General Information

• Caesarean Birth: Making Informed Choices is an online booklet covering all elements of C-section, from planning to recovery.
• Caesarean.org.uk offers information and support on many aspects of C-section and vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), including articles, photos of C-section scars and a C-section birth plan.
• Cochrane Review fact sheet Planned Cesarean Section for Twin Pregnancies reviews the risks and benefits of this procedure.
• International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) provides information about C-section in the name of preventing unnecessary C-sections, providing support for C-section recovery and promoting VBAC.
• My Birth Matters is a resource featuring short videos, tips and other guidance to help you avoid an unneeded C-section.
• This map shows state-level C-section rates in the United States.
• Books:
• The Essential C-Section Guide: Pain Control, Healing at Home, Getting Your Body Back, and Everything Else You Need to Know About Cesarean Birth (2004) by Maureen Connolly and Dana Sullivan addresses what C-section entails, what to expect during recovery and things to consider for future pregnancies and deliveries.
• The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth (1999) by Henci Goer helps you compare and contrast your various options and shows you how to avoid unnecessary procedures, drugs, restrictions and tests.
• Understanding the Dangers of Cesarean Birth: Making Informed Decisions (2008) by Nicette Jukelevics covers the full range of topics related to C-section and includes research, reducing risks for C-section and changing the status quo.
• For more information on vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), visit the dedicated section of this website here.

Data on Hospital C-Section Rates

These tools help you compare C-section and VBAC rates at various hospitals.

• Consumer Reports’ Hospital Ratings: Avoiding C-Sections
• The Leapfrog Group’s C-Section Rates by Hospital
• Cesareanrates.com
• Cesareanrates.com’s Where Can I VBAC? 

The C-Section Experience and Recovery Resources

• Birthrites is a comprehensive website for women who have had a C-section.
• A doula can help with your recovery, your baby’s needs, your relationships and household tasks. Find one through DONA International.
• CSectionRecovery.com offers online forums and information on a wide variety of topics related to C-section.
• Video of birth by C-section.
• Cesarean Recovery (2004) by Chrissie Gallagher-Mundy covers key elements of mom’s recovery following a C-section through six months after birth.

Breech (Buttocks- or Feet-First) Position Resources

• American Academy of Family Physicians’ What Can I Do If My Baby is Breech? describes how your maternity care provider can help turn the baby to a head-first position for delivery.

Peer Support for C-Section

• The International Cesarean Awareness Network coordinates local chapters for women to discuss C-section experience. You can find your local chapter here.

Resources for Loved Ones

• The Birth Partner: A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Doulas, and All Other Labor Companions (4th edition, 2013) by Penny Simkin will help build knowledge, skills and confidence in your partner, friend or family member as she or he prepares to offer labor support.