Dr. Colleen P. Kirk’s article, “Owning the Birth Experience: What Factors Influence Women’s Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Decision,” also written by Yasmine L. Konheim-Kalkstein, Kristen Berish, and Kathleen M. Galotti, was recently published in the Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology.

With concerns rising among medical professionals and administrators about the growing numbers of cesarean deliveries in the United States, the article discusses the factors that lead women to choose a vaginal birth after they have had a cesarean section (VBAC). The study involved recruiting a sample of women through online sources. The eligible pregnant women involved in the study were asked to participate in an online survey, and data was collected over two years. Measurements were taken through Likert scales to determine the women’s feelings as well as influences in their decision-making processes.

The results of the study showed that VBAC decisions are influenced mostly by women’s desire to experience the vaginal birth process. Women who attempt VBAC typically have specific attitudes and beliefs about birthing, such as the importance of having a vaginal birth with minimal drugs throughout the experience. The research also showed that women are more likely to have a repeat cesarean section if they believe medical professionals control the outcome of the birthing process. However, when women felt they were more in control of their birth than doctors and nurses, they were more likely to choose VBAC, especially when they desired a vaginal birth experience. On the other hand, women also consider factors such as risk of cosmetic damage from cesarean surgery and physical trauma to the vaginal area from vaginal birth.

The end of the article describes the overall findings of the study. Konheim-Kalkstein, Kirk, Berish, and Galotti state, “Overall, this research suggests that if medical professionals can assist and support women who desire the experience of a vaginal birth by fostering their sense of internal effectance and competence, overall rates of choosing VBAC will increase. Involving women in the decision process and letting them know that their opinions matter can be a major factor in a woman’s birthing decision. Also, women may be more likely to choose VBAC if they hold true to their internal belief that they are made to perform a vaginal birth and can actually successfully perform one.”

Dr. Colleen P. Kirk’s research centers around consumer behavior, especially in the areas of psychological ownership, emotions, and decision-making. In addition to medical decision-making, her award-winning research often focuses on other practical contexts such as investment decision-making and consumers’ use of digital technologies.

By Konstance Teleisha