Articles related to "Vaginal Birth"

Experts believe that about 1% of mothers choose elective cesarean for their first baby without a medical reason. One reason might be that mothers fear labor pain.

If you might have heard that cesareans are a safer way to have your baby, think again. New research shows that more mothers have severe complications after a cesarean.

Pregnant women who want a VBAC (vaginal birth after c-section) instead of another cesarean section need to know VBAC risks and benefits, and choose a supportive OB/GYN.

If your baby is breech and you want to avoid having a cesarean, there are many ways to learn how to turn a breech baby to head down (vertex).

In order to understand why the VBAC rate is lower today, it's important to see what the VBAC history is, what the trends are and where VBAC is headed.

VBAC has become a controversial issue today. However, new research on VBACs shows that going into labor on your own can increase your chances of a vaginal birth.

Often times, people describe cesareans as "emergencies" when in fact very few cesareans are life-threatening. What are the most common reasons for a cesarean?

Epidural analgesia often adds other medical interventions into the picture. Are there ways for mothers to use an epidural but avoid some of the pitfalls?

Parents frequently have an uphill battle if they are considering a VBAC today. Knowing your options for labor including out-of-hospital birth locations are helpful.

The statistics of successful VBAC's have drastically decreased in the last 10 years. Current research shows the latest about the safety of VBAC vs. repeat cesarean.

Complications occur more often with vacuum assisted deliveries. Using midwives, doulas and a variety of pushing positions can reduce the rate of vacuum extractions.

The C-section rate in Brazil is at 36 percent according to WHO, and Cesarean birth in some areas at 90 percent, with elective Caesarean birth gaining popularity in Brazil

If a baby isn't born the natural way - vaginally - the baby will be born by a caesarean delivery.

Studies show that one factor that helps with VBAC success is to go into labor without being induced. A previous labor that ended at 8 cm or later also helps.

While there are no guarantees in birth, there are things you can do before and during labor to help avoid a C-section.

Hiring a midwife is no longer a choice just for the "yuppie" couples but makes sense if you want personal and natural care during your pregnancy and labor.

A difficult birth experience can contribute to post-partum depression or cause post-natal post-traumatic stress disorder. These resources may help the healing process.

The number of labor inductions are on the rise today despite increasing evidence that they increase the number of cesareans and complications for the baby.

How a weak cervix can prevent some women from having a family, and what can be done to help you carry a baby to term.

External versions are typically performed around 37 weeks of pregnancy. They have about a 50% or greater chance of turning your breech baby to head down.

Not all care providers or childbirth experts agree on the reasons for labor induction. New guidelines established by ACOG may help but are controversial.

Increasingly today mothers are discouraged from a trial of labor and instead encouraged to plan cesareans. Research shows that labor benefits a mother who wants a VBAC.

It is helpful to understand the different types of midwives practicing in the U.S. in order to choose one who best fits your needs.

Labor inductions have become commonplace in many hospital settings, even when there is no indicated risk. Using the Bishop's score helps to evaluate potential success.

Giving birth without drugs or surgery is less common than using an epidural or cesarean, but with preparation and confidence it is achievable for most women.

One of the most talked-about topics in childbirth circles today is the skyrocketing cesarean rate in the US. Learn as much as possible about cesareans and VBAC.

Herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases among women. Find out how to keep your baby safe from becoming infected with HSV.

Various research shows that as many as one in three women suffer infertility after having caesarean sections that are hyped as routine.

How sexually transmitted infections are damaging people's fertility and affecting the health of babies. How you can protect yourself.

New techniques that lessen the risk of multiple pregnancy, especially suited for older women.

Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein's documentary about birth is a valuable resource for all expectant parents. Learn the truth about hospital birth and home birth safety.

Ultrasound is used for several purposes during pregnancy including estimating the baby's weight. Controversy remains about the accuracy of ultrasound.

Eligible women with a deployed partner have the option of applying for a complementary birth doula to support them during labor through Operation Special Delivery.

Postpartum hemorrhage is a potentially life threatening event that can occur after a woman delivers a baby and immediate action must be taken to stop bleeding.

The lowdown on Zygote Intra Fallopian Transfer (ZIFT).

Not everyone agrees on the term "natural childbirth" and what it means. Does it refer to a vaginal birth versus a cesarean? How do you define natural childbirth?

If you have been advised by your care provider to have an elective cesarean, here is what you need to know about the timing of your cesarean.

Not only do you need more calories every day, but your options for giving birth are more limited if you are carrying more than one baby.

With increasing cesarean rates around the world, research now shows that another factor influencing the mode of delivery could be the mother's diet.

Your last trimester--you've waited almost nine months for the birth of your dreams, but the baby is breech! With a few tools you can still have a normal delivery.

If you have passed your due date, your cervix may need some help in order to be ready for labor. What cervical ripening agents may be used?

The Howes Birthing Mirror is a stainless steel mirror that aids delivery for midwife and mother. It enables you to give birth in the easiest positions - upright or squat.

Unassisted birth is getting attention as more women are seeking a way to have a natural childbirth without excessive, and often unnecessary, intervention.

Repeat cesareans are often encouraged today as providers argue they are safer for babies. However, evidence suggests that these babies tend to need help in the NICU.

Is having a big baby a good reason for inducing labor or having a cesarean? Can you deliver a large baby without risk to the baby?

If the evidence says that some of the old practices are no longer valid, it is time to re-think them. Here are changes you should be asking for with regard to your care.

In our online class series, class four consists of learning more about the medical aspects of labor as well as what you can do to naturally induce labor.

Find out more about the possible and definite signs of labor, what to do when your water breaks and how your partner can help you in the first stage of labor.

Expectant parents of multiples receive the unique information and support they need via childbirth education classes developed especially for them.

Most women know the basics of having a healthy pregnancy. Here are good reminders about what to do and what not to do to benefit mothers and their babies.