Helen George asked for a caesarean section because 'Call the Midwife' had put her off a natural birth.
Helen George
The 33-year-old actress - who portrays Trixie Franklin in the drama series - gave birth to her daughter Wren, whom she has with her partner and co-star Jack Ashton, four months ago and she has admitted, although she's not "too posh to push", she's relieved she had to deliver the little one via an operation.
She told The Radio Times magazine: "I haven't spoken about this before... but I chose to have a C-section (caesarean). It coincided with the fact that I had to deliver her early, but even without that, I would have gone for an elective caesarean because of what I'd learnt on 'Call the Midwife'.
"Working on 'Call the Midwife' means that lots of people tell you their horror stories about birth. I'm not against natural birth, I'm pro whatever you feel is right for you.
"Some people may not understand why I elected to have a C-section, but it was right for me at the time.
"It's not because I'm 'too posh to push', it's about what I think my body is capable of. I'm not good with pain... I faint when I stub my toe.
"Not that a C-section is the easy way out. It's a major operation. I have a large scar on my stomach. You can't exercise for a long time and you need help to pick up the baby."
Wren was born earlier than expected after Helen was diagnosed with a liver condition called ICP (intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy) which can cause babies to be stillborn.
Meanwhile, the actress will be missing for part of forthcoming instalment of the period drama because producers have agreed to give her time off in order to focus on her little girl.
Creator Heidi Thomas said at a screening that "Helen was able to graciously retire - she just had a couple of episodes off", but it's not yet known how she'll be written out.
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