VBACs in Northeast Ohio: Empowering Birth Choices with Caitlin Chapman of Rhythms of Life

Mom smiling at husband while snuggling her fresh newborn after her delivery

For many birthing people, the path to a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is a deeply personal and sometimes challenging journey. In Northeast Ohio, support and access to evidence-based care make all the difference. We had the privilege of speaking with Caitlin Chapman, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Birth Doula, and Kangaroula behind Rhythms of Life Ohio, to talk all things VBAC. Where to go, what to know, and how to build the right support team.

💬 “People will experience a positive birth where they feel the safest.”

— Caitlin Chapman

🏥 Best VBAC-Supportive Hospital in Northeast Ohio? One Stands Out.

When asked to choose her favorite hospital in the region for VBAC support, Caitlin didn’t hesitate:

“If I had to choose one hospital in particular, it would be Summa (Akron City). Their midwifery team is truly wonderful. I have supported some beautiful births there.”

What sets Summa Akron City Hospital apart? According to Caitlin, it’s the people and the policies:

Midwifery-led care that centers compassion and evidence-based support.
Freedom to eat during labor—an often overlooked yet critical comfort measure.
Hydrotherapy options for natural pain relief.
Doulas welcomed in the OR for families who may need a repeat cesarean.

🏡 Surprise: A Safe and Supported Home VBAC?

Despite her praise for Summa, Caitlin adds a personal twist:

“If I was having my own VBAC, my choice might surprise some. I would choose a homebirth midwife I felt was competent in VBAC skills and maybe co-care if the need arises. Homebirth VBAC is a very safe choice when you build the right team.”

The key takeaway here? Informed choice and personal comfort matter. Whether at home or in a hospital, the safety of a VBAC often depends on having skilled, supportive providers and a plan tailored to the individual.

👩‍🍼 Why VBAC Clients Are Special

Caitlin shared her passion for supporting VBAC births, noting:

“I LOVE having VBAC clients, I wish I had more of them! There are never enough. I think my favorite part is that they are always ‘hungry’—for knowledge, for research, for information, for options.”

VBAC families tend to dig deep, seek answers, and want to actively improve their birth experience. Caitlin’s goal? To match that energy with unwavering support.

💡 What Every VBAC Parent Should Know

So what’s Caitlin’s most important piece of advice?

“Get very familiar with your pregnancy, labor and birth options. Not every decision needs to be made right away—ask for proof of evidence-based information, a private conversation with your support people or just time to consider.”

In a fast-paced medical environment, slowing down, asking questions, and asserting your right to informed decision-making can be empowering and transformative.

🤝 The Power of a VBAC-Savvy Doula

When it comes to support, Caitlin calls herself the:

“Birth and Breastfeeding Bestie!”

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

A clear, unbiased voice after medical appointments.
A go-to for interpreting medical terminology and discussing next steps.
A constant in the labor room: hip-squeezer, breath coach, and emotional rock.

Whether you’re laboring at home, in a birth center, or in a hospital, having a doula who understands VBAC births can be a game changer.

📝 Final Tips from Caitlin

“Interview a BUNCH of doulas to find someone who fits your birth ‘vibe’ and understands your goals. But PLEASE also do this with your provider!”

Not every provider is VBAC-friendly. Caitlin emphasizes the importance of finding a care team that:

Listens deeply.
Sees VBACs often.
Honors physiological birth.
Doesn’t use fear or ultimatums to push decisions.

And remember:

“P.S. You can change providers at any time, too.”

🌿 The Bottom Line

VBACs are not only possible, they can be empowering, healing, and transformative. With the right team, evidence-based care, and a deep trust in your body, your birth story can be one of strength and joy.

Thank you, Caitlin Chapman of Rhythms of Life Ohio, for your honest insights and passionate commitment to helping families birth with confidence.

📷 Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

Whether you’re preparing for your VBAC or have just welcomed your little one into the world—congratulations! This is such a meaningful chapter in your life, and I’d be truly honored to help you capture it.

In addition to newborn sessions, I also offer Fresh 48 sessions—taken within the first 48 hours after birth, either at home or in the hospital. These intimate, unposed sessions beautifully document those early hours of bonding, snuggles, and newness you’ll never want to forget. Fresh 48s are available at local hospitals and homes in Cleveland, Akron, and Wooster.

Newborn sessions are best scheduled within the first 2–3 weeks after birth. I offer both in-home lifestyle sessions and cozy studio options, so you can choose the setting that feels most like you. Together, we’ll capture the tiny details, the sleepy cuddles, and the overflowing love that fills your space.

👉 Click here to book your newborn session or reach out with any questions. I’d love to help you create timeless, heartfelt images of your growing family.

To Learn more about my own personal VBAC story visit my blog post Healing After A Traumatic Birth: My VBAC Story, Resources and Support in Northeast Ohio