Trying for Pregnancy After a C-Section: Timing & Safety

Question
Hi, Seven weeks ago I lost my baby to vasa previa. I was 34 weeks pregnant. Sienna was born by emergency C-section. My husband and I are keen to try again but are unsure when my body is healthy enough to carry another baby. Please advise. Thank You.

Answer
Usually, your body will be back to normal by your six week post-op checkup. You should start getting regular periods by 8 weeks after the cesarean section. It is safe, at that time to conceive once again. However, ACOG recommends that, if you reach term within 18 months following a cesarean section, you should have a repeat cesarean section. If it is longer than that, you can safely attempt a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). The risk is due to a weakened area at the site of the scar from the cesarean. However, there is no risk of conceiving right away (as soon as you get your period).