Amazon book review of ‘Caesarean Birth: A positive approach to preparation and recovery’

A lovely Amazon review for my caesarean book … thank you.

“As other reviews have pointed out, this book is a no-nonsense, practical and very informative guide which helps women to be prepared for caesarean as a possible outcome of any birth, and to make informed choices about the birth they want.

Although there are endless pregnancy guides available, most seem to mention caesarean birth only in passing and more than a few imply that caesarean is a drastic intervention to be avoided at almost any cost. However, as the author points out, there is no clear evidence that the overall risks for women planning small families are higher [than vaginal births]. Inexplicably, sufficient caesarean information is omitted from many antenatal classes despite the fact that many women will end up having the procedure. This lack of preparedness in itself is likely to contribute to a negative experience of caesarean birth.

It’s important to stress that that book does not promote planned caesarean over vaginal birth but rather aims to give women detailed information which enables them to consider the full range of choices for their birth, and to be prepared for the possibility of a caesarean even if they would prefer to attempt a natural birth. The author is scrupulously balanced and factual, backing up information given with detailed references. After reading it you will feel in a much better position to have an informed discussion with your medical advisers about your choices in your particular pregnancy circumstances.

One useful aspect of the book is that it distinguishes between planned and emergency caesareans. Statistics for straightforward planned caesareans are often lumped in with those for emergency caesareans performed after an attempted vaginal birth that has, by definition, encountered complications (hence the need for the caesarean). Unsurprisingly, outcomes for caesareans seem to be misleadingly bad when apples and oranges are compared in this confusing way. The author points out the difficulty of disentangling the negative outcomes often associated with caesareans from the condition or complications which lead to an emergency caesarean taking place.

This book is for those who suspect they are not getting the full picture from those with a natural birth agenda, and want clear, factual information in order to make a rational decision about the birth of their baby.”