When I was younger, there was a huge perceived problem with “excessive” C-sections being performed. The concern was that they were being scheduled for the convenience of doctors, they were being pushed upon pregnant women, that the rate was far in excess of other countries, and that it was an unhealthy amount of major surgery (and was pushing up medical costs/insurance rates).
Today’s story is how elective C-sections are being increasingly being chosen by women.
Cesarean sections have jumped 50 percent over the last decade. Most of that rise can be attributed to cautious obstetricians, but Aubrey reports that 3 percent of mothers are getting C-sections by choice. Not only can a woman avoid a whole range of bowel and sexual complications, she can schedule that taxi weeks in advance.
This choice raises all sorts of uncomfortable issues. Obviously C-sections are major surgery, but some doctors say that cesarean deliveries cut the risk of fetal injury. Researchers can’t seem to agree on this one, so it’s up to you to decide.
Having witnessed a C-section, the idea that people are choosing it for its “convenience” is a bit alarming. But, then, this is a case where I’m seriously in no position — gender and age-wise — to dictate what others should do.
I can’t say that I would have chosen my C-section, but now that I’ve had one I wouldn’t bother trying for a VBAC.
The week before I ended up having my daughter, I went to the childbirthing class (used to be call Lamaze, now it’s a hodgepodge of techniques) and saw the film. The lady who had the C-section was all calm and cool and collected, and everyone talked about how they could schedule it for a weekend and be back to work. I, um, didn’t get a choice, but I have to admit, a small part of me was appalled at the thought. (And my C-section was nothing like being calm and cool and collected.)
And, by the way, Anne’s acronym is for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean.
Margie’s C-section — well, it wasn’t panicky, but when the docs moved, they moved, and I had to race down the hall to catch up with the gurney …
Were it an issue for us, my inclination for the next delivery would be whatever Margie wanted, as influenced appropriately by whatever the docs suggested. My “skin” in the game is mostly second-hand here, to be honest.