Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
We provide comprehensive care, including all types of advanced medical services, to help you have the birth experience you want.
Medically reviewed by Clara Paik, M.D. on April 24, 2026.
Experts in Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
We understand that the way you give birth is important to you. You may have delivered by Cesarean section in the past but want to try a vaginal birth. However, you may feel unsure whether that is possible or whether you have the support you need.
At UC Davis Health, we are a leader in OB-GYN care and routinely manage VBAC deliveries. We have a full range of maternity services in place to support you during pregnancy and treat potential complications. The compassionate providers at our birth center are here to give you information, listen to your concerns and help you meet your goals for labor and delivery.
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What Is VBAC?
Cesarean section rates have increased since the 1970s. Today, about one in three deliveries are C-sections. We have helped many who have had C-sections and later want to give birth vaginally. We understand how meaningful this choice is to you.
If you have had a C-section, it may be possible to have a vaginal birth the next time. VBAC involves what is called a trial of labor. This is when you attempt to deliver vaginally under our close monitoring. VBAC success rates range from 60% to 80%.
The benefits for those who have a successful VBAC delivery typically include:
- Lower risk of bleeding, infection, bowel injury and bladder injury
- Reduced risk of problems with future pregnancies
- Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
Exploring VBAC is an important part of your birth planning process. It requires careful consideration to ensure:
- You are a good candidate for VBAC and understand the benefits and risks
- Expert care is in place to safely attempt VBAC and treat any issues that arise for you or your baby
Approaches to VBAC
Complete VBAC care starts during your pregnancy and continues throughout labor and delivery. Our approach includes advanced treatments and personalized attention at every step.
Medical History Review
We review your medical history and the details of all your past pregnancies. We consider several details to make a birthing plan recommendation to you. These factors include past C-sections and vaginal deliveries, scar type, age, weight and chronic health conditions.
Counseling
We explain the benefits and risks so you can decide what’s right for you. One rare but serious risk is uterine rupture, which is when a previous C-section scar opens during labor. If a rupture happens, you will need an emergency C-section.
Trial of Labor
When regular contractions begin, we monitor the progress of labor and your baby’s heartbeat for any signs of complications. Our anesthesiologists are available during labor for pain control.
Emergency C-Section
We stay ready to perform a C-section at all times. This readiness includes the availability of obstetricians, anesthesiologists and support staff as well as operating room facilities.
Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU)
UC Davis Children’s Hospital is home to a designated level 4 NICU (the highest level). Our neonatologists and other specialists work together to treat the many complex conditions that newborns can have.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing VBAC
Pregnancy and childbirth are very personal experiences. We’re committed to following your birth plan preferences whenever possible. Here are some things to consider during the planning process.
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Start Planning Early
Let your provider know as soon as possible if you are thinking about VBAC or if you just want to learn more. Having this discussion earlier in pregnancy can give you the best chance of success.
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Talk It Over
Decisions regarding VBAC are best made through discussions with your provider and loved ones. We respect your choices and encourage you to ask questions. We will talk with you about your options and the pros and cons of each.
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Your Delivery Plan May Change
Your birth plan may change because of things you can’t control. For example, inducing labor can decrease the chance of successful VBAC. We may recommend switching to a C-section if you need labor induction.
Preparing for Vaginal Delivery
Preparation can help you feel more in control during labor and vaginal delivery and enhance the experience. The following tips can help get you started. You can learn more about our birth center and personalized care for your pregnancy.
Attend a Birthing Class
Taking birthing classes can help you set expectations and give you confidence. You can register for our prepared childbirth classes to help in your delivery journey.
Consider Hiring a Doula
Doulas provide guidance and support and can act as your advocate when you make care decisions. UC Davis Health also has volunteer doulas at the hospital who can help you through your delivery.
Decide How You Will Manage Pain
Preparing to use multiple strategies to ease pain can give you options when you need them. We offer several types of obstetric anesthesia based on your needs and preferences.
"Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery," NIH, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507844/
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Ranked among the nation’s best hospitals
A U.S. News & World Report best hospital in cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, diabetes & endocrinology, ENT, geriatrics, neurology & neurosurgery, and pulmonology & lung surgery.
Ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals
U.S. News & World Report ranked UC Davis Children’s Hospital among the best in pediatric nephrology, orthopedics*, and pulmonology & lung surgery. (*Together with Shriners Children’s Northern California)
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital by U.S. News, and high-performing in aortic valve surgery, back surgery (spinal fusion), COPD, colon cancer surgery, diabetes, gynecological cancer surgery, heart arrhythmia, heart failure, kidney failure, leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma, lung cancer surgery, pacemaker implantation, pneumonia, prostate cancer surgery, stroke, TAVR, cancer, orthopedics, gastroenterology & GI surgery, and urology.
The nation’s highest nursing honor
UC Davis Medical Center has received Magnet® recognition, the nation’s highest honor for nursing excellence.
World-class cancer care
One of ~59 U.S. cancer centers designated “comprehensive” by the National Cancer Institute.
A leader in health care equality
For the 13th consecutive year, UC Davis Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the educational arm of America’s largest civil rights organization.
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