5 Common Myths About C-Sections

Posted on

If you are pregnant or are thinking about becoming pregnant, you may find yourself in a situation where you are considering whether or not you should have a C-section. While following your doctor's advice is often the wisest decision, it is normal to have some fears. Fortunately, many of these fears are often associated debunked myths.

Myth #1: Women Who Have C-Sections Can't Move for Six Weeks

Actually, recovery from a c-section is often faster today than in the past. Women are often able to perform some gentle stretches and even exercises within a few weeks. While you certainly don't want to head off to a spin class three weeks after a C-section, recovery allows for more movement with time.

Myth #2: Women Who Have C-Sections Are Failing their Children

This is absolutely not the case. In fact, there are many cases in which a C-section is the best thing you can do to protect the health of your baby. Rather than fear that you are failing your child by not having a vaginal birth, discuss your options with your doctor to learn more about why a C-section might be the best option for your baby's health.

Myth #3: Women Who Have C-Sections Are Doing So for Convenience

While it is possible to schedule a C-section at a specific time and date, doctors have limits on how early and late they feel comfortable scheduling the procedure. This is because babies born too early are more likely to develop certain issues with breathing and may even be more likely to have seizures. For this reason, doctors will not schedule C-sections early simply for convenience.

Myth #4: Women Who Have C-Sections Don't Have Complications

While there are complications associated with each type of birth, the C-section does come with its own set. Women who undergo C-sections are more likely to experience severe bleeding, heart attack, and infections.

Myth #5: Women Who Have C-Sections Can't Experience Skin-to-Skin Contact

After the baby's birth, many hospitals will still facilitate skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby. This is meant to help baby stabilize temperature and breathing, so many mothers want this. The key is to ask your doctor about skin-to-skin contact and determine if your situation will allow for this.

If you believe any of these common C-section myths, it might be time to think about talking to your doctor about how you can overcome some of these common beliefs. Places like All Women's Clinic can help answer your questions.


Share