5 Most Common Birth Interventions
Are you preparing for birth and wondering what medical interventions you might face in labor? Whether you're planning a hospital birth, a birth center birth, a home birth or you're still exploring your options, it’s essential to understand the most common birth interventions and how they might impact your birth experience.
At Anointed Births, we’re passionate about educating and empowering expecting parents to feel confident, informed and supported during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In this blog, we’re diving into the top 5 interventions used during labor and delivery—in both California and across the United States—so you can know what to expect and how to advocate for the birth you desire.
Let’s dive in-
1. Cesarean Section (C-Section)
What it is: A cesarean section is a surgical birth through an incision in the abdomen and uterus.
How common is it? Over 31% of all births in California and 32% nationwide are C-sections.
Why it's used: Some are planned due to medical conditions, while others happen during labor because of complications.
Birth tip: If you’re hoping for a vaginal birth, ask your provider about their C-section rate and under what circumstances they typically recommend surgery. Our birth doulas in Orange County can help you prepare for both vaginal and surgical birth outcomes with confidence. Over 85% of our clients have had vaginal births with 100% VBAC.
2. Epidural for Labor Pain Relief
What it is: An epidural is a common form of pain management where medication is delivered into the spine to relieve contractions.
How common is it? About 70–80% of birthing people in California receive an epidural.
Why it's used: For pain relief during active labor, especially if labor is long or intense.
Birth tip: It’s okay to choose an epidural—and it’s okay not to. Knowing all your pain management options can help you make informed decisions. At Anointed Births, we offer natural birth education and doula support to help you navigate what’s right for you. Over 60% of our clients birthed without epidural analgesia.
3. Labor Induction
What it is: Labor induction involves using medications or other methods to start labor, like Pitocin, cervical ripening agents, or breaking your water.
How common is it? Roughly 30% of all U.S. births involve induction.
Why it's used: Induction may be recommended for medical reasons (like high blood pressure or going past your due date), but sometimes it’s suggested for non-medical reasons too.
Birth tip: Always ask, “Is this medically necessary?” Understanding your right to informed consent is key to a positive experience.
4. Artificial Rupture of Membranes (Breaking Your Water)
What it is: Also known as an amniotomy, this is when your provider breaks your bag of waters to try to speed up labor.
Why it's used: To stimulate contractions or place internal monitors on the baby.
Birth tip: Once your water is broken, the clock starts ticking for delivery due to the increased risk of infection. You have the right to decline this procedure unless there’s a true medical reason.
5. Episiotomy
What it is: An episiotomy is a small surgical cut made in the perineum (between the vagina and anus) during birth.
How common is it? Now used in about 12% of vaginal births in the U.S. (and decreasing).
Why it’s used: Sometimes done to speed up birth or to support the baby in navigating out but evidence shows natural tears often heal better.
Birth tip: Talk with your provider ahead of time about perineal support, upright positions, and other techniques that may reduce the need for an episiotomy.
What These Birth Interventions Mean for You
These interventions are only bad when they are unnecessary—they can be incredibly helpful when used intentionally and with your full consent. But too often, they’re used without proper explanation or offered as the default rather than a choice.
That’s why having a birth doula can be one of the best decisions you make during your pregnancy. At Anointed Births, our Orange County doulas help you:
Understand your options before labor begins
Ask powerful questions during hospital care
Advocate for your values throughout your birth journey
Let’s Create a Birth Experience You’ll Feel Proud Of
Our team is here to support you every step of the way! We’ll help you feel educated, heard, and truly supported. Schedule a free consultation CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION
For more information, visit:
Anything stated in this blog is not medical advice.
Stay Tuned…
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