A report in USA Today reveals that C-section deliveries are increasing. The rate of C-sections in the USA reached an all-time high in 2004, and data for 2005 is not completed, but doctors say numbers continue to climb. The panel that's doing the research is not able to pinpoint definite answers as to why, except that expecting mom's are requesting cesarean deliveries more frequently, even when there's no medical need.
Some speculations for this are fear of labor pain, fear of complications during vaginal birth, and a need to have more control of the situation, especially if a c-section is scheduled. If the delivery is scheduled you're are able to know the exact date, and almost the exact time the baby will be delivered. Doctors say women considering this should really discuss pros and cons with their doctor. C-sections do increase risk of placenta complications with multiple pregnancies, so if women plan on having several children, c-section is not recommended unless medically necessary.
So ladies let's hear it, are today's women just control freaks, or are there legitimate concerns?
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When I first became pregnant with my daughter, I jokingly told my midwife through our HMO that I'd be more than happy to have a C-section. She told me to be careful what I wished for.
Lo and behold, the other midwives at a different location (who took over my care when we moved) mistakenly stated that my daughter was in proper position for labor...she was actually frank breech, and I ended up at the ER ready to give birth and was shocked to hear "THAT'S NOT A HEAD!"
A few hours later I was recovering from an emergency C-section (some have said I was a "victim" of one!) but I don't regret it one bit. Granted it probably could have been prevented, but the experience was excellent thanks to the doctor, nurses and anethesiologist who took over from the admitting midwife and nurses.
Scheduled C-s, now...I'm concerned they are being overused, but with malpractice rates going up and up, hopefully too many doctors won't allow their patients to abuse the surgery.
Posted by: Melonie K. Murray | April 1, 2006 11:30 AM | Permalink to Comment