Did you know that the cesarean section rate in the United States in 1970 was 5.5%? And according to the CDC, the cesarean section rate for 2012 was reported as 32.8%. That’s a pretty dramatic increase in major surgeries, don’t you think?
Let me begin by saying that there is no denying that cesarean sections, when used appropriately, save lives. That is not what I am discussing with you today. As a registered nurse who has worked in Labor and Delivery for the past decade, I am concerned and alarmed by the fact that 1 out of every 3 women who give birth in this country does so via major abdominal surgery.
It is my opinion that many of the surgical births that happen are unnecessary and avoidable. Yes, breech babies happen and many times twins need to be born by cesarean section. And I know that most hospitals nowadays do not allow VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean.) But there are many healthy women who, with a little bit of knowledge and planning, can greatly reduce their risk for cesarean section.
NOTE: This article was written to educate and to shed light on a topic that is not often discussed. There is a casual attitude that has developed over the years regarding surgical deliveries of babies. My intention is not to frighten nor to make people feel bad about having surgical deliveries. My intention is to report facts about the risks of surgical deliveries and other interventions surrounding our birth culture so we can all make the best and most educated choices for ourselves and our families. . I deeply understand that sometimes there is no other choice. And I am grateful that we have capable surgeons at those times.
The Risks of Cesarean Section Births:
FOR MAMA:
- increased risk of maternal death (3-4 times that of a vaginal birth)
- between 20-40% of women who have cesarean section have postpartum complications (hemorrhage, uterine infections, wound infection, UTIs)
- 5 times more likely to get antibiotics than with vaginal birth
- Increased chances of ectopic pregnancy and difficulty conceiving later on
- greater chance of breech presentation with subsequent pregnancies
- delay of establishing a good milk supply (leading to giving up more easily on breastfeeding)
- less satisfaction with birth experience
FOR BABY:
- Increased risk of respiratory issues, blood sugar issues, and temperature regulation issues
- Risk of premature delivery as pregnancy dating is not always accurate
- Altered gut flora (research has consistently shown that babies born via cesarean section have altered fecal microbes compared with vaginally born babies. And since over 70% of our immune function comes from the gut, this has a huge impact on the over all immune health of babies.)
- Increased risk for asthma and allergies (due to the fact that cesarean babies have have impaired immune cell function because of suppression of regulatory T cells, which regulate the development and function of the immune system.)
- Increased risk of obesity later in life (one study found that children born by cesarean delivery were 15% more likely to become obese during follow-up than those born by vaginal delivery; those born via cesarean delivery had 64% higher odds of obesity compared with their siblings born via vaginal delivery.)
6 Ways to Avoid a Cesarean Section:
1. Live a healthy lifestyle:
Birth is a complicated process that involved many hormones and muscle groups. Having your body is tip top shape will increase the chances that all will go as it should. Eating a REAL food diet and avoiding processed foods will help your body be at it’s healthiest and will help you avoid issues like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes (all which increase your risk for cesarean section.) Read more HERE about getting started on a REAL food diet.
Research shows that sedentary women are 4x as likely to deliver via caesarean section as women who did aerobic exercise during the first or second trimester.
2. Choose your provider wisely:
One of the most revealing questions you can ask your provider is what his or her primary cesarean section rate is. This gives you a good idea of their birth practices and philosophies around birth. Also be sure to ask them what facility they use for deliveries so you can find out what their primary cesarean section rate is as well.
Having someone in your corner who agrees that vaginal birth is the best and safest for mom and baby is important. It has been my experience over the past 10 years that there are varying degrees of agreement on this topic. Some practitioners seem to advocate much more strongly for vaginal birth then others.
3. Educate yourself:
Knowledge is power. Get familiar with the birth process and what to expect. This will reduce anxiety and allow you to enter birth with a much more relaxed state of mind. You and your partner will also be more prepared when decision-making time comes.
Having a good understanding of labor will make it easier not to run to the hospital in early labor. Showing up at the hospital too early will increase the chances that you have some sort of intervention. And interventions will increase the risk that you have a cesarean section.
4. Avoid induction of labor:
Over the past decade, I have witnessed an alarming trend of increasing inductions of labor. Be aware that this seemingly safe practice has been shown in studies to more than double your risk of cesarean section.
It is becoming more and more common for practitioners to induce all women before 41 weeks gestation. Be sure to educate yourself on the research before agreeing to be induced before you are actually post-term. Trying to force things when your cervix is not soft and ready to open can increase your risk for cesarean section.
