What is International Cesarean Awareness Month?

International Cesarean Awareness Month, observed every April, is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about cesarean sections (C-sections), promoting recovery, and advocating for vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) when possible. This observance aims to educate expectant parents about the risks and benefits of cesarean deliveries, support cesarean recovery, and reduce the unnecessary use of C-sections through informed decision-making. It also serves to highlight the importance of respecting and supporting all birthing choices.

History and Origin

The initiative for International Cesarean Awareness Month is spearheaded by the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN), among other advocacy groups, in response to the rising cesarean section rates worldwide. Established to inform women of their childbirth options, ICAN and similar organizations have worked tirelessly to ensure that cesarean sections are performed for medically necessary reasons and that women who undergo this surgical procedure receive the support they need for a healthy recovery.

Who Celebrates International Cesarean Awareness Month?

• Expectant Parents: Individuals and couples seeking information on childbirth options, including cesarean delivery and VBAC.
• Medical Professionals: Obstetricians, midwives, and childbirth educators involved in the care and support of pregnant and birthing women.
• Cesarean Section Advocacy Groups: Organizations like ICAN that provide resources, support, and advocacy for women who have had or may have a cesarean section.
• Postpartum Support Groups: Networks that offer support to women recovering from cesarean sections, focusing on physical and emotional healing.
• General Public: Anyone interested in understanding the complexities of cesarean sections and supporting maternal health.

Slogans and Themes

International Cesarean Awareness Month is embraced with themes of empowerment, education, and recovery. Slogans like “Informed Birth Choices,” “Supporting Cesarean Recovery,” and “Empower Parents, Reduce Cesareans” emphasize the goals of raising awareness, encouraging informed childbirth decisions, and promoting healthy recovery practices.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

• Colors: The color burgundy is often associated with cesarean awareness, symbolizing strength, healing, and support.
• Symbols: The cesarean section scar is a powerful symbol of the experience many women share. Awareness ribbons and images depicting support and empowerment are also common.
• Patterns: Imagery related to childbirth, motherhood, and supportive care practices are utilized to convey the message of cesarean awareness and support.

Most Used Hashtags

• #InternationalCesareanAwarenessMonth
• #CesareanAwareness
• #VBAC
• #EmpoweredBirth
• #CesareanRecovery

How to Celebrate

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the reasons for cesarean sections, the potential risks and benefits, and share this knowledge with others to promote informed birthing choices.
• Participate in Events and Workshops: Attend or organize seminars, webinars, and support groups focused on cesarean awareness, recovery, and VBAC options.
• Share Personal Stories: If you’re comfortable, share your cesarean birth experience to provide insight, support, and encouragement to others navigating similar journeys.
• Support Cesarean Advocacy Groups: Donate to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to supporting women who have undergone cesarean sections and advocating for maternal health.
• Promote Cesarean Recovery Resources: Spread the word about resources and support networks available to women recovering from cesarean deliveries to help facilitate their physical and emotional healing.

International Cesarean Awareness Month is a crucial time for advocating for women’s health rights, promoting informed decision-making in childbirth, and supporting the recovery of those who undergo cesarean sections. By participating in this observance, we contribute to a more informed, empowered, and supportive birthing community