The National Institue for Clinical Excellence (NICE) have issued new guidance on C section procedures within the NHS sparking great debate within the press about the concept of being 'too posh to push' and the move away from natural delivery 'as nature intended' versus those who argue that Caesarean sections often provide a safer mode of delivery for babies and mothers alike in some circumstances and can provide a less traumatic experince for some pregnant women when their babies are born.
Dr Beattie was part of drawing up the original guidelines in 2004 and welcomes the changes. He would tell you that in most uncomplicated, singleton pregnancies vaginal delivery is best for both Mum and baby but there are many times when a C Section may be the better option. He has been widely quoted this week in the national press including news and opinion pieces in Marie Claire, The Mirror, The Sun, The Daily Mail and The Telegraph who also published an opinion piece.
Hopefully the new guidelines will mean that whatever their final choice about their baby's birth, Mums to be will be given comprehensive information about the pros and cons and be able to make an informed choice about their health and that of their new bundle of joy.