Prepping for An Unmedicated VBAC: What I’m Doing Differently This Time

Pregnancy
Prepping for an Unmedicated VBAC: What I'm Doing Differently

We’re in the full swing of the third trimester with my fourth baby (truly—how is that possible?), which means it’s time to shift into full-blown baby mode. That includes continuing to prep for my goal of another VBAC—but this time, unmedicated.

Before I go on, let me be clear: this is not at all shaming c-section mamas. I’ve got my scar, too—right there with you! You can read about my c-section story here.

This is also not a judgment on women who choose medicated births. I’ve done that twice myself and honestly had great experiences! You can read about my first birth here and third birth here if you’re curious.

I’m choosing to go unmedicated this time because, over the course of three very different births, I’ve learned so much. And after everything I’ve consumed and processed, I genuinely believe I can do it. I want to prove that to myself.

That said, I’m holding this plan loosely—because the ultimate goal is always the safety of both baby and me.

With all of that, I figured it was a good idea to channel my hopeful, excited, and nervous energy—and the confidence I’ve found in this decision—into a blog post for you. If you’re even thinking about an unmedicated VBAC, I hope this gives you a solid starting point.

What I’m Doing Differently This Time

With my first birth, I didn’t do much birth education and had no clue what to expect. I was firmly Team Epidural and had an induction scheduled for the day after my due date. I ended up going into labor just hours before my induction, but still did the Pitocin, had my waters broken—basically all the things.

My second was an emergency cesarean at 32 weeks.

For my third, I went into labor naturally at 38w5d. I declined Pitocin (against my provider’s wishes) but still opted for an epidural since they said it would be best in case of uterine rupture. My water broke on its own, my uterus didn’t rupture, and overall, I’d say it was a good, successful VBAC experience.

But this time… I’m doing things differently.

While I’m still having a hospital birth, I’ve switched to a certified nurse midwife (CNM) for a few important reasons:

  • They fully support my desire for an unmedicated VBAC.
    I loved my previous provider, but she operated (like many do) from a “worst-case scenario” mindset. When I shared my birth goals with my midwife, she gently asked, “Do you trust us to handle it if worst-case scenario does happen?” And then reminded me the chance of that happening is less than 1%.
  • Their location is super kid- and family-friendly.
    I have kids. Sometimes I have to bring them. At my last appointment, they let my four-year-old use the Doppler to find the baby’s heartbeat—and she didn’t want to leave because they have an indoor, ice-cream-shop-themed play area. They never make me feel like bringing my kids is an inconvenience.
  • I’m more educated this time.
    (More on that in a minute!) But now, I feel like my midwife is walking with me—acknowledging what I know, respecting my decisions, and empowering me in the process.

How I’m Preparing Physically for an Unmedicated VBAC

For most of my pregnancy, I’ve counted chasing my toddlers as solid exercise (and let’s be honest—it is). I also usually did a YouTube workout like [this one] a few times a week.

Now I’m focusing on Spinning Babies Daily Activities to help baby get into an ideal position for labor. I try to get a walk in daily (usually on the treadmill since it’s a million degrees outside in Texas) and do a few of the activities consistently.

Here’s what else is part of my physical prep:

How I’m Preparing Mentally + Emotionally

Digging into natural birth prep, I’ve realized how crucial the mental and emotional side is. Honestly, I didn’t do much of this before—but this time I’m prioritizing it:

  • Christian Hypnobirthing:
    I bought the app and listen a few times a day, including while falling asleep. As birth gets closer, I’ll create a playlist of the ones that resonate most.
  • VBAC Birth Stories:
    Mostly through podcasts like The VBAC Link. I love hearing real, encouraging stories.
  • My Birth Playlist:
    Already listening to it often so it feels familiar and comforting when the time comes.
  • Ice Practice + Affirmations:
    I learned this from Lo at The Labor Mama—holding ice while repeating affirmations is such a good way to simulate labor sensations and get in the right mindset.
  • Writing My Own Affirmations:
    I’ll also print some from Your Body, Your Birth (more on this in a second) and tape them around my space.
  • Setting Boundaries Around My Birth Plans:
    Not everyone gets it—and that’s okay. I’ve learned I don’t need to share my whole plan with people who won’t be supportive.

What I’m Doing for Birth Education

Ahhh, this. This is what changed everything for me.

