Study Shows Wait if Your Labor is Stalled
Wait Two Hours During a Stalled Labor May Reduce Health Risks
Imagine being in active labor and suddenly everything stalls. You are tired, ready to be done and are both physically and emotionally weak. At this point, some obstetricians might suggest a C-Section. And you might just decide that this sounds like a good idea.
But a new study from California has revealed that women who wait two hours if their labor has stalled in the active phase can reduce health risks to both their babies and themselves. The best part? This could eliminate 130,000 or more cesarean deliveries in the United States alone.
What does it mean if you have stalled? This is when you are in the active phase of labor and your cervix fails to dilate for two or more hours. Ouch!
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women are given two hours of waiting time when things are stalled, before a c-section is considered. However, many ob/gyn’s do not follo w this, even today.
As a matter of fact, 1/3 of first time c-sections occur when labor has stalled. This increases the risk for maternal hemorrhage, which may cause the need for a blood transfusion and possibly post-op infections. Furthermore, having a first time cesarean section causes women to have increased risks in future pregnancies.
If you find your normal labor is stalled, ask if you can get up and move. Being on your back in a bed stops gravity, which can help you to deliver your baby. Try to walk, sit on a birthing ball or at least stand in a shower with help. If you are unable to move due to an epidural, talk to your doctor about waiting a full two hours before considering a c-section.
