First, it’s important to clarify that even if you shudder at the thought of having a C-Section, it might happen; it’s not preventable 100% of the time. There are certain circumstances that may arise during pregnancy or even during labor that make a Ceasarean necessary for the safety of mom, the baby, or both. A healthy outcome for all is what’s most important, but many women understandably may want to lessen their chances of having what’s really emergency surgery. Pushing out a watermelon-sized baby is a big deal, but ending up in an operating room can be an even bigger deal! Here are 6 things to explore if you’re seeking to reduce your risk of C-Section.

TAKE A CHILDBIRTH CLASS

Childbirth will always be full of surprises, but If you’re more knowledgeable and prepared for it, you may be able to handle those surprises better in the heat of the moment. Childbirth classes can outline what to expect and the different scenarios that may arise. In turn, you can learn pain management techniques and birthing positions to make vaginal childbirth go more smoothly and some say more painlessly. You want your body to work towards a successful birth and not against it, which doesn’t always come as naturally and effortlessly as it sounds! Sometimes our bodies need a bit of instruction to know what to do.

Hospitals often now offer free childbirth and/or baby prep classes. If you want something more in-depth, explore paid community classes or those led by a doula or midwife. There are even virtual classes now and ones that can be done on your own schedule if you’re tight for time, as expecting mamas usually are!

SELECT THE RIGHT OB-GYN

When faced with the birth of your first child, you may not want to simply use the same OB-GYN you’ve been seeing since you got your first period. Ask around to see who has had a good vaginal birth experience and with what provider. You can even directly ask your current provider what his or her C-Section rate is. If you’re really looking to lessen your chances of having a Ceasarean this could be important information to have.

If your physician is part of a group, you may want to ask what the group’s C-Section rate is, as it’s not always guaranteed that your particular OB will be present for your birth. And remember, it’s (almost) never too late to switch doctors. Not all doctors take new patients at all times, but it’s important for you to be completely comfortable with the person who may be touching your baby for the very first time! Find someone who fully supports your birth plan, whatever that may be.

 

AVOID CERTAIN INTERVENTIONS

The research is mixed, but some studies have shown that women having epidurals were 2.5 times more likely to have a C-Section. You may already know you want to have an epidural–and that’s okay!–but if you’re still unsure, have an honest conversation with your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks.

Some studies have also shown that inductions can increase the likelihood of a Ceasarean birth. Other studies show the opposite–yeah, it’s all really complicated–so this is another conversation you should have with your provider. Inductions supercede the body’s timeline for birth with medication. Sometimes this is really necessary, but sometimes the body may not be ready for birth and the induction can fail. If an induction fails, or if it does not successfully progress labor, then a C-Section is almost always the next step.

OPT FOR A BIRTH DOULA OR MIDWIFE

Sure, your husband/mom/best friend/chosen birth partner may be a wonderful person, but there’s something to be said for having an objective third party in the delivery room. A doula or midwife is a trained professional to guide and support you during birth. If your birth plan is to have a vaginal birth, he or she can help you stick to that plan. Not saying that your birth partner can’t do that, but emotions are high during labor, and it’s nice having a level-headed professional to help you calmly but firmly express your wishes. Besides, it’s great to have a backup birth partner if your boyfriend faints while you’re crowning.

CONSIDER HAVING CHILDREN BEFORE 40

Yes, Janet Jackson had a baby at 50. She and so many other mamas have enjoyed motherhood well past the age of 40, but having children earlier in life still does reduce some of your risks of pregnancy and birth-related complications. Your risk of having a C-Section increases as you near 35-40, so having children in your twenties or early thirties makes your likelihood of having a vaginal birth higher.

ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT LABOR GUARD

Labor Guard is a relatively new and revolutionary medical device that helps decrease your chances of developing labor-induced hemorrhoids AND reduces your chances of having a C-Section. It may sound too good to be true, but there’s data to back it up! In one independent observational study, women who opted for Labor Guard had 86.7% fewer non-scheduled cesarean births compared to patients who completed childbirth without the device. Ask your healthcare provider if it makes sense to include Labor Guard in your birth plan.

In conclusion, having a C-Section may be inevitable if certain circumstances arise, but there are steps you can take to help lessen your chances of having this major surgery. Explore these recommendations with your OB or midwife to decide what path is right for you and your baby.