5. Know the facts about interventions:
The casual attitude around interventions in birth has contributed to the rise in cesarean sections. Be aware that augmentation with pitocin and labor epidurals both have been shown to increase your risk for surgical birth.
Yes, I know that there will be folks to tell me that this is not true, but I speak from experience. Continuous fetal monitoring, early epidurals, confinement to bed, early breaking of bag of water, and pitocin augmentation can all increase your risk for cesarean section.
Women need to move during labor. This is an integral part of bringing baby down. Laying in bed will slow things down, increasing your risk for cesarean section.
Prematurely breaking the bag of water can lead to maternal fevers which can increase your risk for cesarean section.
Labor epidurals can reduce maternal blood pressure and compromise fetal well being. Did you know that epidurals also greatly interfere with the complicated hormonal balance of labor? Epidurals reduce the production of natural oxytocin and keep it from going up in labor. We need that oxytocin to make birth happen. This in itself will increase your risk for cesarean birth.
Pitocin increase the force of labor and makes more interventions more likely. But that’s not all. Let’s take a look at the info provided in the warning from the package insert of pitocin .
Risks to Baby:
- bradycardia (slow hear rate)
- permanent brain damage
- increased jaundice
- risk of seizure
- low apgar scores
- fetal death
Risks for mom:
- Anaphylactic reaction
- maternal hemorrhage
- nausea/vomiting
- cardiac arrhythmias
- high blood pressure
- uterine rupture
Any and all of these complication if they happen during labor will increase your risk for surgical birth.
6. Surround yourself with good support:
Having someone who shares your philosophies around birth will help you to avoid cesarean birth. Did you know that having a doula as your support person can reduce your chance of cesarean section by over 40%? Doulas are trained in relaxation techniques, massage, positioning, and birth information. A doula can be your advocate during labor. Doulas are also associated with shorter labors, less need for pain medication, increased breastfeeding rates, and less vacuum-assisted births.
And having good support will enable you to stay home longer when your labor does start. Rushing to the hospital at the first sign of a contraction increases your risk for having interventions. My recommendation would be to labor at home as long as possible in the comfort of your own home.
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I want to end by saying that birth is an amazing experience that we go through only a few times in life. I come from a place of complete respect and awe of the entire process. I do, however, acknowledge that interventions and surgical procedures save lives. And I, in no way, want to be judgmental towards the choices women make in birthing their babies. My hope is only to educate and empower women to have the births that they desire.
I hope that some of you out there find this information useful.
Did I leave anything out? I would love to hear if you have any other suggestions.
Sources:
- http://theunnecesarean.com/blog/2010/3/18/united-states-cesarean-rates-by-year-1970-to-2007.html#sthash.uDqOmEy5.dpbs
- http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/delivery.htm
- http://www.webmd.com/baby/news/20080521/c-section-tied-to-childhood-asthma
- http://chriskresser.com/natural-childbirth-vii-c-section-risks-and-complications
- http://chriskresser.com/natural-childbirth-vi-pitocin-side-effects-and-risks
- http://chriskresser.com/natural-childbirth-v-epidural-side-effects-and-risks
Photo credit: depositphotos.com / andresr and shalamov
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MamaV says
My first was born via c-section after 30ish hours of labor at home… His heart tones were bad and my midwife transferred me for a c-section. I was SO BUMMED.
When my second came along, I was determined to avoid a c-section if at all possible… I labored for nearly 48 hours at home and then had to transfer to a hospital as my midwife was not comfortable with my lack of progression. Fortunately at the hospital I got an AWESOME CNM who pushed me like crazy to get my VBAC… After 12 more hours of labor, an epidural, and Pitocin, I delivered my 2nd with just a few pushes. It was amazing! I would definitely do it again! Next time I will try to go drug free, but whatever gets me a vaginal birth is good for me!
Katja says
After being a Labor and Delivery nurse for a long time, I have seen too many c-sections in my day. I am so glad that you were able to have a VBAC. You are lucky that there was that midwife there advocating for you. Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂
Iddrisu Nana Mariam says
How old was ur first baby before uot pregnant? I heard if ur first c section didn’t last for 18or24months ur chances of having another is high
Kristina says
Thank you for posting this! I hope every expecting mother will read this and educate themselves before giving into a c-section.
