like the safer or “more predictable” option. Maybe your first experience left you with a sense of trust in the surgical process or maybe you’re concerned about the risks associated with VBAC. Here are some reasons why moms may opt for a repeat c-section:

Benefits of a Repeat C-Section

A more controlled environment. Knowing how your baby will be born can bring a sense of control which may be helpful for some women. While the surgical environment is more controlled, there is always the potential for labor to begin before your scheduled c-section date or for complications to arise, as with any birth.
It is now a somewhat familiar process. If your first c-section was a positive experience, you might feel confident choosing the same path again.
Reduced risk of uterine rupture. If uterine rupture or other VBAC complications feel too risky, a repeat c-section might feel like the more secure choice.

But as with VBAC, repeat c-sections come with their own risks and challenges.

Risks of a Repeat C-Section

Longer recovery time. A c-section is major surgery and recovery often takes weeks longer than a vaginal birth.
Increased risks for future pregnancies. The more c-sections you have the higher the chance of complications like placenta previa, accreta, uterine scar issues, and need for hysterectomy.
Surgical complications. Like with any surgery there are risks of infection, blood clots, or adverse reactions to anesthesia that need to be considered.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels safest and most aligned with YOUR goals.

Questions to Ask Yourself

When weighing your options, it’s helpful to reflect on your goals, priorities, and circumstances. Here are a few questions to help your decision-making process:

What does my heart say? Trust your intuition. It often knows what your mind hasn’t fully processed yet.
What is my medical history? Discuss your specific risks and circumstances with a supportive provider.
What does my support system look like? Do you have people who will advocate for your choice and help you through recovery?
What are my future family plans? If you want more children, a VBAC might reduce risks for subsequent pregnancies.
What kind of recovery experience am I hoping for? Consider how your decision might impact your ability to care for your baby, yourself, and any older children.

Preparing for Your Choice of a VBAC or Repeat C-Section

Once you’ve weighed your options, preparation is key to feeling confident and supported. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

Educate Yourself

Dive into resources about VBAC and repeat c-sections.
Learn the success rates for VBAC at your hospital or with your chosen provider.

Build Your Support Team

Find a provider who supports your goals, whether that’s a VBAC-supportive OB, midwife, doula etc.
Surround yourself with people who will cheer you on, advocate for you, and respect your decision.

Practice Self-Advocacy

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek second opinions.
Be clear about your goals and boundaries during prenatal appointments.

Prepare Mentally and Physically

Take time to process any lingering emotions from your first birth. Journaling, therapy, or support groups can help.
Focus on building your physical strength and stamina through prenatal exercises and nutrition.

My Personal Experience Choosing a VBAC vs. a Repeat C-section

I remember being exactly where you are now. After my c-section, I felt a deep sense of doubt about my body’s ability to give birth. I spent hours looking through research, seeking opinions, and questioning myself. Ultimately, I chose to VBAC, and while it wasn’t easy, it was one of the most empowering moments of my life.

I knew 100% that I didn’t want a repeat c-section. I wanted to do everything in my power to have a VBAC. I didn’t want any regrets or to second guess myself like I did after my first birth. I knew that I wanted to do “all the things” like taking the Hypnobabies program to make sure I was prepared to go unmedicated. That way, if I did end up needing a repeat c-section, it would be because it was truly needed and not because I didn’t know my options.

But that was MY choice. What matters is finding the path that aligns with your vision and needs. Your story doesn’t have to look like mine to be valid, beautiful, and worthy.

So now what?

If you’re ready to feel confident and supported in your decision, I’d love to invite you to join my VBAC Is Your Birth Right program. This comprehensive program is designed to help you:

Weigh your options based on your unique circumstances.
Build a supportive birth team that aligns with your goals.
Learn practical strategies for advocating for yourself in a hospital setting.

This is your opportunity to take the next step toward an empowered birth experience. Whether you choose VBAC or a repeat c-section, this program will give you the tools and confidence to approach your birth with clarity and strength.

This is your chance to take the next step toward an empowered birth experience. Whether you choose VBAC or a repeat c-section, this webinar will give you the tools and confidence to approach your birth with clarity and strength.

Your Voice Matters

Every birth story is unique, and so is every mom and baby. What option feels most aligned with your goals? I’d love to hear from you. And remember, no matter if you choose to have a VBAC or a repeat c-section, you are making the best choice for yourself and your family.

You’ve got this.

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.