C-section Specialist

Timothy A. Leach, MD, Inc.

OB-GYNs located in Walnut Creek, CA

A C-section doesn't have to mean that there is no hope for a vaginal birth in the future. Dr. Timothy A. Leach is an OB/GYN serving the Walnut Creek, CA area, and he can help patients achieve the birth experience they want.

VBAC Q & A

What is a VBAC?

A Vaginal Birth After Cesarean happens when a woman delivers a baby vaginally, but her last baby was delivered via cesarean. All women who have had a previous low-transverse uterine incision are candidates for VBAC.  Dr. Leach offer the option of VBAC where over 85% of our patients attempting a VBAC, deliver vaginally.  Women who plan on more than two children should strongly consider VBAC to minimize the need for future cesareans which comes with increased risk.

What is a Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC)?

A Trial of Labor After Cesarean, often referred to as a TOLAC, simply refers to the attempt for a vaginal birth following a cesarean birth.  At John Muir Walnut Creek's Labor and Delivery unit, there are always two obstetricians, anesthesiologist, and pediatrician in the hospital 24/7 for the rare need for emergency cesarean.

What Are the Benefits of Planning For a TOLAC Rather Than a Scheduled Cesarean?

If a woman can deliver her baby vaginally, she will not have to undergo the major abdominal surgery that is a Cesarean section. This makes for less bleeding, a reduced risk of infection, and a faster recovery. Women who plan to have more children in the future may find that opting for vaginal birth after a cesarean can help avoid the problems associated with multiple cesareans. Possible problems caused by multiple Cesarean sections include bladder injury, blood transfusion, placental issues, and possible hysterectomy.

Does a Breech Positioned Baby Eliminate the Possibility of VBAC?

Not at all. It depends on the specific situation, however. In some cases, an experienced OB/GYN like Dr. Leach will be able to reposition the baby into a vertex position by a procedure called External Cephalic Version (ECV), which turns the baby ~80% of time so that your baby can be safely delivered vaginally. At all times, the best health of both the mom and the baby is our first concern. Therefore, it is extremely important for a woman to build a strong relationship with her OB/GYN so that she can turn to them for advice and guidance when there are any questions or concerns about the birth.

Insurance

We accept several insurance plans from many different providers. If you do not see your provider listed here, please give us a call and we will let you know if you are covered.

Aetna
Anthem
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Health Net
Humana
United Healthcare