Where I Offer VBAC & VBAMC Support

Massachusetts: VBAC and VBAMC homebirth with me directly—this is fully within my scope of practice.
New Hampshire & Maine: VBAMC homebirth is not permitted, even with a CNM. However, I offer full prenatal care and virtual support throughout your pregnancy.
Nationwide: I support VBAC and VBAMC mothers planning a freebirth. Your body is yours, and I honor your right to birth autonomously.

Have questions about your options? Contact me to discuss your unique situation.

Understanding VBAC and VBAMC

Q: What is VBAC, and what is VBAMC?
A: VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. VBAMC refers to Vaginal Birth After Multiple Cesareans. Both involve delivering vaginally after a previous cesarean section.

For VBAC and VBAMC mothers, the right support and careful planning are crucial. I offer virtual support to help you navigate your choices. Depending on your location, I also provide in-home emotional and physical support for your journey.

How I Support VBAC Mothers

Q: How do you support VBAC and VBAMC mothers?
A: I treat all VBAC mothers like any other mother. I address your worries and help you process and heal from prior experiences. Together, we build your confidence back up. I help you remember your own power and explore your options.

I offer a range of services:

Virtual Consultations: We’ll discuss risks, benefits, and options. You’ll be well-prepared and informed for your VBAC or VBAMC.

Evidence-Based Resources: I provide research and information about the latest studies. This helps you make empowered decisions about your birth.

Emotional and Mental Support: Birth after a cesarean can bring up concerns and fears. I help you overcome anxiety and build confidence in your ability to birth vaginally.

In-Home Support (in Massachusetts): I provide physical and emotional support during labor and delivery. You’ll feel safe, supported, and empowered.

Customized Birth Planning: Together, we create a birth plan tailored to your needs. We consider your past birth experiences, your health, and your current pregnancy.

Is VBAC Safe?

Q: Is VBAC safe?
A: Yes, VBAC is generally safe for most women. This is especially true when you meet certain criteria. These include a low transverse cesarean incision, a healthy pregnancy, and appropriate prenatal care.

VBAMC is also possible. It comes with additional considerations due to the number of previous cesareans. I’ll work with you to assess your individual situation. We’ll review your medical history and help you understand the risks and benefits.

Understanding the Risks

Q: What are the risks associated with VBAC and VBAMC?
A: While VBAC and VBAMC are safe for many women, they do carry some risks:

Uterine Rupture: This is a rare but serious risk. The previous cesarean scar could rupture during labor. The risk increases slightly with each cesarean, but it’s still low. This is especially true if you meet the right criteria.

Placental Issues: Previous cesareans can sometimes affect placental implantation. This may lead to complications in some cases.

Longer Labor: Some women experience a longer labor with VBAC or VBAMC. This is more common with multiple prior cesareans.

We’ll carefully discuss your history, health, and risks during consultations. You can make a fully informed decision. You’ll also have a backup plan ready, just in case.

Increasing Your Chances of Success

Q: How can I increase my chances of a successful VBAC or VBAMC?
A: Several factors can increase your chances:

Choose the right caregiver: Work with a supportive midwife or OB experienced in VBAC and VBAMC.

Spontaneous labor: A spontaneous onset of labor (without induction) is ideal.

Good health: Maintain a healthy pregnancy. Avoid complications like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

Supportive environment: Feeling emotionally supported, prepared, and calm helps ensure a smoother process.

Optimal fetal position: Encourage baby to be in the best position for birth. Stay active, get regular chiropractic care, try Spinning Babies and Miles Circuit. The rest is in God’s hands. I assure you that the body almost always sorts out positional challenges when given time and support.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Q: What makes a good candidate for VBAC or VBAMC?
A: An ideal candidate generally meets these criteria:

Low transverse incision: A horizontal incision along the bikini line, rather than a vertical incision.

Number of cesareans: No more than two previous cesareans is typical. However, many women with more than two may still be candidates depending on individual circumstances.

No major complications: This means no placenta previa, active infections, or significant uterine abnormality.

Good physical and emotional health: You should be in good health and mentally prepared. Your diet should be free from refined and inflammatory foods.

Favorable pelvic shape: An adequate pelvic structure improves your chances. And thankfully, nearly every woman has this—even those who have been told they do not.

Preparing for Your VBAC

Q: How do you prepare for a VBAC or VBAMC?
A: Preparation is key. Here’s how we work together:

Create a flexible birth wishes list: We’ll discuss your preferences. Where do you want to labor? What are your wishes for interventions? How will we manage challenges?

Learn about physiological birth: See my childbirth prep page for resources. You own your experience, no matter what hand you are dealt. It’s important that you feel ready to embrace the journey.

Physical preparation: I’ll guide you on exercises and strategies to prepare your body. This includes optimal fetal positioning techniques. Most important: stay active, unless your provider has given you a reason not to!

Emotional support: VBAC and VBAMC can bring up a lot of emotions. I help you build confidence, manage fears, and trust your body’s ability to birth vaginally.

Continuous support: Whether virtual or in person, I help you assess your progress. I guide you through labor to encourage a positive, empowered experience.

What If I Need to Transfer?

Q: What happens if I need to transfer to the hospital during my VBAC or VBAMC?
A: It’s important to have a backup plan. If you need to transfer, we ensure the process is smooth. You’ll be well-supported emotionally throughout.

I help you navigate any concerns or decisions during the transfer. You’ll be fully informed and prepared for whatever happens. I’m here to ensure you feel confident and empowered no matter the outcome.

Important: I highly encourage having legal representation reserved prior to birth. This is especially true if you plan to decline routine procedures like IV antibiotics, vitamin K, or the Newborn Screening. Some pediatricians may not respect your choices. On rare occasions, they may threaten legal custody if you don’t follow recommendations. While this is rare, it’s prudent to have a plan to protect your family.

I also strongly encourage meeting a supportive pediatrician, DO, or family doctor. They can advocate for release of your healthy baby if needed.

Getting Started

Q: How can I get started with your VBAC or VBAMC support?
A: Reach out via my contact page to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll discuss your medical history and your goals for your upcoming birth. I’ll explain how I can best support you—whether virtually or in person.

Together, we’ll create a birth plan tailored to your needs. I provide emotional support throughout your pregnancy. My goal is to help you have a safe and positive VBAC or VBAMC experience.

Freebirth and Homebirth After Cesarean

Q: Can I have a freebirth or homebirth if I have had a prior cesarean?
A: Your body is yours alone. It is your right to plan for a homebirth or freebirth as a VBAC/VBAMC mother.

Research supports that having a trial of labor after prior cesarean (TOLAC) is a very reasonable choice. It is overall safe for most women. Conventional providers often dissuade women from VBAC. They cite estimated fetal weight, being postdates, fluid levels, and other reasons. Don’t let fear-based advice steal your birth.

It may be necessary to join VBAC communities to find support in your area. And know that I am here to support you, wherever you are. Contact me to discuss your options.