Every pregnant woman wishes to have a successful childbirth experience. However, it is sometimes difficult to tell what exactly will happen at birth. Nevertheless, most individuals will have a plan in mind of what they hope for regarding their labor and delivery journey. Typically, there are various methods of delivery that your doctor can use or recommend. This article aims to discuss cesarean birth (C-section) and vaginal delivery.
Cesarean Birth: What is it?
Cesarean birth involves making surgical incisions in your uterus and abdomen to allow the delivery of your baby. Your doctor might advise you to take a C-section following a medical complication called a planned cesarean section. On the other hand, a cesarean section can be unplanned and happen during delivery when some issues come up.
Usually, your doctor will advise you to have a planned cesarean birth for the following reasons:
- If you have a large baby or baby with fetal macrosomia
- If you are expecting multiple babies
- If you previously had a cesarean birth
- If you have placenta Previa
- If you have obstructions such as uterine fibroids
- If your baby is positioned bottom or feet first
While you might expect a normal delivery, this can change, resulting in another delivery method like C- section. Therefore, this results in an unplanned cesarean section. Here are some conditions that can lead to unplanned C-sections during labor:
- Abruption of the placenta
- Un-progressing labor
- Excessive bleeding or hemorrhage
- Umbilical cord prolapse
- Fetal distress
What are the Benefits Associated with C-Section?
- Reduced risk of oxygen deprivation to the bay at birth
- Decreased risk of sexual dysfunction
- Reduced risk of baby trauma following vaginal passage
What are the Risks Associated with Cesarean Section Deliveries?
Since C- section involves a surgery like any other, it comes with some risks, which include the following:
- Injury to the bladder or bowel
- Excessive loss of blood
- Infections
- Extended recovery time
- Blood clots can enter the bloodstream resulting in embolism
The good news is that you can get online resources offering excellent C- section recovery tips.
Vaginal Birth: What is it?
This includes bearing a child naturally through the birth canal or the vagina. Vaginal delivery is the most common type of delivery, carrying the lowest risks. This delivery usually happens between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. Additionally, the delivery has three main stages, which include labor, birth, and placenta delivery.
Vaginal delivery can be in two forms: Induced and spontaneous
- Induced vaginal delivery
This occurs when techniques such as drugs are used to induce labor and relax the cervical muscles. Induced delivery is usually recommended if the pregnant mother is past due or has a medical condition.
- Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery
A spontaneous vaginal delivery occurs naturally without the influence of labor-inducing drugs. It includes ideally going into labor naturally at 40 weeks of pregnancy.
What are the Benefits of Vaginal Delivery?
- Reduced infection rates
- Easier breastfeeding and lactation
- Safe for the baby and the mother
- Increased recovery rate
- Reduced risk for respiratory issues and the babies have a stronger immune system.