Earlier this month, a British Medical Journal study debunked the myth that natural childbirth is any safer in a hospital than at home. This study shows one more reason to go the natural route.

About one-quarter of babies are delivered by Caesarean section in this country, and most such procedures are unnecessary. Generally, C-sections are not the best option as they are frequently done for the convenience of a physician, while being less healthy for the patient, putting them in danger of:

• Increased risk of mortality
• Infection to various organs including the uterus, bladder or kidneys
• Increased blood loss
• Increased risk of complications in future pregnancies
• Decreased bowel function
• Respiratory complications
• Longer hospital stay and recovery time
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Risk of additional surgeries such as hysterectomy or bladder repair

While there are times when a C-section cannot be avoided, there are things you can do to make your pregnancy as healthy as possible and minimize your C-section risk:

• Take a high-quality fish oil regularly. DHA in fish oil is responsible for preventing the vast majority of premature deliveries.
• Use a midwife and consider a home birth. Midwives have a lower C-section rate than hospitals.
• Eat a nutritious diet with plenty of whole, raw, unprocessed foods.
• Get a Doula (also known as a 'labor assistant' or 'montrice'). They have been shown in published studies to lower C-section rates, as well as provide other benefits.
• Make a Birth Plan. This is a document that states the expectant mother's or couple's interests or desires for their birth experience. It is not a legal document but simply a good way of letting the doctors and hospital staff know of your wishes.
• Talk to Your OB/GYN. Be sure to talk to your doctor early in the pregnancy, or even before hand, about different issues, including C-sections.
• Avoid epidural/pitocin if possible. These will increase your chances of needing a C-section.