Research-backed
Every pregnant woman hopes for short-term labour and an uncomplicateddelivery; some doable contractions, a little bit of pushing and a healthy baby. While pregnancy is one of the most natural processes, sometimes it may require additional help. There might be a plethora of reasons that a woman needs to go through a caesarean delivery. However, natural childbirth is the healthiest option for boththe mother and the baby.
A recent WHO statement on the increasing number of caesarean deliveries acknowledges that C-sections prove usefulin preventing the lives of the babies’ and mothers’ lives, only when recommended for medical reasons (1). Since 1985, the ideal rate for C-sections is consideredto be between 10-15%. This led to a significant increase in the number of caesarean deliveries across the globe. However, by carrying out extensive studies, they found that when the caesarean section rates get higher than 10%, there is no evident improvement in the mortality rates. In layman terms, where the rates are above 10%, they aren’t saving lives. So, the risks of this major surgery still exist.
But, fret not!
We compiled a list of a few methods that you can implement to avoid the possibility of a C-Section;
1. Exercise
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Exercising during pregnancy may sound like an impossible task, but it is beneficial nevertheless. No, we don’t mean that you get on your treadmills just now. Healthcare experts recommend that you must exercise, but not to a level that it stresses you out. This light exercise is just to make sure that you don’t grow overly lethargic and equip your body for what you will be going through later. It could be a simple walk in the park, light yoga, brisk walks, or climbing a flight of stairs instead of taking the elevator.
Research shows that moderate exercising during pregnancy may help women avoid the chances of a C-Section (2). Along with that, it can prove to be helpful in keeping gestational diabetes at bay.
Now that you have plenty of ways to get your groove, it’s time to put on those shoes and hit the road.
2. Eat Right
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Not that we need to mention the obvious, but a healthy body is always an ideal position to be in. When it comes to pregnant women, untimely cravings are the biggest of hurdles. Keeping in mind that labour and pregnancy are highly challenging life events, you need to be in the prime of your health. So, loading up on those carbs will hardly do you any good. Following a healthy eating regime will keep your body in good shape, and you’ll be in a better position when the time for delivery arrives.
3. Select The Best HealthCare Provider
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You need to have a level of comfort with the doctor you choose, ideally someone who understands your concerns about the caesarean deliveries. The right doctor will ensure that you get the much-needed support to go through the process of natural childbirth. Choose the specialist with the lowest C-Section rate and get reviews from whichever source possible.
4. Make Your Partner Aware
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Pregnancy is an integralpart of anycouple’s life. So, let your partner or spouse know that you would prefer a vaginal birth in place ofcaesareandelivery. This will empower you with all the support you need.
When all is said and done, if you go home with a healthy baby in your hands, everything else just seems to fall into place. We wish all the to-be mothers a lifetime of health and happiness!
