Local Statistics

Recently, for a class, research was required concerning local birth statistics in my area, which I thought I would share.  I’m happy to report Washington state’s cesarean rate is lower than the national average.  I hope to see our breastfeeding rates increase in 2017.

• Cesarean Rates 2015, taken from the state website, “Data and Statistical Reports”: Cowlitz County:  Out of 871 births, 10% were primary Cesareans with 4.4%  VBACs (Vaginal Delivery After Cesarean).   Clark County:  Out of 5,596 births, 15% were primary cesareans with 4% VBAC.
• 2013 Statewide statistics taken from, Cesareanrates.com:  Primary cesareans, 23.7%, VBAC 17.1%.
• Breastfeeding rates for 2016, statewide, taken from the CDC Breastfeeding Report Card:  Ever breastfed, 87.4; exclusively at 3-months, 51.7; exclusively at 6-months, 28.0.
• 2012 state WIC breastfeeding rates: 87.7% at birth with 46.4% at 6-months.

Washington state recognizes both Certified Nurse Midwives and Licensed Midwives with home births being legal.

There are three freestanding or home birth attending midwifery businesses, that I am aware of, within 30 minutes of Longview, WA.  These are; Birth and Family Midwifery, Birth, Babies and Beyond Midwifery, and Laura Hamilton, Midwife.

Research for this class did not include midwives or obstetricians affiliated with local hospitals.  Please see your local hospitals website for those options.