Even after three births, I realized that what I really needed was education that made me feel empowered.

Hospital classes are fine—but they barely scratch the surface.

This time, I’m working through two of Lo’s courses from The Labor Mama:

  • Deep Dive: VBAC
  • Your Body, Your Birth

I had started the VBAC course last time, but it was kind of late in the game. This time, I’m going all in—and it’s made me feel so much more confident and informed.

Here’s what I love about these courses:

  • She teaches you how birth actually works—without fear-based language.
  • There’s a full section on how to pivot when things don’t go to plan.
  • There are practical tools for breathing, understanding medical language, and setting up your birth preferences.
  • And my favorite? The partner support section. My husband and I are watching it together and it’s giving him real, tangible ways to support me this time around.

I’m not an affiliate, just a mega fan of the course and of Lo, she’s one of the best humans. Seriously, every birth plan—from medicated to unmedicated, induction to c-section—can benefit from this course. And right now, when you purchase Your Body, Your Birth, the VBAC course is included for free!

Check out YBYB here.

My Unmedicated VBAC Birth Plan + Must-Haves

I’m using Lo’s Birth Preferences + Priorities worksheet (included in the course and also available for free at thelabormama.com). It’s helping me clearly outline my ideal birth, while also prepping a backup plan in case another cesarean becomes necessary.

Here are a few of the physical items I’m bringing for labor + postpartum:

Creating a Supportive Birth Team

One of the biggest mindset shifts I’ve had this time around is realizing: I don’t have to do this alone—and I shouldn’t.

I’m being really intentional about who’s in the room, what role they’re playing, and how they’re helping me feel safe, supported, and seen.

Who’s on my team:

  • My Midwife:
    She’s not just VBAC-tolerant—she’s VBAC-supportive. She’s encouraged my birth plan from the start and never tried to sway me from going unmedicated.
  • My Husband:
    He’s been present for every birth, but this time, we’re preparing him more intentionally. I’ll need more from him, and he’s ready for that.

How we’re prepping together:

  • Watching videos on comfort measures + counterpressure
  • Reviewing my birth preferences so he can advocate for me
  • Talking through “don’t touch me” vs. “I need you” cues
  • Practicing breathwork together (even when it feels silly)
  • Working through Lo’s partner course section together

Just knowing he’s feeling confident helps me feel more confident.

Questions I asked my provider:

If you’re prepping for a VBAC, these are worth asking early:

  • What is your VBAC success rate?
  • What are the hospital’s VBAC policies?
  • Will I be able to move, eat, and use water during labor?
  • What’s the protocol for going past 40 weeks?
  • How do you handle a slow labor?
  • At what point would you recommend a repeat cesarean?

My provider’s answers gave me the reassurance I needed—I won’t have to fight for this VBAC. I’ll be supported through it.

Prayer + Mindset as a Christian Mama

One of the most important parts of my prep doesn’t come from a checklist or course—it comes from quieting my heart before the Lord.

Pregnancy stretches me in every way, but this time—prepping for an unmedicated VBAC—it’s also been an invitation to surrender early and often.

God designed my body to do this. He will be with me through every contraction, every breath, and every moment of surrender.

A verse I’m clinging to:

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You.”
— Isaiah 26:3

When the what-ifs creep in, this verse brings me back to the truth: peace doesn’t come from control—it comes from trust.

A simple prayer:

Lord, You know the desires of my heart for this birth. I surrender them to You. Help me walk into labor with peace, confidence, and trust—knowing You are with me, guiding each step. Let this birth be holy ground. Amen.

Final Thoughts + Encouragement

If you’re walking into birth hoping for a VBAC—or an unmedicated birth—or honestly, just a more peaceful experience—I want you to know: you’re not alone.

Preparing my heart, body, and mind has reminded me how strong we mamas are. Not just in labor, but in our choosing. In our trusting. In our surrendering.

No matter how my birth unfolds, I know this: I’ve done the work. I’ve prepared well. And I’m walking in with peace and confidence.

Whether your story looks like mine or something entirely different, you deserve to feel supported, educated, and empowered.

You are allowed to want a beautiful birth, youu are allowed to hope, and you are allowed to advocate for yourself.

And no matter what happens—you are already the perfect mama for that baby.

Stay tuned for the birth story… hopefully coming soon!

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