Removing Race as a Factor in Birthing Decisions

While childbirth has become safer over time, there are still significant health risks involved. To help pregnant patients who have previously given birth via C-sections make informed birthing decisions, physicians can use a calculator to assess certain risks. Until 2021, race was one of the inputs used to determine the safety of certain birthing choices. Why was race considered relevant, and what impact did it have on Black and Hispanic patients? In this text, learn about the VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) calculator, a tool that physicians use to advise patients on their delivery options, and why race was ultimately removed as a variable in the calculator.