Caesarean birth rates are on the rise because of FEAR

As I sat listening to 4 passionate birth workers from NHS Surrey on their Instagram live, discussing the increase in Caesarean births it inspired me to add something major that seemed to be missing from their conversation.

'What about the education!', you could hear me shout through my screen when fear of physiological birth was raised as just one of the reasons for the increase in Caesarean birth rates. I have trained many of the midwives out this way so why are they not focusing on education as a solution to this fear?

As you can see from these birth outcome stats the current planned Caesarean birth rate sits at 20.2% with the overall CS rate sitting at a massive 44% and they are not the only ones.

Many UK maternity dashboards are currently reporting similar birth outcome stats. Something must be done about this and I believe it must start with the EDUCATION.

A lack of trained midwives, midwives leaving, cancelled classes and staff shortages is a huge factor affecting the quality of antenatal education at this point in time. Take a look at NHS Surrey and Sussex here... 

Surely it all starts with the right education. Here's what hypnobirthing can do for those parents fearful of physiological birth and requesting an elective Caesarean birth due to FEAR.

1. Fear and Stress Management: Hypnobirthing teaches relaxation techniques, self-hypnosis, and deep breathing exercises to manage pain and reduce stress and anxiety during labour. These skills can help individuals feel more in control and less afraid of the process.

2. Education and Understanding: The courses offer detailed information about the physiological processes of labour and birth. Understanding the natural childbirth process can demystify it and reduce fear. Furthermore, awareness of the potential risks and recovery period associated with a Caesarean birth can also influence decision-making.

3. Positive Imagery and Affirmations: Hypnobirthing uses positive affirmations and imagery to create a positive mindset towards childbirth. The power of suggestion and the use of positive birth stories can help replace fear with anticipation and confidence.

4. Empowerment and Autonomy: Hypnobirthing promotes the idea of autonomy in birth choices. It empowers individuals to take charge of their birth experience, ask questions, and make informed decisions. This sense of control can reduce fear and help consider alternative options to a Caesarean birth.

5. Practicing Pain Management: Hypnobirthing teaches techniques for managing discomfort and pain during labour, like deep breathing, visualisation, movement, and position changes. This can help build confidence in the ability to cope with the intensity of labour.

6. Partner Support: Hypnobirthing encourages the involvement of a birthing partner. This support can provide additional reassurance, making physiological birth a more appealing choice.

7. Addressing Past Trauma: If the fear of physiological birth stems from past traumatic birth experiences, hypnobirthing can provide a space to process those experiences and prepare more positively for the upcoming birth.

Just before I posted this birth blog I noticed my local MVP sharing their stats on Facebook. I dread to report that their Caesarean birth rate isn't much better either at 42%......ekkkkkk! 

Remember, it's essential to respect each individual's choice, and an elective Caesarean may be the best choice for some people, even after hypnobirthing education. A person's decision about their birth method should always be informed, respected, and supported.

Let's start addressing the fear and focus on reducing the Caesarean birth outcome rate with better informed parents.

With warmth and wisdom

Tamara x