Katja says
thanks so much for the kind feedback!
Mal says
I am expecting twins and I desperately want a natural delivery but it’s almost as if my Dr shuts me down the very second I even mention natural delivery. How do I go about this situation? This is our first successful pregnancy past 12 wks, I am at 17 wks now and I want to have a well established birthing plan ahead of time!
Katja says
Blessings on your growing babies! How wonderful! Twins is a tricky situation. My experience has been that most doctors TRY for natural delivery as long as baby A is head down close to due date (or when they pressure you to induce.) What I mostly see is delivery in the operating room just in case Baby B goes breech. I have seen MANY successful vaginal twin deliveries where both babies have been vertex (head down.) Your best bet is to find a doctor who is supportive of your desires to attempt natural delivery. Chances are if your doctor is not willing to even discuss it, it is not in his/her plan. Having a supportive birth team is crucial to having the experience that you desire. I know many doctors who are supportive of natural deliveries for twins, as long as everyone is safe. I think having a birth plan is an excellent idea but remember that it is a plan, and plans shift and change. Parenting has been the biggest lesson in letting go and going with the flow for me. I would be happy to answer any other questions that you have. Happy birthing to you!
Antoinyce says
Thanks so much for this article and for this specific feedback to the writer!! I am also expecting twins (due August 2017) and am really desiring a natural delivery! I know that many doctors do not recommend even trying for natural delivery with twins, but, thankfully, my team supports natural delivery, as long as babies and I are doing fine in the process. I am just praying for safe and healthy babies, and prayerfully I am able to deliver them vaginally.
Have you ever experienced a natural twin birth without intervention of medicine (i.e. pitocin, epidural, etc.)? This makes me a little skeptical, as usually I hear that, at least for twins, an epidural is almost always recommended.
Thanks so much again – this has been so helpful!!
Katja Heino says
Hi, there!
You have a fabulous attitude about all of this. The best end result is a healthy baby (or babies!) From my experience, most twin deliveries happen in the Operating Room – just in case a c-section has to be done. The thought is that even if both babies are head down, there is a chance that the second baby can turn. That being said, I have seen twin birth happen without an epidural and/or pitocin. I have seen many variation of twin deliveries. Some epidurals in the OR. Some with pitocin to bring the second baby down and out. And some with very little intervention. What I would recommend is to keep talking with your care team. Make sure you are all on the same page. Request minimal interventions and be sure your support people know your desires. And then be open to whatever happens. I have been around birth for many years and have found that there is not rhyme or reason to it all. Birth happens the way that it happens. All you can do is to do your best to prepare yourself and to pick a team who best supports your plan. Blessings on your growing family!!
Sarah says
I opened the different links that you included in pink. Two of the links when opened have an ad “The Free Better Than Paleo Cookbook” over the actual article. There is no way to close the advertisement and I do not want to give the advertisement my information. How do I read these articles? How do I get rid of the advertisement? Thank you.
Katja says
Hi, Sarah! I just checked all of the links and did not get that pop up. Was it on Chris Kresser’s site. If it is a pop up, there should be a way to close it. Look carefully. They can be tricky to see. And try again. Pop ups should not keep repeating so it may not pop up if you go to the site again. Let me know if you still can’t close the pop up. 🙂
Amanda says
My water broke naturally with my first, but the labor wasn’t progressing and I was induced. There was a possibility of a c-section, but luckily I was able to have baby vaginally. He’s 4 and healthy. I think we’ve gotten away from letting the body do things naturally – we’ve gotten hasty with our decisions. I am now pregnant with my 2nd and I have a different obgyn who told me straight out that she doesn’t induce unless it’s medically necessary. She says the baby will come when the baby is ready. Love it. I couldn’t agree more. Love this article.
Katja says
Hi, Amanda! I see it all of the time. People seem in such a hurry to get the process done. No respect for the natural process. We, as a culture, have really drifted away from looking at nature to show us the way. How wonderful that you have a supportive provider this time. Many blessings on your new baby. 🙂
Nicole says
I had a csection due to having pre-eclampsia in which the only cure for it is for delivery of the baby. They first tried and tried to induce me but my body was just not ready to deliver a baby so it ended in a csection. The only thing that went wrong was I lost quite a bit of blood so I felt like I was gonna black out and yes it hurts for a couple weeks and is definitely a much longer recovery than a vaginal birth but I got no infections, my daughter is perfectly fine and healthy. I disagree with it ruins the birth experience. At first I was bummed but it came down to a life or death situation for both or either one of us so I had to outweigh the risks and benefits. It was still an amazing experience still hearing my daughter cry and seeing her for the very first time.
