Many expecting parents worry about the possibility of needing a cesarean birth (C-section). While cesareans can be life-saving when medically necessary, many are performed for reasons that could be avoided. The good news? You have more control over your birth experience than you might think.
In this episode we explore 10 evidence-based strategies to help you reduce the likelihood of an unnecessary cesarean and advocate for a birth that aligns with your preferences and medical needs.
Plus, I share a real-life success story of a birthing person who avoided an unnecessary cesarean by adjusting their pushing technique—leading to a vaginal birth with zero teari
Listen to the episode now:
Many expecting parents worry about the possibility of needing a cesarean birth (c-section). While cesareans can be life-saving procedures when medically necessary, many are performed for reasons that could be avoided. Understanding how to navigate your birthing experience with confidence and knowledge can help you reduce the chances of an unnecessary cesarean while ensuring a safe and empowered birth.
In this episode, we’ll explore ten evidence-based strategies to lower the likelihood of an unnecessary cesarean and help you advocate for a birth that aligns with your preferences and medical needs.
1. Choose Your Provider Wisely
The provider you choose plays a major role in determining your likelihood of having a cesarean. Research the cesarean rates of different providers and hospitals. Providers with low cesarean rates often emphasize patient-centered care and evidence-based birth practices. Ask your provider what their cesarean rates are.
2. Pick the Right Birth Facility
Your chosen hospital or birth center significantly impacts your risk of a cesarean. Some hospitals have much higher cesarean rates than others. If you have options, consider touring different facilities and discussing policies with your provider to ensure alignment with your birth goals. Websites like Leapfrog.org offer hospital cesarean rates, helping you make an informed decision.
3. Wait Until Active Labor to Go to the Hospital
Going to the hospital too early can increase your risk of interventions that may lead to a cesarean. Early hospital admission often leads to labor augmentation, like Pitocin administration, which can increase fetal stress. Instead, labor at home as long as possible with the support of your birth team and head to the hospital once you're in active labor.
4. Hire a Doula
Numerous studies have shown that having a doula reduces the likelihood of a cesarean. Doulas provide continuous emotional and physical support, advocate for your birth preferences, and help navigate challenges during labor. If you’re unsure whether hiring a doula is right for you, check out [Episode 50] of my podcast where I discuss the benefits of doulas in depth.
5. Take a Comprehensive Childbirth Education Class
Education is empowerment. A high-quality childbirth class teaches you about labor stages, medical interventions, and how to advocate for yourself. In my classes, we discuss real-life scenarios and how to navigate hospital protocols to reduce unnecessary interventions. If you’re interested in a class, check out my online and in-person childbirth class options.
6. Avoid Unnecessary Inductions
Inducing labor without a clear medical necessity increases the likelihood of a cesarean. While there are cases where induction is medically required, elective inductions introduce risks. In [Episode 46] of my podcast, I cover how to assess whether induction is the right choice for you and how to handle provider pressure.
7. Stay Active During Labor
Movement during labor helps facilitate optimal fetal positioning and reduces the risk of "failure to progress," a common reason for cesareans. Walking, squatting, using a birthing ball, and changing positions can all help labor progress naturally. Avoiding prolonged time on your back can also reduce the need for interventions.
8. Prioritize Healthy Habits During Pregnancy
Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active during pregnancy can lower the risk of complications that may lead to a cesarean. Eating nutrient-dense foods and engaging in regular movement, such as prenatal yoga or walking, supports a healthy pregnancy and labor process.
9. Cultivate a Positive Mindset
Mindset matters. Fear and anxiety can slow labor progression by increasing tension and stress hormones. Practicing relaxation techniques, guided meditation, and positive birth affirmations can create a calm, confident labor environment.
10. Advocate for Yourself and Your Birth Preferences
You have the right to ask questions and make informed choices about your birth. If a provider recommends a cesarean, ask about the medical necessity, risks, and alternatives. Practicing effective communication—being assertive yet respectful—can help you navigate the decision-making process with confidence. We review how to do this in detail in my Birth Plan Masterclass.
Real-Life Success Story: Avoiding an Unnecessary Cesarean
Recently, I supported a client who was advised to have a cesarean due to a suspected "big baby” midway during her pushing phase. The baby was very stable but she had been pushing for a few hours, and the care team was concerned her baby wouldn’t fit through the pelvis. Instead of rushing into surgery, we worked on adjusting her pushing technique, allowing her to work with her body more effectively. Within 36 minutes, she delivered her baby vaginally with no tearing. This highlights the importance of questioning assumptions, advocating for yourself, and trying alternative approaches before accepting a cesarean.
Every birth is unique, and sometimes a cesarean is the safest and best option. However, by being proactive, informed, and advocating for yourself, you can greatly reduce the risk of an unnecessary cesarean. If you’re looking for additional resources, check out my online childbirth education course, which covers strategies in more depth.
For a FREE Birth Plan Template, click here.]. Have questions? Feel free to reach out!
Thank You for Listening
If this episode lights you up, I’d love it if you’d rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. After you review the show, snap a pic and upload it here… and I’ll send you a little surprise as a thank you.
Your feedback helps this podcast grow, and I am so grateful for your support!
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mindful Womb Podcast on iTunes so you never miss an episode.
Comments