A recent study published in the British Medical Journal concluded that women who have an elective (planned/non-emergency) Caesarian section put themselves, and their babies, at risk for serious complications and death. Women having planned C-sections were three to five times more likely to die as compared to vaginal birth. Risk of having a hysterectomy after Caesarian was four times higher than after natural birth. Admittance to the intensive care unit, requiring a hospital stay of greater than seven days was twice as high in C-sections as compared to vaginal deliveries.
The only time that a Caesarian was found to be better than natural birth was during a breech presentation. For normal cephalic (head first) presentations natural birth was found to be the best, with a one-and-a-half times higher chance of severe complications or fetal death for those who elected to have a C-section.
Nearly 25 percent of all births are C-sections that may cause severe complications or death to mother and/or baby. It is important for the health of mothers and babies to reserve Caesarian deliveries for true emergencies.
Rather than taking a chance with a planned Caesarian, more focus should be placed on preparing the body for the best and most efficient birthing experience possible. More women are turning to acupuncture and acupressure for helping their bodies ready for labor. It has been researched and concluded that acupuncture treatments starting at 36-37 weeks gestation aid cervical ripening, promote optimal position of the baby, reduce the number of Caesarian deliveries, reduce the number of inductions, and reduce the need for an epidural. These treatments also promote the best energy and stamina for women entering labor.
The decision to have a C-section should not be taken lightly. It is major abdominal surgery requiring a prolonged hospital stay, pain medication, reduced mobility, increased problems breast feeding, no driving/heavy lifting, and a recovery time of six weeks. Acupuncture offers women a relaxing environment where they can prepare their bodies and minds for a positive birthing process. With better experiences giving birth, women will bond more easily with their new babies.
REFERENCES
British Medical Journal. 2007 Nov 17;335(7628):1025. Epub 2007 Oct 30
Betts D, Lennox S. Acupuncture for prebirth treatment: An observational study of its use in midwifery practice. Medical acupuncture 2006 May; 17(3):17-20