The increase is due to a higher incidence of cesareans in first-time mothers and a lower incidence of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) in subsequent pregnancies. Some women may think that cesareans are safer for the baby than a vaginal birth. In fact, if you’ve had an uncomplicated pregnancy, a cesarean is hard to justify on medical grounds. Grade 2 and Grade 3 cesareans take place when there’s no immediate threat to life, and these are more common than Grade 1 procedures. A Grade 2 cesarean may be done if your baby’s heart rate is causing concern very early in labor and the prospect of a vaginal delivery taking place within a reasonably short time is low. An example of a Grade 3 cesarean is one that is done because of a failed induction of labor. In some situations, it would be hazardous for either you or your baby if you were to try for a vaginal birth; for example you’ve had multiple previous cesareans or other major surgery to the uterus; the baby can’t be moved from lying horizontally; the placenta is lying very low (see Low-lying placenta); or there are severe pelvic abnormalities in the birth canal. Some maternal medical conditions also mean that vaginal birth is not advisable.