Katja says
Nicole-
I totally get what you are saying. A healthy mom and baby is what we want. And having a c-section is not a failure. I wrote this post from the perspective that there are many more risks to c-sections deliveries. It’s proven by research that there is a higher incidence of complication like infections and blood loss after surgical deliveries. I have seen MANY first hand. I am so happy that you have such a positive outlook on your experience. All births and beautiful and miraculous. Thanks so much for coming by! 🙂
Joann says
I was in labor at home for a full day before I finally went to the hospital to have my daughter. My contractions were right on top of each other but I wouldn’t dialate 🙁 and to make matters worse, my on was on vacation so my entire plan went out the window! I ended up having to get pitocin. Luckily the ob on call was AMAZING and he made me very comfortable with everything going on. I pushed for about 7 minutes and actually grabbed my daughter under her armpits and pulled her the rest of the way out. It was the most amazing experience in my life. Well after about 4 months of being a new mommy, I found out I was pregnant again. And this pregnancy is hell. I’m now 34 weeks and am having a lot of trouble moving around and simply finding energy to be active and take care of my daughter. I’m so nervous that my lack of activity, and my constant pain and nausea/vomiting is going to effect how my labor goes. My biggest fear is a c section. Is it too late for me to prepare my body for labor? I’ve really been slacking through out this pregnancy.
Katja says
Hi, Joann! Closely spaced pregnancies can be very hard on the body. I can see why you aren’t feeling your best. Pregnancy and childbirth is very depleting on our bodies. It’s hard to give specific advice because I don’t know your specific situation. But I can say that getting plenty of rest, plenty of water, moderate exercise, and SUPER nutrition during these final weeks can really give your body the boost it probably needs. I would suggest really looking at your diet. I would remove ALL processed foods. I would concentrate on HIGH quality, properly-sourced proteins to really build your stores. By this I mean eggs from pastured chicken, grass fed (and raw) dairy, and grass fed meats. Beef, lamb, and pork from clean sources is some of the most nutrient-dense foods out there. Liver is even better. Best superfood for pregnant mamas. If you can’t stomach it, there are dessicated liver pills that you can take. Here’s some info on liver—> https://www.savorylotus.com/do-you-know-this-superfood-liver/ This would REALLY give you a boost over the next few weeks. If you are nauseous, a good quality homemade bone broth can do wonders. So deeply nourishing. Also, make sure that you are getting enough good quality fats- real fats. You can read my post here–>https://www.savorylotus.com/top-5-healthy-fats/ A good resource for pregnancy diet is this—> http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/diet-for-pregnant-and-nursing-mothers/
And most importantly, I would recommend finding ways to de-stress. Stress can be exhausting. I know having a little one is so much work. Can you find some time for some self-care? Can you enlist a bit of help for the next few weeks. I know that I feel the most overwhelmed when I am completely taxed and wiped out.
And remember: Your body knows how to do this. It has done it before. Trust in your ability to birth this baby. Be easy on yourself. You have a lot going on right now. Sending you blessing for an easy and smooth birth! 🙂
Kemquin says
I came to this post via pinterest and although it is an old post, I am commenting since it seems to be doing the rounds. I do not understand why you are recommending that pregnant women should eat liver. This strikes me as exceedingly irresponsible since it is generally recommended that pregnant women avoid liver during pregnancy as too much Vitamin A has been linked to birth defects. Safe dietary sources of vitamin A include carotenoids from fruits and vegetables.
Moreover, raw dairy can also be dangerous to consume during pregnancy because – – listeria. Fair deuce if you want to recommend these foods anyway. But people should be aware of the risks.
You also fail to note that the reason induction may be offered at 41 weeks is that at 42 weeks the rate of stillbirths begins to increase. At 42 weeks the likelihood that you will have a c-section also increases.
And finally, I find the tone of this article just really silly. Maternal and infant mortality dropped steeply over the course of the twentieth century, so it’s easy to overlook the historical cost of childbirth: the millions of women and babies who died because they did not have access to medical interventions. Many, many, many inductions and c-sections are medically necessary. This is not to say that the rate of c-section isn’t too high, only to suggest that the vast bulk of women who undergo these procedures do not have a choice in the matter. There is something really distasteful in suggesting that we get very many choices when it comes to childbirth.
