Responses to vaginal birth after cesarean section

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal Health
• Nursing Research

Background:

• Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is an alternative to repeat cesarean delivery.
• Understanding women's experiences and perceptions of VBAC is crucial for improving care.
• Previous research has explored VBAC outcomes, but a comprehensive comparison of women's reactions to VBAC versus prior cesarean experiences is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare women's reactions to vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) with their reactions to previous cesarean birth experiences.
• To identify factors influencing the decision to attempt VBAC.
• To describe women's attributions for the outcomes of their birth experiences.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory descriptive study utilizing the Roy Adaptation Model.
• Participants: 32 women with VBAC experience.
• Data Collection: Perception of the Birth Scale and a researcher-developed questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Women reported moderately positive VBAC experiences, though scores were lower than for unassisted vaginal births.
• A significant association was found between delivery mode and adaptive responses, with VBAC yielding more adaptive responses than cesarean.
• Decisions to attempt VBAC were influenced by information from healthcare providers, family, and media; successful outcomes were often attributed to external factors.

Conclusions:

• Childbearing involves both positive and negative aspects, irrespective of delivery mode.
• High-quality nursing and obstetric care, including pain relief, support, and information, are essential for all women.
• Further research should explore interventions to enhance positive VBAC experiences and support women's adaptive responses.