#484: Isthmocoele, Infertility & Other Lesser Known Cesarean Risks

Cesarean sections can be lifesaving. But are women actually being told about the potential long-term consequences before they consent to one?

This week, Blyss and Stu dig into some of the lesser-discussed risks of cesarean birth, particularly the risks that may not show up until months or even years later.

Stu walks through research examining isthmocoeles and the broader long-term outcomes associated with cesarean delivery, including future fertility, placenta previa and accreta, uterine rupture, miscarriage, stillbirth, and potential childhood outcomes.

But this isn't an episode about frightening women away from cesareans. It's about informed decision-making. As Blyss points out, being informed shouldn't mean you're expected to consent. Women deserve to understand both the benefits and the risks, including the downstream risks that may affect their bodies, their babies, and pregnancies they haven't even had yet.

References:

Kristine’s instagram post

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DdB70-Ohaek/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&stkn=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

FriYAY! Instagram.com/birthinginstincts

Allowed to Birth Ashland Screening

https://rova.live/event/allowed-to-birth-film-screening-presented-by-woven-moon-2026-10-27-1800

Classical Midwifery Conference - Tbilisi Georgia, 2027

gentlebirths.net/classicalmidwiferyconference