Trial of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC) is an attempt to labor with the intention of achieving a vaginal birth after a previous cesarean delivery.
TOLAC is a process or planned approach, not an outcome. If the person gives birth vaginally, the outcome is called vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). If a repeat cesarean becomes necessary, the attempted TOLAC has not resulted in a VBAC.
Not every woman is a suitable candidate for TOLAC. Whether TOLAC is appropriate depends on factors such as the type of previous uterine incision, number and circumstances of previous cesareans, current pregnancy, availability of emergency surgical care, and individual clinical considerations.
QUICK FACT
TOLAC and VBAC are not synonyms: TOLAC describes the attempt; VBAC describes the successful vaginal birth.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).
SEE ALSO