News Release

Lamaze International President Michele Deck Responds to USA Today’s Article: “Decline in U.S. births goes beyond the ailing economy” 10/3.

Contact:  Mollie Turner, JPA, 202-591-4062, mollie@jpa.com
For Release: October 16, 2012

Dear Editor,

The recent article on new CDC births data, “Decline in U.S. births goes beyond the ailing economy,” missed an important point. The upward spiral of cesarean births may be coming to an end; however, we’re a long way from declaring victory. With one-in-three women still having surgical birth, we’re not even close to women and babies getting optimal care. The cesarean rate is only one indicator. High rates of induction, underuse of VBAC, and the use of routine, but potentially harmful, interventions like continuous fetal monitoring and confinement to bed can lead women and babies down a dangerous path.

Lamaze educators think some of the credit should go to women themselves for the slow-down in cesareans. Pregnant women are coming to class seeking out ways to avoid unnecessary surgery, like choosing care providers who have lower cesarean rates. Childbirth education class is a place where they can get the information they need to push for the best care possible. There’s still much improvement to be made. Expecting moms can find answers at: www.PushforYourBaby.com.

Sincerely,

Michele Deck, RN, MEd, BSN, LCCE, FACCE
President of Lamaze International

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About Push for Your Baby
Push for Your Baby was created by Lamaze International to provide expectant parents with the support and information needed to push for the safest, healthiest birth possible. Knowing how to spot good maternity care is the key to getting it, and through Lamaze childbirth education classes, parents-to-be can get the tools needed to have the best birth day. For more information visit: www.PushForYourBaby.com.

About Lamaze International
Lamaze International promotes a natural, healthy and safe approach to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting practices.  Knowing that pregnancy and childbirth can be demanding on a woman’s body and mind, Lamaze serves as a resource for information about what to expect and what choices are available during the childbearing years.  Lamaze education and practices are based on the best and most current medical evidence available.  Working closely with their families, health care providers and Lamaze educators, millions of pregnant women have achieved their desired childbirth outcomes using Lamaze practices.  The best way to learn about Lamaze’s steps to a safe and healthy birth is to take a class with a Lamaze certified instructor.  To find classes in your area, or for more information visit www.lamaze.org.