Majority of babies are conceived this time of year—learn the latest birthing trends

Majority of babies are conceived this time of year—learn the latest birthing trends

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Did you know that more babies are born in the United States during the months of August, July, October and September than any other months? That means (subtract nine months) November and December are among the most popular months for conception.

Since many people are thinking about babies this month, Dr. Sean Edmunds, OBGYN of St. Mark's Hospital, provides professional insight on some of the options available to soon-to-be moms here in the state of Utah.

Hospital vs home birth

While the majority of births still happen in a hospital setting, there has been an increase in the amount of home births in Utah.

A news release from the Utah Department of Health stated that nearly 3,700 babies were delivered outside of the hospital in 2014. However, Dr. Edmunds cautions that those considering home births don't approach it lightly. Not everyone is a good candidate for home birth and there can be risks. According to the news release, the neonatal death rate among Utah babies intentionally delivered at home was more than double that of babies born in hospitals.

Natural vs epidural

Dr. Edmunds mentions that he has seen a slight increase in the amount of women pursuing ‘natural birth', but points out that natural birth doesn't only mean un-medicated.

"I like to remind my patients that all vaginal births are natural, and the decision to use epidural anesthesia needs to be a personal one. There are advantages and disadvantages either way. While a majority of women do choose to get an epidural, it is important that those who choose not to get one feel supported through the process by their partner, nurse, and provider," Dr. Edmunds says.

Whether using medication or not, there is also more of a push and trend toward skin to skin contact between mother and baby immediately after birth. Dr. Edmunds points out that skin to skin is a great practice. It has proven benefits for the infant for warming as well as bonding with mom among other things.

Majority of babies are conceived this time of year—learn the latest birthing trends

Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)

In the past, many believed that once you have a cesarean birth, any birth afterwards also needs to be delivered via C-section. However, Dr. Edmunds notes there has been an increased push by patients and many OB physicians to pursue vaginal birth after cesarean. In fact, 90 percent of women who have had a cesarean are eligible to deliver vaginally, and 60 - 80 percent of these patients have a successful vaginal birth. There is even a VBAC calculator that uses a patient's history to predict success.

"I strongly support VBAC and encourage all women to be educated regarding their options and chances for success," Dr. Edmunds says. "Coupled with education, women should also find a supportive doctor and hospital to allow for a safe and healthy VBAC delivery."

Being prepared with a birth plan

Many women these days are creating a plan for their birthing experience. Being educated about the birth process and what to expect removes much of the anxiety associated with it. Dr. Edmunds suggests that women have a plan (whether written or not), be educated on the process, and involve your OB or midwife in the process. Common wishes in today's birth plans include:

  • Epidural or no epidural
  • Immediate skin-to-skin contact
  • Breastfeeding or formula
  • Who will be at the delivery
  • Who will cut the umbilical cord
  • Whether or not to practice delayed cord clamping

Dr. Edmunds recommends soon-to-be moms talk to friends, family and other moms about what they liked or didn't like about their birthing experience as they make a plan.

Being prepared and knowing your provider well will decrease anxiety and increase your comfort level. Find an OBGYN near you and start planning for baby today.

Sources for image:
http://www.hypnobirthing.com/about/what-is-hypnobirthing-definition/|
http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/water-birth |
https://www.yahoo.com/parenting/inside-the-growing-practice-of-seeding-babies-127085374637.html |
http://www.acog.org/Resources-And-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Obstetric-Practice/Timing-of-Umbilical-Cord-Clamping-After-Birth |
http://www.who.int/elena/titles/full_recommendations/cord_clamping/en/
Sources for image: http://www.hypnobirthing.com/about/what-is-hypnobirthing-definition/| http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/water-birth | https://www.yahoo.com/parenting/inside-the-growing-practice-of-seeding-babies-127085374637.html | http://www.acog.org/Resources-And-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Obstetric-Practice/Timing-of-Umbilical-Cord-Clamping-After-Birth | http://www.who.int/elena/titles/full_recommendations/cord_clamping/en/

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