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Martinez Hospital Bucks Trends, Reduces C-Sections

MARTINEZ (KCBS) – The Contra Costa County hospital in Martinez is going against a national trend by significantly reducing repeat C-section deliveries, leading to widespread recognition for its perinatal program.

Approximately 15 percent of all babies born in the county are delivered at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center in Martinez. The chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Judy Bliss, said that the hospital has worked hard to reduce C-section deliveries whenever possible.

"Once you've had one, each subsequent C-section has more risk," said Bliss.

KCBS' Dave Padilla Reports:

Bliss said that a special perinatal program was developed to help more women who have had a cesarean delivery avoid this major surgery with their next pregnancy.

"Women who have a natural birth go home more quickly. They're not in the hospital as long, and they're more comfortable," said Bliss.

The vaginal birth after a cesarean program has received the Quality Leaders Top Honor award from the California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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