C-section rates continue to rise

October 27, 1:09 PMAtlanta Holistic Parenting ExaminerSuzanne Taylor

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A few years ago I read that New Jersey had one of the highest, if not highest, c-section rates in the country. I thought about this over the weekend, and wondered if that was still the case (it is, 38.9% in 2007). ICAN of Somerset County, NJ: New Jersey Hospital C-section Rates Little did I know that what was suppposed to be a quick fact check would turn into three hours at the laptop, reading about rates all over the world.

There is so much contradictory information out there, with everyone seemingly pushing their own agenda. Medical doctors tend to feel that the rates are just fine as is, and dispute the World Health Organizations position that only 10-15% of births should be via cesarean section. This site provides what I find to be the most comprehensive information on why U.S. rates are rising, including low priority of enhancing women's own abilities to give birth, side effects of common labor interventions, and five more compelling reasons. Why the National U.S. C-Section Rate is Rising | Cesarean Section :: Childbirth Connection

Organizations such as International Cesarean Awareness Network International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) have this to say, "ICAN's mission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)."

"Research published just in the last year has highlighted the short-term and long-term risks of undergoing a cesarean, for both mother and baby. Other research has called into question the assumed safety advantage of cesarean section over vaginal birth in various situations including vaginal birth after multiple cesareans and breech deliveries."

 In comparing rates at local Atlanta hospitals, it seems that the smaller facilities have a lower c-section rate, both in primary and repeat surgeries. Atlanta Parent Online Northside Hospital, known by many as the baby factory, does not break down their rates by primary and repeat, but they are reporting their c-section rate as 36. In comparison, Emory Crawford Long's primary rate is listed as 19%, and their repeat as 10%. If I were pregnant now, I would use this list to make sure (once again) to work with a doctor or midwife who delivered at one of the hospitals that had lower rates.

Interested in learning more about cesarean sections? The first place I'd suggest starting is with an ICAN local chapter, which can be found by clicking the ICAN link above. There are chapters in Atlanta, Augusta,and Northeast Georgia. Whether you are pregnant for the first time, or have had a c-section in the past, they are an invaluable resource. 

 s ission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)."