The Great Debate

pregnant_woman

Many women wonder…natural birth?  or cesarean section?  Well, statistics show that right now c-sections are one of the most common hospital procedures performed in the U-S.  There are many benefits to the procedure, but one local mom says what happens after some women leave the operating room isn’t being discussed.

The mother we spoke to always dreamed of having a natural birth…listening to her other female family member’s stories.  But, she experienced pre-eclampsia and wound up having to have a c-section birth instead.  After she returned home from her surgery she says she immediately knew something was wrong….guilt and depression suddenly set in.

Her experience is not isolated.  In fact, it’s common enough for there to be an International Cesarean Awareness Network that has support groups around the country to help women through what can be a very difficult stage.  The mother we spoke to started a local chapter of ICAN here in Oklahoma City.  Their next meeting is April 26 at 2pm in the Norman Library.

Doctors say at least 10 percent of c-section patients experience significant depression.  When you add in sleep deprivation, pain, and post-surgery medication sometimes their condition can be much worse.  So as you think about whether to have a natural childbirth or a cesarean section make sure you’re thoroughly discussing the pros and cons with your doctor.  And here’s a link to a website that may help you along the way:

http://www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10285

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