Frankly I find it perplexing that women are ever told to trust in nature with regards to childbirth, when nature doesn’t care whether you live or die.
Katja Heino says
Hi, there! I would like to address some of your concerns. I want to first address that fact that getting your Vitamin A from animal sources is actually a healthier and efficient method than trying to get it from vegetable sources. It is unfortunate that the FDA regulations allow food processors to label carotenes as vitamin A. There is much misinformation in the general public about Vitamin A, carotenes, and retinols. Many people do not know that the best sources of true Vitamin A are butter, egg yolks, liver, organ meats and shellfish. The notion that liver should be avoided in pregnancy is an interesting topic. Have you actually read the research where this came from? It came from a single 1995 study in Boston that if you actually take a look at the study, you can see that the study has many inherent flaws. It’s important to really look at research before making generalizations that simply may not be true. There is much research that supports the consumption of liver and other whole foods that contain Vitmin A in pregnancy. A great place to learn more is —> http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/abcs-of-nutrition/vitamin-a-saga/
I am also aware of the risks of post-term pregnancies. I do not argue that. But having worked in the field for over a decade, the number of soft-call post dates inductions is quite high. I do not consider being one day after your due date “post dates.” That is the point that I am making in my article. It is a fact that more and more women are being unnecessarily induced. I see it all of the time.
I am always surprised how triggering this topic is for folks. My intention is to help educate women who are looking for the best birth experience possible. It is a fact that increased c-section rates lead to increased mortality and morbidity. I agree that c-sections save lives , but that is not what I am talking about here. I am in support of natural labor whenever possible. It is better for mom, and it is better for baby. It is better for bonding, breastfeeding, and overall recovery. There is also much research on the fact that it is better for the overall health of the child later in life as well. I do not consider any of this silly. It is something that I am passionate about. I have witnessed over and over again in my 20 years of assisting women in birth that the more we let nature take it’s course , the easier things are and the better the outcome. And the more that we interfere, the more complications I have seen.
Yes, it is true that we are seeing more and more health issues in women that lead to more complications in birth. That is also a topic I am passionate about. I encourage women to take a look at their health and nutrition BEFORE getting pregnant to help avoid some of the issues like gestational diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, and high blood pressure. It is my hope that conventional medicine starts looking at the the research that shows that preconception is the best time top start eating healthy and living a clean lifestyle.
Have a sweet day!
Dannicalliope says
My mother nearly died from her c-section in 1983. She lost four pints of blood from hemorrhaging in the operating room! Then, to have me in 1986, her doctor flat out refused to consider a VBAC so she was forced to have another c-section. Fortunately, she had no complications with that one.
When I got pregnant this year, I immediately started researching natural birth (I’m a biologist, so it made sense to me to try to do things to way the body was designed to do them before seeking medical help). When I told my mother some of the scarier facts about c-sections, she was amazed. NO ONE had told her any of the information that I have found (which is pretty much the same as you have posted) and yet she was forced to have TWO. As a result, she is very supportive of me wanting a natural birth and plans to be in room with my husband, my doula, my midwife and myself. We are having our baby at a natural friendly hospital and my doula as well as several other women in my area vouch for the hospital as being as hands off as possible. Reading your post was validation, because so many people have expressed their disbelief of disapproval of me wanting a natural, unmedicated birth. Thanks!
Katja says
Thanks for sharing your story! It really made my day. Like I said, C-sections save lives in emergencies but are not benign. I think it’s great that you are creating the birth that you want. Women have been having babies for thousands and thousands of years before all of the interventions came out. And if you look at statistics, they haven’t really made birth any safer. Blessings on your upcoming birth and your growing family. How special that your mom gets to be there. What a gift for you both!
Nicole says
I was only 19 when I had my first child and two days after my due date my ob/gyn told me she thought my daughter would get stuck in the birth canal. At my last ultrasound she was estimated to weigh 8lbs 4oz and she said a c-section would be best, so hesitant, my boyfriend and I agreed. I had no complications and she is now 7 years oldand perfectly healthy. With my son I was determined to have a vaginal birth.. My water broke a month early, without any contractions. After 2 1/2 days and only progressing to 2 cm my doctor told me I needed the c-section. I was so devastated. My now husband and I are considering adding to our family but I’ve heard doctors won’t even let me attempt a vaginal birth because I bn have had 2 c-sections. I really want the experience of “giving birth” is there a possibility of that happening for me?
