Chiropractic Care & VBAC

VBAC has numerous benefits! At ANH Wellness, we enjoy assisting patients with whatever type of delivery they are planning. Since treating so many pregnant patients over the years, I've been particularly interested in patients who are planning a VBAC.

The term VBAC refers to a vaginal delivery after a cesarean section. These are women who intend to deliver vaginally following a previous c-section.

Let's learn more about VBAC!

VBAC has many benefits. Recovery following a vaginal birth is often less painful and uncomfortable than from a c-section. A C-section is significant surgery, and as with any major operation, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and anesthetic issues. Patients who complete a VBAC frequently report a less painful and more comfortable postpartum period. If you want to have more children, having a c-section does not necessarily indicate you will need another one. Many women who have had a c-section can give birth vaginally. If you have previously delivered by c-section, speak with your doctor about your eligibility for VBAC. There are of course risks and benefits associated with any type of birth. Discuss with your provider the best option for you.

I also urge that you visit ICAN, the International Cesarean Awareness Network, for more information and to find a c-section support group near you: https://www.ican-online.org/.

VBAC vs. TOLAC?

When a woman has not yet completed but is attempting a VBAC, this is known as a TOLAC. A TOLAC can potentially result in a C-section. In our office, we enjoy working with women who are planning a TOLAC or VBAC since chiropractic care can aid them along the way. I love to hear their stories and provide help and support in any way I can!

Regardless of how much planning you do, there is no way to account for everything that may occur during childbirth. In many circumstances, C-sections and other procedures might be essential. You may have heard that this implies that all future deliveries would be identical. However, having a C-section during one birth does not imply that one will be required in subsequent births. In fact, studies have indicated that C-sections are frequently performed when they are unnecessary and that a VBAC, or vaginal birth after cesarean, may be preferable. One of the benefits pregnant women can experience from visiting a Lithia Springs chiropractor is a higher chance of a vaginal birth in the future, even if she’s had prior cesarean sections.

Why should I try for a VBAC?

Several studies have demonstrated that a wide range of birth techniques, such as forceps, vacuums, and C-section births, can be harmful to a baby's short- and long-term health. Jaundice and feeding issues are among the most common intervention-related complications, but others may arise. In some situations, a C-section is a life-saving and medically required treatment. However, patients are often not well informed before they are told they need to undergo this surgery, and they are often unaware of the potential risks. For example, a baby born surgically may have a lower body temperature during birth. When planning your delivery, weighing the risks and advantages of any intervention you are offered and being informed ahead of time is critical.

How does chiropractic care help you achieve VBAC?

We must first determine what causes a vaginal delivery. We can think of the three P's: power, passage, and passenger. In a typical vaginal birth, uterine contractions are strong and effective enough to cause the cervix to dilate (power), the baby can pass through the maternal pelvis (passage), and the baby is labor-tolerant and in the best position for delivery (passenger). Issues during any three of these processes or structures may result in dysfunctional labor, necessitating a c-section.

Chiropractic care can be quite beneficial for patients undergoing VBAC. The Webster technique promotes pelvic movement during pregnancy, which may lead to labor. Increasing pelvic mobility during childbirth may help the baby travel more easily through the pelvis. The Webster technique is specifically designed to encourage movement of the pelvic inlet, mid-pelvis, and pelvic outlet, the three sections which the baby must pass to be born vaginally. We are certified in the Webster technique and use it to reposition the pelvis while stimulating pelvic mobility so that it can do its job as a baby descends during delivery.

When a woman is pregnant, her body goes through many changes. Carrying a child can result in greater curvature in the lower spine, as well as stiffness or discomfort in the spine or pelvis. It can even have an impact on your posture during and after pregnancy. Chiropractic therapy targets spine health to relieve pain and suffering during pregnancy, allowing you to fully enjoy this precious time. Chiropractic therapy can not only relieve discomfort, but it can also help with labor and delivery. Women who are properly aligned spend less time in labor, report less time during delivery, and recover more quickly.

Is there anything else I can do to help my body prepare for VBAC?

In addition to regular adjustments, I frequently recommend Spinning Babies Three Balances to these patients, which can be done at any stage of pregnancy. As my patients approach their delivery date, I also suggest the Miles Circuit. The Three Balances and Miles Circuit assist your baby get into the best position for a vaginal delivery to relax the soft tissues while also increasing pelvic mobility.

Taking a birthing class is another great way to prepare for a VBAC. Learn how to cope in labor, make choices before you go into labor, and make your partner a part of your birth team. There are numerous options, but my absolute favorite is Birth Boot Camp. They provide out-of-hospital classes, in-hospital classes, comfort measurement classes, and more! They are extensive, and you will receive all of the required reading materials.

To Sum It Up

Whatever kind of birth you are hoping to have, the best way to ensure success is to adequately prepare your body for delivery.When aiming for a VBAC, it is crucial to ensure that the pelvis is properly prepared for birth, including that it is aligned well. For pregnant women with this goal, the doctors at ANH Wellness can perform gentle adjustments that prepare the body for childbirth as well as help the baby move into the correct position.

It is not unsuccessful if the patient does not receive a VBAC, even though we can view one as a "success" if that is their desire. Whether it's your first, second, or third pregnancy—never view a cesarean birth as a failure. We have many patients who have a trial of labor that culminates in a repeat c-section, and these births can be just as successful.

Click here for additional information and support about VBAC! If you are local to Rochester, NY, Beautiful Birth Choices has a VBAC and Cesarean Support Group that meets monthly. Remember, we are here for you no matter what type of birth you desire or achieve. If you are planning a TOLAC or VBAC, we would love to work with you!

By: Dr. Megan Stavalone, CACCP

Webster & Perinatal Certified Chiropractor

VBAC Certified Birth Doula

Medical Disclaimer: "The information including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment."

Sources: Spinning Babies - VBAC https://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy-birth/vbac/ The Miles Circuit https://www.milescircuit.com/the-circuit.html The VBAC Link https://www.thevbaclink.com/ ICAN - International Cesarean Awareness Network https://www.ican-online.org/ VBAC and Cesarean Support Group - Rochester NY https://bbcroc.com/vbac-and-cesarean-support-group/