In the United States, nearly a third of pregnant women give birth by caesarean section. Sometimes this choice is perfect: it solves the problem of lasting pain and can save both their lives and that of their children. But many experts believe it is done too frequently, sometimes for perfectly preventable reasons. If you want to avoid the risks and long convalescence associated with a caesarean, there are a few ways to increase the likelihood of having a spontaneous birth.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Finding the Right Cure
Step 1. Consider a midwife midwife
Most women give birth with the obstetrician but some studies have shown that midwives are more successful in guiding a natural birth without unnecessary interventions.
- Midwives are not licensed to operate or for at-risk births, but most are linked to hospitals and obstetric associations. Remember that if you run into any complications, a midwife will still need to take you to a specialist. The way this works and the conditions vary, so you will need to discuss this with the midwife of your choice before the date of delivery.
- There are other reasons to consider the midwife. Midwives have lower rates of episiotomy and use tools such as forceps to a lesser extent than obstetricians. Their patients usually require fewer pain medications and remember the experience more positively after delivery.
Step 2. Choose the right obstetrician
If you decide to opt for the obstetrician instead of the midwife, be sure to choose one that respects your desire to give birth naturally. Ask where you will give birth: Are you limited to the hospital or do you have other options, such as a birthing center? Greater flexibility will give you more control over the method of delivery.
- Ask each obstetrician you speak to what their "primary cesarean rate" is. This number represents the percentage of caesareans in the event of a first birth, thus excluding repeated ones that would distort the result. The number should be as low as possible, around 10%.
- Consider the obstetrician's attitude towards other types of surgery. If you use pain medications, epidurals, episiotomies, and induction frequently you may also be inclined to recommend a cesarean.
Step 3. Get help from a doula
Doulas are professionals hired to accompany you to hospital or birthing centers and offer you additional assistance during labor and delivery. They are not nurses, but their guidance and support can help deliver faster births with few complications and lower the rate of caesareans.
Step 4. Research local hospitals and centers
If there is one of your options, you can start from there: the birthing centers where midwives usually serve, do not practice a caesarean, so if you choose it you will give birth naturally unless complications arise that force you to be transferred. in the hospital. If there are no centers where you live and you need to go to the hospital, compare the policies of the caesarean to see which is the best facility.
Part 2 of 3: Staying Healthy and Fit
Step 1. Follow the prenatal path regularly
Don't skip appointments! See your doctor or obstetrician regularly, get recommended exams, and listen to their advice. A fit and healthy woman who receives regular care is likely to have a natural birth.
Step 2. Eat right during pregnancy
Labor and delivery are physically consuming and you will need to be able to support them. A healthy diet rich in proteins, fruits, vegetables and complex carbohydrates will help you get to the birth in the best possible shape.
If you are concerned about your diet, ask your doctor or midwife for specific advice. Remember that if you have gestational diabetes or other complications you will need to follow specific dietary guidelines
Step 3. Exercise during pregnancy
If your doctor or midwife approves, moderate exercise will help you stay fit and prepare for delivery. Walk, swim, do yoga - whatever makes you feel better!
Step 4. Get plenty of rest, especially in the last quarter
If you are able to arrive at the birth rested, you will be able to support the weight of the moment without the need for interventions.
Part 3 of 3: Avoiding Unnecessary Interventions
Step 1. Avoid induction
In some cases, induction of labor (i.e. initiating it with drugs or tools) is necessary. In all the others, however, it is better to be skeptical: if you and the child are fine, it is better to avoid induction. Increase the chances of a caesarean section.
Above all, avoid "elective induction" - that is done for pure convenience (both yours and the doctor's)
Step 2. Avoid unnecessary pain medications
According to some studies, epidurals and painkillers can stop contractions, slowing down labor and making a cesarean more likely. Talk to your doctor or midwife and consider the risks and benefits.
If you wait until at least 2 inches of dilation before getting an epidural or getting something for pain, you can reduce the risk of a cesarean. At that point, labor will likely not slow down or stop
Step 3. Be patient
Unless your doctor deems it absolutely necessary, avoid interventions aimed at speeding up labor or strengthening contractions. Sometimes doctors break the waters mechanically or by using a drug like pitocin to increase contractions and such methods are effective, but they can also increase the risk of having a cesarean. Let labor progress naturally if possible, even when things go slowly.
Step 4. Get someone's help
If you have someone close during childbirth, make sure they know you want a natural birth. This person will be able to support you during your contractions, remind you of your goals, and speak for you when you are too tired to do so.
Advice
- Talking to other women who have given birth can help, especially if it's your first pregnancy. Ask to share their experiences with you and read their stories online. Doing research will help you understand that every birth is different; and may even give you some more advice to avoid a caesarean.
- Remember that the most important thing is health for you and your child. If you try all of these things but ultimately need a caesarean, don't consider it a failure. It is not. You've done your best for and for him and that's what matters.
