Can Cesareans Be Prevented? 5 Ways to Lower Your Risk and Advocate for Your Birth

Let’s talk honestly—cesarean births are sometimes absolutely necessary, life-saving, and the best call for parent and baby. But not every cesarean is necessary.

In fact, in the U.S., 1 in 3 births happen by cesarean, and the rates are even higher for Black women, often due to over-medicalized care, systemic racism, and implicit bias.

So, can cesareans be prevented? Sometimes, yes. And more importantly—informed parents can make empowered decisions that lower their risk of unnecessary surgical birth. Here's what you need to know:

1. Understand the Top Reasons for Cesareans

Some cesareans are due to true emergencies—like placenta previa, fetal distress, or a stalled labor. But many happen for reasons that are avoidable with time, patience, and support, such as:

• “Failure to progress” (often declared too early)

• Inductions that don’t go as planned

• Provider impatience

• Hospital policies that rush the process

2. Ask These Questions During Prenatal Visits

• How long do you typically let someone labor before suggesting a cesarean?

• What’s your cesarean rate?

• How do you support physiologic birth?

• What’s your philosophy on VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean)?

3. Get a Doula or Advocate on Your Team

Research shows that having a doula reduces your chances of cesarean by up to 39%. We can help you ask the right questions, support your comfort in labor, and advocate for evidence-based care.

4. Understand the Unique Risks

Black Women Face Black women are more likely to have unnecessary cesareans and less likely to have their pain or preferences respected. That’s not your fault. That’s the system—and you deserve culturally competent care, protection, and advocacy from your birth team.

5. Don’t Just Plan for a “Natural Birth”—Plan for All Outcomes

You can hope for the birth you want while preparing for the one you may need. A gentle cesarean birth plan gives you tools, options, and voice in case your path shifts.

Final Thoughts:

Birth is not about perfection—it’s about power. You are allowed to ask questions. You are allowed to slow things down. And you are allowed to protect your body and birth experience. If you want help preparing for your birth—vaginal, cesarean, or somewhere in between—I’m here for you.

xoxo,

Ravae

Resources:

• Birth Connections Childbirth Education Class

  • Want to build a birth plan that reduces risk of unnecessary intervention? Check out our childbirth class for modern parents that includes cesarean awareness and advocacy tools.”

• Doula Services or free Birth Planning Call

  • Not sure how to talk to your provider? Book a free 20-minute call or learn more about hiring a doula from our team here.”