What should you know about VBAC pregnancy?

Your maternity team reviews the reason for the earlier caesarean, the type of uterine incision, any other uterine surgery, your current pregnancy, and your preferences. A previous vaginal birth can also shape the discussion. VBAC is different from an unplanned vaginal delivery because the team prepares for both labour and the possibility of another caesarean. Continuous assessment may include checking contractions, the baby's heart rate, and your symptoms.

The main concern discussed is a scar on the uterus opening during labour. This is uncommon but serious, so the birth setting needs prompt access to emergency obstetric, anaesthetic, and newborn care. A planned repeat Caesarean Section remains another pathway, and the choice should reflect your history and informed preferences.

Book antenatal care early and bring details of the prior operation if you have them. Ask whether your records show the uterine incision and whether induction is suitable for you. Discuss how labour will be monitored, pain-relief options, who will be present, and what circumstances would lead to a caesarean. Keep your hospital contact instructions accessible and tell the team about bleeding, fluid leakage, reduced fetal movement, or regular contractions.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for heavy bleeding, severe or constant abdominal pain, sudden tenderness over the scar area, faintness, fluid leakage, regular contractions, or reduced fetal movement. During labour, sudden pain between contractions, a change in contractions, or an abnormal fetal heart-rate pattern needs immediate assessment. Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms feel severe or rapidly worsen.

Ask: Is VBAC appropriate with my previous operation? How will labour and the uterine scar be monitored? What are my options if labour does not start or progresses slowly? How quickly could an emergency caesarean be arranged at my planned birth setting?