C-section Vs. vaginal birth delivery methods

The conversation about childbirth delivery methods’ continues to be heard in hospital rooms and corridors but is there the best method?

Perhaps one of the most important conversations among women and especially pregnant women and their doctors is the conversation around childbirth delivery methods.

The topic alone may be overwhelming for first-time moms-to-be and cause them distress. While it is natural to worry, reports suggest that speaking to a qualified female doctor such as a gynecologist can help alleviate all the grey areas about the birthing process and its related delivery methods.

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It’s a known fact that women go through extreme body changes in their first months of pregnancy, in preparation for carrying the fetus. While the process can be fun for some, it can be equally stressful for others.

However, having a pregnancy plan in place can help first-time moms-to-be plan and decide between the two birthing options, with the guidance of their doctor of course.

Types of childbirth delivery methods

There are two types of birthing methods — C-section (Cesarean section) and Vaginal birth. A C-section is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made on the abdomen and the uterus of the mother to deliver the baby.

Vaginal birth, on the other hand, as self-explanatory as it sounds, involves giving birth through a woman’s private part, the vagina. The goal of both methods is to ensure that the mother and baby are safe and healthy.

Pros and cons: C-section Vs. Vaginal birth

A planned cesarean section is often carried out when there are multiple deliveries such as when the mother is carrying twins, the baby is large, breech presentation (the baby is lying feet-first instead of head-first position) or the mother has medical conditions in most cases according to various sources.

The procedure can either be planned (elective) or require an emergency C-section due to complications encountered during labour.

• The pros of the cesarean section include quicker and shorter delivery, lower risk for urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control), and elimination of long hours of painful labour, while the pros of vaginal delivery could include a shorter hospital stay, ability to bond and initiate breastfeeding right after birth, and quicker recovery time according to Parents.

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• The cons for C-sections may include longer hospital stays, longer recovery time, and the risk of the baby developing respiratory problems among others. On the other hand, a vaginal birth may present cons such as long hours of labour, especially for first-time mothers, vaginal tearing, or suffering bladder control.

Complications: C-section Vs. Vaginal birth

Complications could be encountered for each childbirth method. For cesarean section, mothers could react negatively to anesthesia, suffer bladder or bowel injuries during the surgery, experience hemorrhage, or develop infections to the uterus lining and the incision.

On the other hand, mothers giving birth through the vagina could suffer perineal tears (a tear between a woman’s vagina and her an*s) or require episiotomy — a procedure in which the vagina is cut to enlarge its opening.

Side effects: C-section Vs. Vaginal birth

Mothers are likely to experience postpartum side effects after birth. For C-sections, side effects such as nausea, weakness, or respiratory problems could be encountered. Meanwhile, vaginal side effects may involve vaginal bleeding, soreness, and swelling among others.

It’s important to remember that each pregnancy is unique, so the topic of the “best” method is debatable. However, speaking to your doctor or healthcare provider can be helpful for all moms-to-be.

“Your labor and delivery experience will be unique to you. During pregnancy, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different types of delivery and other terms associated with childbirth. Your pregnancy care provider will recommend the safest delivery method based on your medical history and pregnancy,” reports Cleveland Clinic.

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