Katja says
Nicole, This is a tricky situation as only your provider can decide if he/she feels comfortable with a VBAC after 2 c-sections. You would have to interview providers to find that out. Unfortunately, the guidelines for VBACs are getting tighter and tighter. And fewer providers are willing to do them. I can hear your desire for a vaginal birth. However, please remember that a healthy mama and babe is the ultimate perfect birth. In the long run, it doesn’t matter how our children get here. We just want everyone to be safe. I would encourage you to interview providers in your area. Get a feel for what people are comfortable with. I wish you luck in your journey. Remember: A cesarean section is still giving birth. Sometimes we just have to be grateful for what we have and accept the things that we cannot change. Let me know if I can answer any other questions!
A. Hall says
This is a great post!!!
Before having my first I did a lot of research & fully agree with all that you have said. I have encouraged many women to do their research.
More women should take the time to educate themselves & have a great support team. Thanks for posting this.
CB says
I feel like articles like these lead to more judgement of women who have c-sections and only serve to frighten women. It was convenient that no possible negative side effects of natural birth were listed alongside the possible negative side effects of c-sections. Leads me to believe there was a lot of ignorance on both sides of the subject that went into the creation of this article.
Katja says
Hi, there! I wanted to take a moment to personally address your comment. If I came across as judgmental in any way, I sincerely apologize. My intention for this article is to educate and inform. I have worked in this field for a very long time and get frustrated with the lack of truthful information that is available. This article was meant to shed some light on a growing epidemic of surgeries that are often unnecessary. Yes, I do know that is not always the case. But from my professional experience, it is a problem. The c-section rate has soared in the past 20 years, putting women and children at risk. Do you believe that somehow women have forgotten how to birth in the past few decades? Or is it a sign of a broken system that needs some work? I have seen some pretty scary complications from cesarean surgeries. My intention is NEVER to judge nor to frighten. I do believe that women should know the facts so they can make the best choices possible. Again, I apologize to anyone who feels judged by this article.
R says
There wasn’t a judgmental sounding jot or tiddle in this article. It was solid, informative, and encouraging. Four of my seven births have been c-section. Every birth was a miracle yet the last three c-sections were most unnecessary. I don’t feel as if I failed because of them just saddened to learn how ignorant I was of one of the most natural processes of a woman’s body. It is frustrating to know that the only reason three of my births were c-section is because of a general hospital policy instead of a necessary medical decision.
Katja says
Thank you for this comment! You are truly blessed with all of those little ones! 🙂
Katja says
Thanks for this comment! 🙂
Ashley says
Having educated myself before my 1st birth I was able to avoid a C-section. I found watching the documentary “The business of being born” very informative. I agree in some situations the procedure can save lives but it doesn’t need to pushed on women who wouldn’t otherwise benefit from it.
Katja says
I love that documentary. Very well done.
Marie says
Hi! I find your article to be very informative and agree with everything you said, however as someone who had no choice in the matter regarding how I would deliver my daughter, I was slightly sadened by your lack of understanding towards women in my position. Breeched babies and twins are not the only reasons why a women would be forced to have a c-section. There are MANY other situations that could result in the woman having no other option. For example, I had placenta previa and would have died if I had not had a c-section. So for those mothers reading this who have no choice, don’t feel bad about it and don’t be scared by this article. You will not die, get an infection or not be able to have more babies if you have to have a c-section. You and your baby will be fine! Of course natural birth is the preferred way to experience child birth for all of the reasons this nurse mentions and more! It’s just that many moms don’t have a choice and therefore might feel bad after reading this, like I did. Moms, don’t worry! No matter what your situation is, everything is going to be great!!! 🙂
Katja says
Hi, Marie! Thanks for commenting. This article was written to educate and to shed light on a topic that is not often discussed. There is a casual attitude that has developed over the years regarding surgical deliveries of babies. My intention is not to frighten nor to make people feel bad about having surgical deliveries. My intention is to report facts about the risks of surgical deliveries and other interventions surrounding our birth culture.
