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13 myths about vaginal birth after cesarean

13 myths about vaginal birth after cesarean

by | Aug 3, 2022 | Birth myths, Cesarean section, Hospital birth, Infant Outcomes, Maternal Outcomes, Placental abnormalities, Planning your vbac, Uterine Rupture, VBAC, VBAC Bans

Over the course of the past 15 years, I have come across a lot of misinformation about VBAC. All of the myths below have come straight from readers who have asked me, “Is this true?” And every single time, the answer as been, “No.” I thought it was time to pluck out the most pervasive VBAC myths and assemble them into one article… and downloadable handout. These myths cover basic things like uterine rupture rates to difficult topics like death and logistical things like hospital policy. In the end, all of these myths confuse birthing women and people about their options making it impossible for them to make a truly informed decision between vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) and elective repeat cesarean section.

Does VBAC after more than one prior cesarean pose an increased risk? YES.

Does VBAC after more than one prior cesarean pose an increased risk? YES.

by | Aug 31, 2020 | Birth myths, Evidence based medicine, Maternal Outcomes, Planning your vbac, Using statistics, Uterine Rupture, VBAC, VBAC after multiple cesareans

An advocate claims that the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) said VBAC after more than one prior cesarean (VBAMC) doesn’t pose an increased risk. A reader contacted me asking if this was correct. It is not. ACOG does not say that because it’s not true.

Induction is wrong, wrong, wrong… wait, what?

Induction is wrong, wrong, wrong… wait, what?

by | Feb 12, 2013 | Birth myths, Inductions, VBAC

It’s important to use clear, specific language when we talk about birth because there is a lot of confusion among moms, advocates, doulas, and health care providers about VBAC and induction. When I point out the lack of clarity many people have on the topic to “anti-induction advocates” (for the lack of a better term), they respond with the fact that their focus is warning moms about elective inductions, which is absolutely needed. And they genuinely believe that people are aware of the distinction between elective and medically-indicated inductions. However, that has not been my experience, in fact it’s been quite the opposite. There are many people who don’t understand the why, when, and how of inducing VBACs and that is impacting the abilities of women to make informed decisions and exercise their right of patient autonomy.

Should you use evening primrose oil (EPO) while pregnant?

Should you use evening primrose oil (EPO) while pregnant?

by | Nov 13, 2012 | Birth myths, VBAC

Many moms and midwives use evening primrose oil (EPO) for cervical ripening. So I was absolutely shocked at the complete lack of evidence on the effectiveness and safety of EPO use among pregnant women. There are only two studies that examine the oral use EPO and its ability to ripen the cervix during pregnancy. There are no studies on the vaginal use of EPO. In short, there is insufficient clinical evidence documenting the risks and benefits of EPO and without that information, the question is, should pregnant women take it?

Free Handout Debunks...

There is a bit of myth and mystery surrounding what the American College of OB/GYNs (ACOG) says about VBAC, so let’s get to the facts, straight from the mouth of ACOG via their latest VBAC guidelines.

VBAC Facts® does not provide any medical advice and the information provided should not be so construed or used. Nothing provided by VBAC Facts® is intended to replace the services of a qualified physician or midwife or to be a substitute for medical advice of a qualified physician or midwife. You should not rely on anything provided by VBAC Facts® and you should consult a qualified health care professional in all matters relating to your health. Amazon Associates Disclosure: Jen Kamel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Created By: Jen Kamel | The Truth About VBAC™ and VBAC Facts® are trademarks of VBAC Facts® LLC and may not be used without prior written permission. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2007-2021 VBAC Facts®. All Rights Reserved. | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy

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