VBAC or Repeat C-Section? Which is Actually Riskier? | Ep. 59 — Natural Birth For Catholic Moms | Faith-Filled Birth Education, Holistic Pregnancy, Unmedicated Labor, Natural Hospital Birth Tips + Birth Stories For A Holy Confident Birth

One of the most frustrating things I see as a doula and labor and delivery nurse is how often women are making birth decisions based on fear instead of facts. When it comes to VBAC specifically, many women are told it’s “too risky” without ever being given real numbers or full context.

In this week's episode I walk through the actual risk of a VBAC using real data, current research, and what I’ve seen firsthand working with pregnant mamas. I break down why uterine rupture is so often misunderstood, how risk is commonly misrepresented in provider conversations, and why the risks of repeat C-sections are rarely discussed alongside VBAC.

If you’re pregnant after a previous C-section and trying to decide between a VBAC and a repeat C-section, this episode is meant to help you understand the data clearly so you can make a confident, informed decision - not one rooted in fear.

Covered in this episode:

What VBAC and TOLAC actually mean
The real risk of a VBAC, including uterine rupture rates
Why relative risk language is misleading in birth decisions
How often severe outcomes truly occur with VBAC
The risks of repeat C-sections that are often left out of the conversation
How multiple C-sections affect future pregnancies
When VBAC may not be appropriate
Why induction changes the risk profile of a VBAC

Resources:

Study mentioned: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14520209/

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About Me

Hi, friend! I’m Eve—a Catholic mom, Registered Nurse, Doula, and Childbirth Educator. I help women reclaim God’s design for childbirth and prepare for natural, faith-centered birth experiences they’ll love. On this podcast, we’ll explore birth, faith, and natural motherhood with Jesus at the center.

Want to learn more? Visit⁠ holyconfidentbirth.com⁠.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.

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