C-sections scrutinised as hospitals free space

Planned caesarean sections are being tightly scrutinised at Auckland hospitals as boards try to free up space for any influx of coronavirus cases.

The move by Auckland District Health Board to “double-check” the clinical reasons for elective C-sections comes as the number of Covid-19 cases continues to rise in a lockeddown New Zealand.

“Like all DHBs, at Auckland DHB we have been preparing to ensure we have capacity for Covid-19 cases,” a spokeswoman said. “As part of this work, we are double-checking there is clinical indication for caesarean sections, as these cannot be performed or publicly funded in New Zealand unless there is a clinical reason to do so.”

One expectant first-time Auckland mother was devastated when told her long-planned caesarean scheduled for next week had been cancelled in favour of a natural birth. With a family history of birth complications, her C-section had been planned since day one, supported by her obstetrician.

After her obstetrician lobbied on her behalf, she got the news yesterday that her caesarian would go ahead next week as planned.

Though she appreciated New Zealanders were making sacrifices and lifestyle changes during the Covid-19 pandemic, and accepted there would be no visitors allowed after the birth, she didn’t believe the safety of herself and her unborn child, should be put at risk.

“Most people who have C-sections, do so for a reason, whether it’s a psychological reason or a medical one. The whole ‘too posh to push’ is a bit of a fallacy.”

The College of Midwives wouldn’t comment on DHB policy but midwifery adviser Claire MacDonald said midwives were used to working under pressure and were coping with the Covid-19 crisis.

“Women can be assured that midwifery care and maternity support is, and will continue to be, available for them at this challenging time. Midwives always put the safety and well-being of a woman and baby, as the top priority, and that will not change.”

Expectant mothers are worried not only about catching the virus but about how it will impact their birth plans, their ability to cope, and their babies’ first vital days.

Wellington mum Katie Williamson said giving birth during the Level 4 lockdown was very tense.

She said the staff were amazing but she was allowed only one support person during labour.

Once she was home, the midwife could come for only 15 minutes, rather than an hour.

“Our baby is doing really well,” Williamson said.

“And the birth, once induced, was actually amazing, it was really fast. It was the unknowns in between that were stressful.”