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Suggested ReadingSuggested ReadingTop 5 Labor & Birth FearsMedical intervention is on the rise. The cesarean rate is over 27% in the United States. Other technologies like induction, augmentation, forceps, and vacuums make up a large number of births as well. Sometimes medications can increase the likelihood that you will need added interventions. Talk to your doctor or midwife about common interventions, your concerns and how you can avoid them when they may not be necessary. Doulas also help lower the rates of many medical interventions. In the case of an emergency, the need for intervention may not be explained as in depth as you would like. This is where the trust in your doctor or midwife becomes necessary. The good news is that with an increase in proper prenatal care and nutrition, many of the common problems seen in previous decades have been nearly eradicated. The surprise problem with a baby is becoming more and more rare. If you have a genetic issue or concern discuss this with your doctor or midwife for genetic or prenatal screening. This can also help alleviate surprises. However, no amount of care, testing or planning can prevent all complications with babies. Some babies are born ill and require time in the hospital or other treatments that may help the baby. Other times babies are born with problems that are not fixable by any amount of medical technology. While these problems do not occur frequently, fewer than 1% of all births, they do happen and are devastating to the parents, relatives, and even the practioners. Since the advent of germ theory, hand washing and other changes, the risks to the mother in birth have dropped dramatically. The complications of birth that severely affect the health of the mother are managed by high risk specialists with advanced knowledge of pregnancy and labor. Technology, like the cesarean section, does pose more of a risk to mothers than vaginal births. Discuss all risks and benefits with your practitioner. If any of these fears are overwhelming or ruling your life, you need to talk to your practitioner. Sometimes counseling is necessary to help you deal with your fears. Report it to your doctor or midwife if you find yourself obsessing constantly and your fears aren't answered by regular prenatal visits or childbirth classes. Suggested ReadingSuggested Reading |
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