VBAC

John Paciuc, MD Our Services VBAC

John Paciuc, MD

OBGYN located in Upper East Side, New York, NY

For most of the 20th century, the dictum “once a cesarean always a cesarean” was considered gospel. However, that’s no longer the case. Women who had prior C-sections can safely attempt a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Experienced OB/GYN John Paciuc, MD, with an office located in the Yorkville neighborhood of Manhattan, is known for being very successful with VBAC. Dr. Paciuc can help teach you more about VBAC and whether it’s an option for you, call the Upper East Side office to schedule an appointment.

VBAC Q & A

What is VBAC?

VBAC refers to vaginal delivery after you’ve had a C-section. It was previously believed and practiced that once you had a C-section, you could not have a vaginal delivery with future pregnancies. The concerns were that vaginal delivery after a C-section would lead to tearing of the uterus.

However, research indicates that women can successfully and safely give birth vaginally after they’ve had a C-section.  

Am I a good candidate for a VBAC?

Dr. Paciuc determines if you’re a good candidate for VBAC during your consultation. To be considered a possible candidate for VBAC, you must first be considered a good candidate for a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC). To be considered a good candidate for TOLAC, you must have a low transverse scar from your prior C-section and not have any medical issues requiring a C-section during this pregnancy.

Dr. Paciuc also considers TOLAC for twin pregnancies, as well as women requiring induction who’ve undergone appropriate counseling.

What increases my odds of a successful VBAC?

There are many factors that may increase your chances of a successful VBAC, which Dr. Paciuc takes into consideration during your consultation. Some of these factors include:

  • Previous vaginal delivery
  • Previous VBAC
  • Spontaneous onset of labor with normal progression
  • Cervix with high Bishop score on admission, very effaced and dilated
  • Baby not large for gestational age
  • Prior C-section due to baby’s position

You may prefer a vaginal birth for many reasons, including shorter hospital stay and recovery, less pain, and fewer complications.

What can I expect during a VBAC consultation?

Dr. Paciuc is an experienced OB/GYN who conducts a detailed and unrushed appointment when you come in for a VBAC consultation. He reviews with you the full nature of the TOLAC as compared to an elective repeat C-section, discussing the benefits, risks, and alternatives with you. He also takes into consideration your personal values, preferences, past birthing experiences, and future pregnancy plans. 

At the time of your delivery, Dr. Paciuc reviews all the factors needed for a successful VBAC to roughly predict your chances of a vaginal delivery. Throughout his 30 years of practice, Dr. Paciuc has had many successful VBAC deliveries, including a recent set of twins, which he considers one of the most rewarding “professional peak experiences” of his career.

Dr. Paciuc can help determine if a VBAC delivery is an option for you. To schedule your VBAC consultation, call John Paciuc, MD, to request an appointment.

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