Supporting Labor After 2 Cesarean Births

Labor after cesarean (LAC) is a safe alternative for pregnant persons who have had 1 or 2 previous cesarean births (CBs) and have no contraindication to vaginal birth. When compared with repeat CB, vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) reduces short- and long-term health complications and morbidity and should therefore be presented as an option. Despite recommendations from the American College of Nurse-Midwives and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in support of LAC, not all pregnant persons who are candidates have access to this option. In some areas, provider hesitancy and institutional guidelines limit the availability of LAC, especially after more than one CB. Midwives are uniquely positioned to advocate for this birthing option through the use of shared decision-making. In the antepartum period, birth decision aids, VBAC calculators, and continued dialogue allows for pregnant persons to make informed choices meeting their unique health needs and goals. This clinical rounds article highlights the safety of labor in a pregnant person with a history of 2 prior CBs. As presented in this case, when LAC includes the need for induction of labor, the use of a transcervical balloon catheter for cervical ripening and judicious use of oxytocin are safe, evidence-based options. Ultimately, LAC can offer pregnant persons an increased sense of autonomy and control over their labor and birth, which improve both satisfaction and outcomes, consistent with the family- and person-centered hallmarks of midwifery care.