I deeply understand that there are times when it is necessary. And this article is not about those cases. Yes, most people are fine after surgical deliveries but there are inherent risks that I feel are necessary to talk about. I am so glad that everything went well for you. I can’t say the same for my dear friend who dealt with a wound infection for over 3 months after having a c-section delivery with countless antibiotics and a second surgery. 🙂
Stephanie Leisen says
I had my first son C-section due to him being completely breach. HIs head was up in my rib cage and his butt was in my birthing canal. My doctor waited to see if he might turn but he warned me of the chances of that happen were very slim. Now I am 20 weeks pregnant with another boy and I am about a year and a month post-up from my C-section. My doctor told me it will be another schedule C-section for me because they are to close together. I have read story about women virginally delivering after a C-section. I really want to exsperence child birth but my doctor thinks that is not possible. What is your view do you think its to close together?
Katja says
Hi, Stephanie! Blessings on your new baby! How wonderful for you and your family. This is a hard question to answer. Yes, many women have delivered vaginally after having a c-section. Your doctor is concerned about the integrity of the incision site with the stress of labor since it has only been about a year. I cannot give you my opinion about this as this is beyond my scope of practice. This is a decision you and your family will have to make together. I would recommend seeking a second opinion to see what other providers in your area think. At least then you know you have made an informed decision. I understand your desire to birth your baby a different way, but sometimes we have to be flexible and go with what the universe puts on out plate. Either way, you are blessed to have a new baby in your family. Thanks so much for coming by! 🙂
Ellen says
Hi there, so 6 months ago I had beautiful baby boy by C-section. I wasn’t very thrilled bout it as I was in labor for 11 hours and the dr just decided I needed one. I was 5 cm dilated at the time, I was soo sure if we would have waited longer he would have come naturally.. I am still upset with what happened.. I am planning my next one to be natural if at all possible!
Katja says
Ellen- Its natural to be disappointed when things do not go the way we expected. I get it. It’s hard to say from the info that you gave what the reason for your c-section was. All you can do is educate yourself and surround yourself with people who share your value system around birth the next time. They are out there if you search them out. Blessings on your new baby.
Cristal says
Thanks for the great post! I had my first child ( a beautiful baby boy) 2.5 yrs ago. He arrived 5 days after expected due date & a day before my OB had scheduled to induce. When I started my contractions I stayed home as long as I could because I did not want to be sent home from the hospital. When I got to the hospital I was 5cm dilated and was admitted. I wanted to have a natural delivery without an epidural or any drugs. I was able to dilate up to 8.5cm, and unfortunately I started pushing before it was time. My cervix got swollen and I had to have an epidural to relax my body, so that I would not push anymore. My cervix stayed swollen and since I had pushed, my baby was already making his way down. The on-call OB ended up having to do a C-Section after all that, I was bummed out, but never the less I only wanted my baby to arrive healthy. I am currently 30 weeks pregnant with another boy… My very first visit with my OB, she was very quick to say that the delivery was going to be scheduled… but the more I though about it I was convinced that I wanted to at least try a VBAC. I mentioned it to my OB and she said kind of hesitant…”ok, but we’re not going past the due date”… I did not like her answer, but I did not want to change OB because she is really good. Unfortunately with this pregnancy I have a VERY sedentary lifestyle, I sit at my job all day, Sit in Traffic to pick up my son for a good while, and by the time I get home I have no energy to exercise… this leads me to think that I might end up having a C-Section after all, since I know that I have not prepared my body for labor, it is so bad that I find myself running out of breath with simply going up one flight of stairs,.. I am mixed with emotions, but I do know that I want to have a VBAC to enjoy my 2 year old and my newborn.
Diabetic says
I recently discovered that I am pregnant with my first child. I am also a type 1 diabetic. The research I have seen mostly aims at a cesearan birth. Any suggestions or advice to avoid a c-section.
Katja says
I have seen many women with Type ! Diabetes birth vaginally. My suggestion would be to find health care practitioners that can help you to manage your diabetes during pregnancy so your sugars are under good control. And make sure that the person you seek care from supports your desire to birth naturally. Diabetes does put you in a higher risk category for cesarean birth. The best you can do is to find good support, manage your diabetes, and keep yourself healthy. I would recommend regular exercise like prenatal yoga to prepare your body as well. Educate yourself as well. I wish you the best! Please let me know if I can answer any specific questions for you. 🙂
lLisa says
I am currently 26 weeks pregnant with twins, and so torn on delivery options. I have a four year old daughter who was born via emergency c-section at 41+ weeks due to cord presentation and reduced heart rate, after attempting natural birth. After her delivery, my uterus inverted – all of which was pretty traumatic for me. I am now fearful of a VBAC , but don’t want to choose a c-section for my twins if my fears are unwarranted.
