Avoiding a C-Section

Avoiding a C-Section

From Babyfit.com

In certain situations, a c-section may be the best option for mother and baby. But many times they can be avoided, and mother and baby both benefit. Here are some measures that can help you avoid a c-section:

1. Stay healthy during pregnancy. Nourish your body and baby with healthy foods, exercise, and plenty of sleep. Labor is hard work, and you'll need your body to be in peak condition.

2. Find out whether your obstetrician's c-section rate is unusually high. The overall U.S. c-section rate is 20-25%. If it is above that, consider switching to another practitioner.

3. Use a midwife. They usually have lower c-section rates than OB's.

4. Hire a doula. Women supported by a doula during labor have been shown to have a 50% reduction in cesarean rate.

5. Be active during labor. Walking and standing let gravity do its job.

QUICK TIP :In 1970, only 7% of babies were born by c-section in the United States. Today's rate is climbing and expected to reach 30% before it plateaus.