[Mindful Living NJ Magazine] Cesarean Awareness, Yoga Wellness Symposium and more

April is Cesarean Awareness Month and while the World Health Organization suggests only 10-15 percent of Cesareans are medically necessary, in some New Jersey hospitals, according to the International Cesarean Awareness Network, that rate is as high as 50 percent.

"Make no mistake," says Dr. Michael Magwood, a prenatal and pediatric chiropractor in Clifton, "a C-section is major abdominal surgery, which comes with significant documented risks to both the mother and the baby. Necessary C-sections save lives. However, the fact that moms can choose a Cesarean without medical need is evidence that the risks are not being emphasized and the benefits of natural childbirth are being ignored."

Risks include hemorrhage or blood loss, infection, bladder and bowel injury, heart and lung complications, and blood clots. Half of all women who have Cesareans suffer complications and the risk of death is significantly higher in women who have C-sections than in women who have vaginal births. Magwood believes some doctors are quick to recommend Cesareans before they are clinically justified. "In doing so," he says, "doctors and hospitals often misrepresent the risks and consequences of various birthing options. Some hospitals actually refuse to provide care for mothers planning vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC), a choice that is extremely safe and carries with it a high success rate."

Magwood works with his prenatal clients to prepare them for an optimal birth experience. "I'm really looking to support a woman's birth plan," Magwood explains. "The priority is to help her body function in the most balanced way throughout her pregnancy." Research shows that gentle chiropractic techniques are safe and effective, preparing a woman's pelvis for birth so the baby can make its way through the birth canal with the least difficulty. Also, chiropractic adjustments work to improve how the body adapts to stress, which may help a woman maintain a more peaceful state during childbirth.

"Mine is a team approach," says Magwood, who works in conjunction with OBs, midwives, and doulas. "I'm not looking to frighten women," he emphasizes. "I want to educate and empower women to make healthy, safe choices for themselves and their baby. A chiropractic evaluation is beneficial for a woman before and during her pregnancy, and for baby from Day One."

Dr. Michael Magwood supports pregnant women, moms, infants, and children in achieving optimal wellness. For more information, visit www.drmagwood.com