What are my options for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)?

Current evidence supports VBAC as a safe choice for the majority of people who have had a prior cesarean section.  The risks and benefits of both elective repeat caesarean section (ERCS) and VBAC and options for labour management are important components of informed choice discussions that will take place with your midwife.  There is also acknowledgement of the growing body of evidence that multiple cs have the potential to cause long-term harm.

The midwifery scope of practice as defined by the College of Midwives of Ontario (CMO) allows for midwives to provide prenatal, labour and delivery care and postpartum care to people who have had one lower segment transverse cesarean section (LSTCS).  A midwife may provide the same care for a person who has had two previous LSTCS however, the midwife must also consult with a physician and in this case, a transfer of care in labour is a part of KHSC hospital midwifery guidelines.