Planning for a vaginal birth after a Cesarean (VBAC) is both empowering and challenging. A VBAC parent is often treated differently in the medical system, sometimes drastically so. The approach to supporting them as a birth worker must take these differences into account, both mentally and physically. From mental blocks, unresolved trauma, and fear to the reality of a uterus with a previous incision, VBACs come with layers of complexity that go beyond typical birth support.
But with the right preparation, support, and education, a VBAC can be a transformative experience. As a certified VBAC doula, I help guide parents through the unique aspects of preparing for and achieving a VBAC, and I’m here to explain how specialized support can make a difference.
The Foundation of VBAC Support
When a VBAC parent first sits down with me, they often want to share their past birth experience, especially if it involves a Cesarean. It’s not just about the medical facts of the birth; it’s about the emotions, the trauma, the what-ifs, and the unspoken fears. Listening to them with an open heart helps me understand what they need most in this upcoming birth.
Whether it’s unprocessed trauma from the surgery or the fear of repeat interventions, it’s my role to make space for these emotions. Together, we work on shifting their mindset from “Can I really do this?” to “I am ready to give birth the way I desire.”
Understanding the Terminology
Often, healthcare providers use the term TOLAC—which stands for Trial of Labor After Cesarean—when discussing a VBAC. Although it sounds medical and even a bit discouraging (who wants to “try” when they’re aiming to succeed?), it’s just a term. What it means is that you’re planning for a VBAC, and the journey begins with preparation. I help my clients mentally reframe TOLAC as a step towards VBAC success and navigate conversations with providers that may feel overly technical or negative.
The Importance of Extra Prenatal Support
Prenatal visits with a VBAC doula often involve more time and deeper conversations. Not only do we discuss the upcoming birth, but we also review the past birth. What worked? What didn’t? What would they like to change? Understanding these preferences allows me to offer targeted support and education to prevent unnecessary interventions and complications.
If a client hasn’t yet accessed their operative report from their Cesarean, I’ll guide them through obtaining it. That report often sheds light on what truly happened during the surgery, which can be different from what they were told at the time. Knowledge is empowering, and knowing the facts can give VBAC parents the clarity they need.
Partner Support
It’s not just the birthing person who needs support—partners often experience trauma, fear, or helplessness during a Cesarean birth. This time, they want to know how to be there fully for their partner. I spend time listening to the partner’s story, hearing their concerns, and addressing their fears. By processing what happened last time, they can step into this birth more confident and connected, playing a supportive and active role in the birthing process.
Transforming Fear into Confidence
Many VBAC parents approach birth feeling defensive, often as a result of being mistreated or dismissed during their previous birth experience. The fear of being told they “can’t” have a vaginal birth can be overwhelming. I help them transform this defense into confidence by arming them with facts, advocacy strategies, and a solid birth plan.
We also work through fears using exercises designed to release past trauma and prepare mentally for the upcoming birth. I believe mental preparation is as critical as physical readiness, and through our prenatal meetings, we take the time to address every concern.
Choosing the Right Provider
One of the most critical decisions for a VBAC parent is choosing a provider who is genuinely supportive of their goals. As a VBAC doula, I help my clients research hospital policies, ask the right questions, and identify red flags. If the current provider isn’t a good match, I encourage them to trust their intuition and explore other options.
A supportive provider can be the difference between a positive, empowering birth and one that feels dismissive or traumatic. I guide my clients in finding the right birth team, helping them feel secure and supported on their birthing day.
Navigating Birth Space Challenges
Every birth is unpredictable, and VBAC parents must prepare for the possibility of another Cesarean. But that doesn’t mean we stop planning for the VBAC they want. I help them understand the medical side of things, and I teach them how to advocate for themselves during labor. This includes understanding medical language, knowing when interventions are necessary, and advocating for their birth plan when they feel unsure.
If a Cesarean becomes necessary, I support them in creating a gentle, empowered C-section experience, where they feel informed, respected, and involved in every step of the process.
Processing Birth Trauma
Trauma from a previous birth can resurface during labor, making the emotional aspects of VBAC even more significant. Many clients may have felt ignored, disrespected, or unheard in their Cesarean birth. I help them process these feelings before labor begins, allowing space for healing and peace. We focus on the present birth, reframing past experiences while preparing for the journey ahead.
A VBAC doula doesn’t just provide physical support; we help our clients work through emotional and psychological barriers, ensuring they feel prepared and empowered.
A VBAC Doula Can Help You Have a Better Birth
Having a VBAC doula can make a huge difference in the outcome of your birth. From extra prenatal visits to specialized VBAC classes and emotional support, my role is to empower you, inform you, and stand by your side as you work toward your VBAC goal. You deserve a birth experience that reflects your choices, your desires, and your strength.
If you’re preparing for a VBAC and want personalized support, consider my VBAC-specific birth package. As one of the only Advanced VBAC Link-trained doulas in Houston, you’ll get extra prenatal visits and a VBAC-focused birth class, we’ll work together to create a plan that honors your needs, giving you the best chance for a positive and empowered birth experience. Let’s make your VBAC a reality—because your body is capable, and you are stronger than you know.