What is a VBAC calculator?

You may have heard the term “VBAC calculator” floating around. Whey do they exist? How are they helpful? Or harmful? how do we actually improve our odds having a vaginal birth after a cesarean or two? I am here to tell you more about it!

Researchers have attempted to isolate factors that can "predict" a woman's chance of having a vaginal birth after a cesarean. Families and care practioners may take into account the percentage this calculator formulates, and use it to inform their decision about trying for a VBAC or electing for a repeat CS.

Limitations of VBAC calculators:

Can be racist

Don't take into account location of birth or type of practioner

Have not been proven to reduce birth complications

Can under-report success rates

Can create a self-fulfilling prophecy

"If you’re labeled with a high or low probability of VBAC, this can be a self-fulfilling prophecy if it leads to changes in how the care provider takes care of you during labor to either be more or less supportive of you attempting a VBAC."

—Evidence Based Birth

A VBAC calculator is something families may find helpful in making a decision about future births, however there are many limitations one should consider Factors that we know impact your success rate: Picking a VBAC supportive care practioner and birth location; taking a VBAC or independent childbirth education class; and hiring a doula!