Congestion on the approach frequency is at the heart of the problem.
Often it is impossible to ask for a clarification - and sometimes near
impossible to get approach's attention at all. One time I wanted to
transition a Class C, and had to listen to a long-winded conversation
between the controller and a pilot. Since they wouldn't shut up long
enough for me to "get a word in edgewise", I had to deliberately
transmit on top of the other pilot to get the controller's attention.

The best solution, if you can, is to avoid those places altogether.
Most destinations have uncontrolled airports nearby, and I, for one,
will always choose to use them - unless there is some pressing
reason to use the towered airport. I used to be based at a Class C,
but chose to move to an uncontrolled airport twice as far from where
I lived - because I got sick and tired of the hassle.

David Johnson