By Joanna Burgess, CNM, MSN, Certified Nurse Midwife, Virtua Midwifery

A cesarean section (C-section) used to be a relatively rare way to deliver a baby. But today, nearly 1 in 3 pregnant women deliver in an operating room.

While a C-section may be the safest option in high-risk situations, research shows that this major surgery is often unnecessary and can sometimes pose greater risks to the health of both mothers and babies.

If you’re pregnant for the first time, here are some steps you can take that may help lower the chances of needing a C-section.

Ways to reduce your C-section risk during pregnancy

Don’t go hungry, but avoid overeating.

Many women gain more weight during pregnancy than is recommended. Talk to your provider about your weight gain goal, and try to eat a balanced, nutritious diet throughout your pregnancy.

Get plenty of exercise.

You can safely engage in regular, light-to-moderate intensity physical activity during pregnancy. However, before starting a new exercise routine, you should discuss it with your OB provider. 

Take childbirth classes!

Just like you'd train for a marathon, it's great to get prepared for childbirth too. Virtua offers a variety of helpful classes, so try to sign up by your 7th month. Being prepared can make a big difference, and you'll feel more confident as your big day approaches.

If the baby is breech, try to encourage movement.

If your baby is breech (feet first) and you’re at least 36 weeks pregnant, you might be a candidate for a procedure called an external cephalic version (ECV). ECV involves applying pressure to the mother's abdomen to turn the baby toward a head-down position.

Relax.

Reduce stress with yoga and meditation, and talk about your fears and concerns with your provider. Remember, you were born to give birth—trust in what your body can do.

Ways to reduce your C-section risk near the end of pregnancy

Avoid labor induction.

Women who undergo labor induction have higher C-section rates than those who wait for labor to start naturally. If your pregnancy is less than 41 weeks, resist the urge to have your labor induced unless your health care provider has a medical reason for it.

Consider hiring a doula or childbirth coach.

A doula is trained to offer non-medical support during labor. Studies show that having a doula can lower your chances of a C-section. If you can’t afford to pay for one, some volunteers provide this service. Alternatively, a supportive friend who has been through it can make an excellent labor coach.

Think about delaying that epidural.

Epidural anesthesia is the most common way to manage pain during labor. Once an epidural is administered, continuous fetal monitoring and IV fluids are necessary.

Be prepared for the possibility of a long labor.

For many first-time mothers, it can take hours to deliver a baby. It’s natural to become impatient as you look forward to holding your baby. However, your doctor or midwife will do everything possible to make your labor experience as happy and comfortable as possible. Keep in mind that early labor (when your cervix is less than 6 cm dilated) can sometimes last more than 20 hours, and it’s normal for some women to push for up to three hours.

Once again, relax.

Remember, staying pregnant for at least 39 to 40 full weeks is ideal. By staying calm and letting labor happen naturally—and taking your time during what might be a long labor—you give your baby the chance to be fully ready for life outside the womb. Think positively, and remember you’re in safe, experienced hands as you stay focused and strong.  

Virtua experts are here to help you have a healthy pregnancy

• Find a Virtua OB provider near you and schedule an appointment online.
• Virtua Health offers a variety of in-person and virtual maternity and breastfeeding classes and interactive courses, including childbirth preparation, baby basics, and more. See all the maternity classes.