The short answer
After one caesarean, many women can safely plan a vaginal birth next time, known as VBAC, and most who try succeed. The main risk is the scar on the womb opening during labour, which is uncommon but serious, so VBAC must happen in a hospital that can monitor you continuously and do an emergency caesarean at any time. Whether VBAC is right for you depends on why your first caesarean was done and on this pregnancy.
Book a planned caesarean, from ₦950,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Who can usually plan a VBAC
Women with one previous caesarean done through a low, side-to-side cut on the womb, and a straightforward pregnancy now, can usually be offered VBAC. Your chance of success is generally higher if you have had a vaginal birth before, if labour starts on its own, and if the reason for the first caesarean, such as a baby lying bottom first, is not present this time.
The cut on your skin does not always match the cut on your womb. Ask the hospital where you had your caesarean for the operation note, or ask your new obstetrician to request it.
When another caesarean is usually advised
- A previous vertical ('classical') cut on the womb
- A previous rupture of the womb
- Placenta praevia, or another reason a vaginal birth is unsafe in this pregnancy
- Two or more previous caesareans, when the obstetrician will discuss the extra risks carefully
- A previous myomectomy where the surgeon advised against labour
The risks, honestly
VBAC: the main risk is the scar opening during labour (uterine rupture). It is uncommon, but when it happens it is an emergency for mother and baby, which is why continuous monitoring and an operating theatre ready at any hour are essential. Some women who try VBAC end up needing an emergency caesarean in labour.
Repeat caesarean: an operation each time, with a longer recovery, and each extra caesarean raises the risk of placenta problems in later pregnancies.
Neither choice is risk-free. Your obstetrician can help you weigh them for your own situation.
Never labour at home or in a mission house after a CS
In Nigeria there is sometimes pressure to 'prove' you can deliver normally, and some women with a previous caesarean labour at home, with a traditional birth attendant, or in a church or mission house. This is dangerous. If the scar opens there is no theatre, no blood and no time, and mothers and babies die from it. A VBAC is safe only in a hospital equipped for an emergency caesarean.
Wanting a normal delivery is valid. Having a caesarean is not a failure, and neither is changing your plan in labour.
Planning a VBAC
Book antenatal care early and tell your obstetrician about the previous caesarean. Agree a plan for when labour starts: go to hospital as soon as contractions begin or your waters break. Inducing labour after a caesarean raises the risk of the scar opening, so discuss what happens if you go past your due date. Many women also agree a back-up date for a planned caesarean in case labour does not start.
What it costs on Mezo
Three nights in hospital included.
Common questions
Can I have a normal delivery after two caesareans?
It is sometimes possible, but the risks are higher, and a planned caesarean is usually advised. Discuss it carefully with an obstetrician who has seen your notes.
How long after a CS can I try for VBAC?
A short gap between births raises the risk of the scar opening. Doctors usually advise waiting at least a year or more after a caesarean before the next pregnancy.
Can I have an epidural during VBAC?
Yes, an epidural is usually possible during VBAC. Ask the hospital what pain relief it offers.
If VBAC does not work, what does a caesarean cost?
A planned caesarean on Mezo is from ₦950,000. An emergency caesarean in labour is priced separately, and both are set out in writing before your due date.
The procedures
Related health guides
More patient guides
Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Birth options after previous caesarean birth. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). Patient information.
- Caesarean birth. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 22 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.