VBAC Planning Worksheet

What this worksheet is and is not

VBAC means vaginal birth after cesarean. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) explains that after a previous cesarean you can have a scheduled cesarean or try to give birth vaginally; the attempt is called a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC).

If you search for “VBAC calculator,” you will find clinical prediction tools built for providers to use with a patient’s full history. This page is not one of those, on purpose. A calculator without your records and an examination cannot tell you anything reliable about your own chances, so the worksheet gives you the questions instead and leaves the assessment to your provider.

Questions to bring to your provider

The question list follows the topics in ACOG’s patient FAQ:

• Your previous incision. ACOG explains that the type of cut made in the uterus matters, that you cannot tell it from the scar on your skin, and that the records from your previous delivery should say. The worksheet adds a reminder to request them.
• Where you give birth. ACOG says VBAC should take place in a hospital that can manage emergencies, and that some hospitals may not offer VBAC.
• Benefits and risks of both a VBAC and a repeat cesarean, for you.
• What could change the plan, such as an induction, or going into labor before a scheduled cesarean.
• Future pregnancies, if you may want more children.

Each question prints with space to write the answer.

Preferences worth recording in advance

Some decisions are easier made calmly beforehand: time to labor with movement and comfort measures if labor starts on its own; wanting to talk through the reasons if an induction is suggested; your pain relief preferences; who you want with you; and asking to have changes explained. Write them on the worksheet and bring it to your appointment so they can be discussed and added to your record.

Planning for early labor

The home section is practical: your provider’s instructions for when to call or come in, a ride and childcare, your records requested, a packed bag, a contraction timer for a clean log, and comfort measures you have practiced. The free Hospital Bag Builder and Labor Contraction Timer cover the last two.

If your plan changes

ACOG notes that things can happen in labor that change the balance of risks and benefits, and that you and your provider may reconsider. The last section records what matters to you if you have a repeat cesarean: your support person with you, seeing your baby quickly, skin-to-skin if possible and help with feeding. The Preparing for Your VBAC class covers both paths, including postpartum care and what to expect after a VBAC.