It has been confirmed that women will be given the right to choose a Caesarean section birth on the NHS.The guidelines issued today by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) state that pregnant women can now opt for a C-section, even
for Caesarean sections, which now account for almost a quarter of births, more than double the number 30 years ago. The operation costs the NHS around £2,500 each, compared with the £750 figure for a natural birth.Expectant mothers will also be informed
with birth plansWhat is the hospital policy on inductions: when might they decide to induce?Number of babies born, intervention and Caesarean ratesWho will deliver your baby?Availability of birthing poolsShower/washing facilitiesTypes of pain relief available
intervention such as a Caesarean. It helps to know - You can refuse to have routine' interventions if they're not medically necessary. For facts and figures about your local maternity unit, such as Caesarean rates and numbers of births per year, visit
to do you think? Do you feel youve been given enough choice about where to have your baby? Tell us in the comments box below Are you considering a home birth? Read our guide- click here
.But birth is of course one of those times in life when events can overtake even the best laid plans. Which is why it's important to think about your ideal birth' before you go into labour, as well as the choices you may have to make about your baby's birth
Having a straightforward birth isn't always down to luck. There's a lot you can do to improve your chances of having a problem-free delivery - from where you choose to give birth, to who you're with, your position and even your state of mind