Katja says
Blessings on your growing babies! Sounds like you have a really intense experience with your first. A cord presentation is very dangerous. I am so glad that it worked out for you. Twins is a complicated thing, especially with a prior c-section. I think it is best to keep things in perspective. What is your ultimate goal? Healthy babies, right? If you can focus on that, I think that you will be able to make the best decision for your babies. Yes, natural birth is ideal, but it is not always possible due to circumstances. Parenting has taught me so much about letting go of expectations and plans. There are things that you can do to make the experience better for you and your babies if you do decide to have another c-section. Finding a provider that supports immediate skin to skin and breastfeeding. Taking some care to boost your babies gut health after c-section is always good as c-sections alter gut flora. I would recommend micro doses of a good quality probiotic for the babies. I would also feed them lots of baby superfoods when thay start to eat. Some hospitals allow you to birth in an operating room so in case that you have to have a c-section, you are already there. You would have to find a provider who was comfortable with a VBAC twins delivery. Most importantly, don’t let yourself get too hung up on it. Stressing about it can almost be worse. May it all go smoothly and peacefully for you! Please let me know if there is anything else I can answer for you.
Anna says
Excellent article! Gracious and informative!
Shonna says
Hi, I am 38 years old and my MD is telling me I have to be induced by 39 wks. Is this the norm for mothers over 35? I was induced with my first eight years ago and I had a vaginal delivery but with complications. It was a horrible delivery. I really dont want to be induced again. Thank you!
Katja says
I have never heard of a rule that women over 35 have to be induced. I do see a pattern of inducing women with gestational diabetes before the due date. I would get clear with your doctor why he/she wants to induce. There may be a medical indication. If you do not feel satisfied with the answer, I would seek another opinion. Being induced has it’s risks. And should not be done unless medically indicated. Best of luck to you!
Crystal Villalobos says
Hello Katja
My first baby was c section, I
Broke my water , I was induced and after 8 hrs of labor I just delayed 2cm, My doctor decided to practice c section, I was so sad and tired, ;(
I’m expecting my second it’s a girl and I’m in my 4 month, the doctor said that she can make VBAC and I’m concern because I want to try to have my baby natural! Do you think this is possible ?
Grey article
Katja says
Hi, there! Yes, VBAC is possible after c-section as long as your doctor feels it is safe for you. Sounds like your doctor is in support of that. It is important to have providers that support your wishes. And to be in a hospital that allows VBAC’s. Not all hospitals do. I wish you all the luck with you baby. 🙂
Alla Leigh says
My little one had to be born via c-section three months ago. I had taken natural childbirth classes, and felt confident that I would be able to have an unmedicated, natural birth. Unfortunately, my baby was in severe distress at 37 weeks due to placenta degradation and I had no choice, he had to come out immediately. It broke my heart. I still don’t like to think about it. I am thankful for my c-section because it saved my baby’s life, but it was a very traumatic experience that has left more than a physical scar.
Katja says
Hi, there! There are some situations that warrant a c-section. I am glad that your little one is OK. That is the most important thing. I can say that parenting my two girls has been the biggest lesson in letting go and accepting things that I have ever had. Our children are here to teach us and to help us grow. I totally get your disappointment. It is hard when things do not go as planned. I hope that you can find some comfort in knowing that your situation was different. Your baby needed to come out to be healthy. And I hope that you are healing well and enjoying that little angel. Blessings!
Kattiana says
I’m 38 weeks 3 days with twins and the doctor who takes care of me said that their policy doesn’t allow them to do Vbac. They are the ones who also induce me unnecessary 20 months ago.
At 36 weeks I spoke to the hospitalist where I am supposed to deliver my babies and he supports that I can go for a VBac as long as baby A is head down. Until now I don’t really have any strong contraction and I don’t know if it’s safe to wait another 1 or 2 weeks with the twins. How risky would that be?
Katja Heino says
Without knowing your full history, it is hard for me to give you a clear answer. It sounds like your doctor is not willing to nor is he able to offer you a vbac. Unless you are willing to change providers at this late stage of the game, I am not sure what your option is. Unless the hospitalist is willing to help you. As far as safety goes, I am guessing your babies are being monitored regularly? You would have to speak with your provider about safety and how they are doing. I wish you the best of luck, mama! 🙂