I am a resident of Des Moines, Iowa and like many others I face limited options when it comes to birthing methods post cesarean surgery. More specifically, we lack hospitals that offer Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) delivery under the guidance of a midwife. Currently, the only options available for a VBAC are a home birth with a midwife, a hospital birth with an OBGYN (of which there are few supportive options), or to travel outside of Des Moines. 

The restriction to access VBAC with a midwife at Broadlawns limits the choices of women like me, and many others who prefer the supportive care provided by midwifery. It is a widely known fact that VBAC is a safe and suitable birth option for many women, as studies have estimated successful VBAC rates among eligible women to be nearly 60-80% (American Pregnancy Association). 

Per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), trial of labor after previous cesarean delivery should be attempted at facilities capable of performing emergency deliveries. A facility who offers labor & delivery services, should also be offering VBAC. Broadlawns, like other facilities, have procedures and protocols for preparedness of emergency delivery situations. These procedures and protocols apply to all women regardless of previous birth history.

Midwives have the necessary expertise to manage VBAC, their approach supports natural birthing process and they offer a high degree of personalized care. The World Health Organization endorses midwifery-led care as a means to improve quality of care, giving women the best chance of a safe and positive birthing experience.

This is why I am urging Broadlawns to change its policy and allow their midwives to take lead in VBAC procedures. We, residents of Polk County, should have the ability to choose our birth method without the need to travel or compromise on our preferred care provider. By signing this petition, you are supporting the call for greater birth choices for women in our community. 

Please sign to urge the Broadlawns’ Board of Trustees and leadership to allow VBAC supportive care to be provided by its midwives.