In a message dated 7/4/01 4:15:49 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

> some babies will have breathing difficulties after
>  >C-sections (because they weren't squeezed through the >birth canal
>  The greatest risk factor for respiratory distress syndrome remains =
>  prematurity and many babies born by section are prems who had foetal =
>  distress - this tends to 'distort' stats. Authors such as Roberton are =
>  now placing less emphasis on the marvels of contractions as a factor in =
>  preventing lung disease......Fluid will be shifted regardless of =
>  contractions.
>
Dear Friends:
    There have been several studies published recently that support
Kathleen's statement, about babies needing the "big squeeze". Apparently
without this activity, without baby being pushed through the birth canal,
the fetal circulation has a tougher time making the switch to air-breathing
circulation. Asthma and primary pulmonary hypertension are more likely to be
found in surgically extracted babies.
    Asthma and PPH have other factors implicated in their etiology. However,
cesarean section adds its own stress on the system. There is a tremendous
push (if you'll pardon the term) for elective cesarean section because
typical birth is seen as so traumatic. The solution proposed by many medical
people is to offer a cesarean section, rather than looking at why birth is so
traumatic. (A US national epidural rate of 60+% or a national induction rate
of over 20% couldn't have any impact on traumatic birth now, could it?)
    This is going to have an enormous impact on breastfeeding and babies. I
predict a 30% US cesarean section rate by 2010. I hope I am wrong.
    Warmly,
Nikki Lee RN, MSN, Mother of 2, IBCLC, CIMI
craniosacral therapy practitioner; childbirth educator
Elkins Park (a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; northeastern USA)
supporting the WHO Code and the Mother Friendly Childbirth Initiative

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