The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) have introduced updated guidelines to assist expectant mothers in steering clear of cesarean births, which occur when a baby is delivered through an incision in the uterus. While cesarean deliveries can sometimes be life-saving for both mother and child, there are growing concerns that they are being performed too frequently. Presently, around 60% of cesarean births occur during a woman’s first delivery. If there are medical complications, like maternal hypertension or a breech position of the baby, your healthcare provider may recommend a C-section. In emergencies where either the mother or baby is in distress, an “emergency” C-section may be necessary. Here are some strategies to help you avoid a cesarean birth.
How Can I Lower My Chances of a Cesarean Delivery?
ACOG’s guidelines for the Safe Prevention of the Primary Cesarean Delivery suggest several approaches to minimize cesarean rates:
- Allow for a prolonged latent (early) labor phase.
- Consider starting active labor at 6 cm of cervical dilation instead of 4 cm.
- Permit more time for labor to progress during the active phase.
- Encourage women to push for at least two hours if they have previously given birth, three hours for first-time mothers, and possibly longer in certain cases, like when an epidural is used.
- Utilize methods that facilitate vaginal delivery whenever possible, such as forceps.
- Advise patients to manage their weight gain during pregnancy.
If, despite your best efforts, a cesarean becomes necessary, don’t worry. Sometimes surgery is indeed the safest option for you and your baby.
It’s essential to choose a healthcare provider and birthing environment with low intervention rates. Inquire about their stance on cesarean deliveries and their cesarean rates, which can range from 10% to 50% nationally. Enhance your birth knowledge by enrolling in childbirth classes, reading relevant literature, and asking numerous questions.
Develop a Flexible Birth Plan
Key discussion points with your healthcare provider should include:
- How long you can remain at home before heading to the hospital. For instance, your provider might recommend arriving when contractions are four to five minutes apart and last for at least a minute over the course of an hour. The longer you stay in the hospital before delivery, the greater the chance of medical intervention.
- Explore pain management options. If possible, postpone epidural analgesia during early labor, as an early epidural can restrict both your and your baby’s movements, potentially leading to interventions such as IVs or continuous monitoring.
- Consider avoiding continuous electronic fetal monitoring during labor, as studies indicate it may raise the risk of cesarean delivery by up to one-third.
- Seek advice on techniques to turn a breech baby and actively try those methods if needed.
- If possible, steer clear of induction.
- Arrange for continuous labor support from a professional, such as a midwife or doula, as research shows that women with continuous support are 26% less likely to undergo a cesarean.
For additional insights into the cesarean process or creating a positive birthing experience, you may want to visit resources like Healthline or check out Modern Family Blog for expert opinions.
Incorporating a fertility doula can also be beneficial; learn about the costs and benefits here. For those considering home insemination, companies like Make a Mom offer reusable options and a guide on how it works can be found here. If you’re in Las Vegas, you can find a sperm donor through Vegas Pregnancy.
In summary, while cesarean births can be necessary in certain situations, understanding and actively preparing for labor can significantly reduce the likelihood of needing one. Be proactive in your education, communicate openly with your provider, and consider supportive resources.