Back to Search Results

4/1/2017

Trial of Labor after Cesarean (TOLAC)

Options following a cesarean delivery include elective repeat cesarean delivery and trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC).  Successful TOLAC results in vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), and is estimated to be 60-80%.  No large, randomized trials have compared outcomes of TOLAC and elective repeat cesarean delivery.

A VBAC may decrease the potential risks associated with multiple cesarean deliveries, including abnormal placentation. Overall, successful VBAC is associated with less maternal complications then an elective repeat Cesarean birth., however benefits of elective repeat cesarean delivery include predictable timing, access for sterilization procedures and minimization of uterine rupture risk.

Although uterine rupture is a rare complication of TOLAC, approximately 25% will undergo a hysterectomy. Neonatal neurologic morbidity and neonatal death are also important considerations (3-6%).  If TOLAC is unsuccessful requiring an intrapartum cesarean delivery, the risks of infection and blood transfusion increase.  There does not appear to be an appreciable difference in risk to neonates born by VBAC and elective repeat cesarean delivery.

Characteristics of an optimal TOLAC candidate include a single prior low transverse cesarean delivery, with anticipated success rate of greater than 60% and 0.5% uterine rupture risk.  Other predictors of success include a history of vaginal delivery or VBAC, spontaneous onset of labor, and a non-recurring indication for the primary cesarean delivery.  An unknown uterine scar performed in the setting of usual indications for a low transverse cesarean is not a contraindication to a TOLAC.  Consideration should be given to gestational age, estimated fetal weight, and inter-pregnancy interval.

 Poor candidates for TOLAC include a classical, “T” or “J” hysterotomy, extensive transfundal surgery or any incision that extends through the active portion of the myometrium.  The risk of uterine rupture in this setting is 4-9%.  Patients with a history of uterine rupture or an obstetrical contraindication to vaginal delivery should not be offered the option for TOLAC.

There is insufficient data to know with certainty if TOLAC success or uterine rupture risk is altered with a prior low vertical hysterotomy, two or more low transverse hysterotomies or twin gestation.  While the need for induction or augmentation of labor decreases VBAC success, TOLAC may still be offered and undertaken in certain circumstances.  Prostaglandins should be avoided due to the increased risk of uterine rupture, although mechanical cervical ripening (e.g., transcervical foley catheter) may be offered to ripen an unfavorable cervix. Prostaglandin induction may be considered in the setting of fetal demise given the altered fetal risk profile.

Epidural analgesia does not mask signs or symptoms of uterine rupture or decrease the risk of successful TOLAC.  The most common sign of uterine rupture is a change in fetal heart tracing.  ACOG recommends TOLAC be undertaken where immediate emergency cesarean delivery can be performed.

Options including TOLAC and elective repeat cesarean delivery should be discussed early during prenatal care allowing time for consideration of resources, counseling, addressing questions or changes in status.  Calculators predicting the likelihood of achieving VBAC no longer include race and ethnicity in an effort to mitigate risks of health disparities.

Further Reading:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 205: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Delivery. Obstet Gynecol. 2019 Feb;133(2):e110-e127. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000003078.

Grobman WA, Sandoval G, Rice MM, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network. et al. Prediction of vaginal birth after cesarean delivery in term gestations: a calculator without race and ethnicity. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2021 May 24:S0002-9378(21)00587-1. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.05.021. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34043983.  Full version also available at: https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(21)00587-1/pdf

Initial Approval:  January 2017; Revised July 2018; Revised/Minor Update January 2020; Revised September 2021; Minor Revision May 2023.

 

********** Notice Regarding Use ************

The Society for Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inc. (“SASGOG”) is committed to accuracy and will review and validate all Pearls on an ongoing basis to reflect current practice.

This document is designed to aid practitioners in providing appropriate obstetric and gynecologic care. Recommendations are derived from major society guidelines and high-quality evidence when available, supplemented by the opinion of the author and editorial board when necessary. It should not be construed as dictating an exclusive course of treatment or procedure to be followed.

Variations in practice may be warranted when, in the reasonable judgment of the treating clinician, such course of action is indicated by the condition of the patient, limitations of available resources, or advances in knowledge or technology. SASGOG reviews the articles regularly; however, its publications may not reflect the most recent evidence. While we make every effort to present accurate and reliable information, this publication is provided “as is” without any warranty of accuracy, reliability, or otherwise, either express or implied. SASGOG does not guarantee, warrant, or endorse the products or services of any firm, organization, or person. Neither SASGOG nor its respective officers, directors, members, employees, or agents will be liable for any loss, damage, or claim with respect to any liabilities, including direct, special, indirect, or consequential damages, incurred in connection with this publication or reliance on the information presented.

Copyright 2023 The Society for Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inc. All rights reserved.  No re-print, duplication or posting allowed without prior written consent.

 

Back to Search Results