operation baby

More than one-quarter of American women today deliver via Cesarean section. Will you be one of them?




Decrease your C-section odds
Choose providers with low Cesarean rates Also ask questions to help put the number in perspective. For example, a doctor or hospital that handles a large number of high-risk patients may have higher rates. Ask doctors how they determine when surgery is necessary.
Hire a doula Studies show that women who labor with continuous support
are 26 percent less likely to have a C-section. (Visit www.dona.org to locate one.)
During labor, ask whether either you or your baby is in danger
if a C-section is being discussed. If the answer is no, inquire about alternatives.



















>> Kim Acosta, senior associate health editor at Shape, is expecting her first child in August.