One interesting resource is birth educator Pam England's article on c-sections on her web site www.birthingfromwithin.net The article is a fresh look at c-sections and is a must read.

If having a vaginal birth is important to you, you should make finding a birth practitioner who is philosophically aligned with you on this so that you know they will explore every option before resorting to surgery. Choosing a to give birth with a midwife is one way to decrease your chance of having a c-section, but with a little searching you can also find obstetricians who support this also.

Even if you have already had a cesarean, it is still possible to have a vaginal birth the next time around. This is called a VBAC, or Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. VBACs must be planned because not all hospitals and not all practitioners will preform them because there is some controversy as to weather they are safe for the mother and baby. Although there is also a growing body of evidence finding that VBAC's are safe, the information is sometimes hard to sort through--many claiming insurance companies have set the policy on VBAC's others debunking this claim and still others saying VBACs are safe but should only be attempted in a facility equipped to handle an emergency. So, if you are considering having a VBAC, get informed.

New York City Doctor's Supportive of Natural Childbirth and VBACs

To find a doctor supportive of natural childbirth, vaginal birth or VBAC's you must ask around. We've heard about a some NYC OBGYNs that we've listed below, although we must point out of course, that you'll have to do your own research to find the right practitioner for you and your specific situation. Further, we have no connection to these doctors other than that they were recommended by friends or colleagues as being good doctors, supportive of women seeking vaginal births.

Dr. Renuka Paka (212) 523-8335

Dr. Jacques Moritz, Saint Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital (212) 603-4160

Dr Rivera Cassamento (212) 734-1893

Dr Juanita Jenyons-- St Lukes Roosevelt and the Birthing Center (212) 769-4171

Dr. Anne Carlon (212) 988-8100

Dr. Allegra Cummings St Lukes Roosevelt Hospital (212) 636-1130‎

Village Obstetrics and Gynecology Dr. George Mussalli and Dr. Jaqueline Worth, St. Vincent's (212) 627-9556

Dr. Gae Rodke (212)496-9800