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Intermediate Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

VBAC

Pronunciation: VEE-back

Also written as: VBAC — Vaginal Birth After Cesarean

Vaginal birth after cesarean section, an alternative to repeat cesarean delivery.

Full Definition

VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) refers to the planned vaginal delivery of a woman who has previously delivered by cesarean section. This approach became popular as an alternative to routine repeat cesarean deliveries, with success rates of 60-80% depending on various factors. Candidate selection is crucial and considers factors such as the type of previous uterine incision, reason for previous cesarean, and current pregnancy characteristics. VBAC carries the risk of uterine rupture but offers benefits including shorter recovery time and reduced surgical complications.

Usage

Usage note: Always capitalize as acronym; distinguish from TOLAC (trial of labor after cesarean).

In Context

  • "Patient is a candidate for VBAC given her previous low transverse cesarean." — Prenatal counseling note
  • "VBAC was successful after 8 hours of labor." — Delivery summary

Also known as

trial of labor after cesarean TOLAC

Contrasted with

repeat cesarean section elective repeat cesarean delivery

Don't confuse with

TOLAC vaginal delivery
vasa previa ← Back to glossary velamentous cord insertion

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