
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Chapter from the book:
Altuner,
Y.
(ed.)
2025.
General Information about Women, Birth and Children in The Field of Midwifery with Current Methods.
Synopsis
In recent years, cesarean delivery rates have been increasing both in our country and worldwide. Elective cesareans have a significant share in this rise. Cesarean deliveries are of vital importance in cases where the mother or fetus is at risk; however, unless medically necessary, elective cesarean sections should not be the first choice. When comparing vaginal birth and cesarean delivery, maternal mortality and morbidity rates are higher in cesarean births.
In addition, cesarean delivery is a costly procedure and negatively affects the national economy. Although cesarean section is a safe procedure when indicated, it also brings certain risks for the woman's future pregnancies. Therefore, increasing the practice of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) in appropriate cases can contribute to reducing overall cesarean rates. In this regard, midwives and other healthcare professionals have critically important roles to play.