VBAC Friendly Providers in Denver
One of the things I love most about my job is helping folks find the right providers for their pregnancies and birth. When a client reaches out to me about finding a care provider, I always begin the conversation by asking questions. Because the right provider for one person…might not be the right provider for someone else.
We are all unique with complex histories and values. There isn’t one best VBAC provider because every person who VBACs has different goals and dreams for their birth experience.
But I did want to share a NON-COMPREHENSIVE list of VBAC providers in the Denver area. I share some of my experiences and thoughts as a doula and birth photographer…but please know that YOU are always the best person to make the choice for your birth and your baby. I do think we are very lucky to live in a city that has ample options (from home to hospital) for families that want a VBAC. I know that not all places and communities are as blessed with providers and birth locations that are supportive.
All that being said: don’t be afraid to ask questions, to change your mind, and to even switch providers if you feel like you’re original choice isn’t working out for you. Sometimes you might find that a provider is open to a VBAC but not necessarily super supportive of the process. I also included a list of questions you can ask your provider to determine where they fall on that spectrum.
Homebirth VBAC Providers in the Denver Area
Many families desiring a VBAC are also recovering from what might have been a difficult or traumatic hospital birth. As many of us know, common hospital interventions can increase the rate and likelihood of a cesarean. Alternatively, we also know that homebirth midwives have a much lower rate of cesarean births, as well as very high VBAC success rate, than traditional OB/GYNs.
Many folks that choose a homebirth for their VBAC do so because they want a care provider who fully believes and supports their decision to VBAC. Homebirth midwives are often just as committed to the idea of VBAC as their clients are! Homebirth midwives are skilled and trained providers, who know how to support physiological birth. They also know when to transfer if it becomes apparent that either mom or baby aren’t tolerating labor well.
It’s important to note that there are a few restrictions on VBAC with homebirth midwives in Colorado. The birthing person often must meet the following requirements to work with a certified professional midwife (homebirth):
no c-section within 18 months
if you have prior multiple c-sections a subsequent vaginal delivery has already occurred
no prior classical or vertical incision
live greater than 30 minutes to a suitable hospital facility
Below is a non-exclusive list of homebirth providers that enjoy supporting VBAC birth (there are many more but these are folks I work with on a regular basis):
Peace, Love, & Shari
Meadowstreet Midwifery
Gina Penka of MoonBabies Midwifery
Jen Anderson Tarver
Hospital VBAC Providers in the Denver Area
While there are many reasons folks decide to VBAC at home, there are many people who prefer to be in the hospital when attempting a VBAC. The benefits of being at the hospital are quick access to an operating room, as well as the availability of continuous monitoring of baby.
One important note about safety: Overall, giving birth at home OR the hospital is a very safe choice for most folks attempting a VBAC. Please talk to your provider about the absolute risk of complications with VBAC vs the risks of complications from another surgery.
Just because you decide to give birth in the hospital…doesn’t mean you can’t work with a midwife. There are many wonderful midwife groups in Denver that do an amazing job supporting VBAC families!
Center for Midwifery at UCH
Denver Health Midwives
Both of these midwife groups provide wonderful care and have exceptional VBAC success rates. Please ask your provider what their primary cesarean rate is…as well as their VBAC rate. As a healthcare consumer, you deserve to know the answers to these questions!
I also always encourage folks to consult with Dr. Matthew Breeden, as well as the Denver Health Team if you are interested in attempting a potentially more complicated VBACs (VBA2c, VBA3C). While most providers will encourage a cesarean birth after two more cesareans…some providers are open to a TOLAC ater informed consent.
Questions to ask your doctor or provider to see if they are VBAC friendly….
General philosophy on VBAC:
How do you feel about supporting VBAC?
Do you support VBAC after multiple cesareans (TOLAC)?
Experience and success rates:
How many VBACs have you attended?
What is your VBAC success rate? *Ideally, you want a provider with a high VBAC success rate.
Can you share your C-section rate for low-risk pregnancies? *A low C-section rate overall can indicate a provider who is more likely to support VBAC.
VBAC process and management:
What are the criteria for VBAC candidates in your practice?
Do you have specific protocols for monitoring VBAC labors?
What is your philosophy on interventions during VBAC labor (e.g., induction, epidurals)?
Do you support alternative birthing positions during VBAC labor?
In what situations would you recommend a repeat cesarean section?
Additional considerations:
Does your hospital support VBAC deliveries? *Research the C-section rates at your chosen hospital.
Do your backup providers also support VBAC?
Is there a chance to meet your backup providers beforehand?
By asking these questions, you can get a good sense of your provider's experience and comfort level with VBAC. You can also assess how well their approach aligns with your birth preferences.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful: