Is Normal Delivery after Cesarean Possible? Chances, benefits and risks 

Normal delivery after cesarean also known as vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is possible. 

• The duration between deliveries should be more than 18 months. 
• The extent to which you can try for a normal birth after a cesarean depends on the hospital and the gynecologist you choose.
• If the hospital encourages normal delivery after c-section, they should have data to show their VBAC success rates. 

Benefits of a Normal Delivery after Cesarean

• You experience less pain after delivery.
• You can breastfeed right after birth and bond with your baby. 
• You have a shorter recovery time.
• You could also avoid potential risks associated with multiple cesareans such as hysterectomy or bowel injuries.  
• Babies born by normal delivery may have a lower lifetime risk of asthma and diabetes.

In most cases, VBAC is safe. In less than 1% of women, however, there is a risk that the scar from the previous cesarean may rupture. Such a situation can be safely managed with an immediate cesarean, which is why you should attempt a VBAC in a hospital with 24/7 availability of anesthetists and a well functioning operating theatre.