April is observed as International Cesarean Awareness month. International Cesarean Awareness month is organized by The International Cesarean Awareness Network ( ICAN). ICAN is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve maternal-child health by reducing preventable cesareans through education, supporting cesarean recovery, and advocating for vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). More than 90% of babies are born through the C-sections.

Raising Awareness About Cesarean Section:

A cesarean section is a surgical operation in which a baby is delivered through a cut in the front wall of the abdomen and womb. This procedure is often used when a vaginal birth carries a higher risk of complications.

There is also a lack of awareness in mothers that cesarean sections are a major operation which carries its own potential complications. This surgery can lead to increased risk of infection, blood clots, intense longer lasting pain, and repeat hospital visits.

Health professionals do not always give expectant mothers an informed choice, favoring cesarean section over a vaginal birth. This may be due to a fear that there is a greater risk of being sued if there are complications with vaginal birth when compared to cesarean section. 92% deliveries in hospitals are a C-section in India. Therefore is it very important to spread awareness in the urban as well as remote areas in this country. 

Here are some reasons for a C- section

• Prolonged labor. 
• Abnormal positioning.
• Fetal distress. 
• Birth defects. 
• Repeat cesarean. 
• Chronic health condition
• And many more…

Before going to any procedure the family should ask the doctor for risks and the reason for the C-section. The International Cesarean Awareness month stresses on the importance of educating and making mothers aware of unnecessary C-sections. A C-section is necessary only when needed. Doctors do not always give an explicit  explanation or an informed choice (at times), favoring cesarean section over a vaginal birth. This may be due to a fear that there is a greater risk of being sued if there are complications with vaginal birth when compared to cesarean section.