On Preventing Caesarean Births
Three years ago I had a Caesarean delivery after nine months of preparation for a normal vaginal delivery. I had read about the upsurge in Caesarean birth, and was determined to avoid what I felt was, in most cases, unnecessary surgery. I decided that no matter what, my baby would be born the “right” way. And then, of course, nature refused to cooperate, and my doctor told me a Caesarean was necessary after an unproductive 24-hour labor. Of course I rebelled, then yielded in anger.
Later, after my healthy baby girl was born, I discussed my feelings and thoughts with my doctor, Juan C. Dracherberg, chief of obstetrics at Glendale Adventist Medical Center. He was sympathetic and explained at length all the reasons for making that decision. The main point was, he emphasized, to deliver a healthy, quality baby. The birth experience would be preserved for the parents’ benefit, if at all possible.
He encouraged my questions and responded with humanity and understanding. We then discussed the possibility of a vaginal birth after Caesarean, and he felt I had a very good chance at succeeding.
Three years later, I was in labor with my second child. It dragged on, hour after hour, and I expected to hear the news at any moment that I would be prepped for a second Caesarean. Each time Dr. Dracherberg checked me, he repeated, “as long as you are progressing, we will be patient.” And then, when I was convinced it would never happen, he came in and announced that I was ready to deliver. We had a healthy 8-pound, 8-ounce boy.
What I want to say is, Dr. Dracherberg helped me rearrange my priorities. I had wanted to give birth without medical intervention--but my priorities were unclear. Babies who are in the birth canal for too long a period can be damaged. Babies can suffer serious infections if not born within 24 hours after the amniotic sac has ruptured. Many circumstances can interfere with our plans to have the ultimate birth experience.
The best thing I learned was to focus on a healthy baby, and to learn as much as possible about how to make that happen. Ask questions, and find the doctor who will answer them all.
JEANNE L. WRIGHT
North Hollywood
