Pregnant women can give birth to their children in two different ways namely by vaginal delivery or by means of Caesarean. Normally, doctors recommend a C-section delivery when vaginal delivery seems to be risky for the expecting mother.
A pregnant woman is informed well in advance of whether she would need a C-section delivery or is capable of delivering her baby in a normal way. Whatever means are used it is not a matter of concern provided a healthy baby is given birth safely.
It is essential to know the threats and benefits of both the techniques of delivery. Let us learn about the pros and cons of natural delivery and C-section deliveries.
Pros of Vaginal Delivery
- The body of every woman is naturally equipped to give birth vaginally which is the most natural way of child birth. This process does not need any medical mediation. When the cervix commences to stretch, a woman starts getting her labor pains that terminates with the birth of her new born.
- In a normal delivery, a woman needs to push her baby through the birth channel to introduce him to the world. This activity induces a sense of achievement in a woman.
- Normal delivery allows a shorter stay in the hospital after childbirth as the recovery time taken is rapid and you experience minimal postpartum pain.
- Babies born through vaginal delivery is likely to have less respiratory issues, pulmonary hypertension, food allergies, asthma and intolerance of lactose.
- If your first delivery is a natural one, then the deliveries which follow will allow shorter labor and the mother will be able to breastfeed her baby more effectively.
- Decreased threat of blood clots and maternal hemorrhage exist in vaginal delivery.
Cons of Vaginal Delivery
- A pregnant woman experiences a feeling of nervousness and confusions of childbirth if she is expecting a vaginal delivery.
- Vaginal birth is considered to be uncomplicated but there can be instances where bleeding or perineum tearing from vaginal delivery may occur.
- There is a possibility of your baby facing the risk of oxygen deficiency, bruises and swelling while passing through the birth canal.
- Often there is a chance of your pelvic organ prolapsing after vaginal delivery.
- In case of episiotomy, there is a possibility of experiencing pain after intercourse during the first three months following childbirth.
- You are likely to injure your tailbone during child delivery and also experience an increased rate of urine leaks due to prolonged pushing to deliver a child.
Pros of Cesarean Section Delivery
- During cesarean section delivery women experience less anxiety and confusion for giving birth to their child.
- Cesareans have a less chance of postpartum hemorrhage.
- A planned cesarean has a reduced possibility of complications like infections, harm to abdominal organs, risk of birth trauma or anesthesia related issues.
- There lies a reduced rate of pelvic floor injury.
Cons of Cesarean Section Delivery
- Cesarean section delivery leads to possible chances of heart attacks, blood clotting in veins, bleeding, postpartum infection, pain around the scarred area, reduced bowel function, respiratory problems in newborns and risks of neonatal death in infants.
- The procedure for cesarean is expensive compared to a normal delivery.
- Woman become uneasy after a C-section and requires time to have immediate contact with their newborn. As a result, they find breastfeeding to be difficult.
- A previous C-section surgery leads to a risk of uterine rupture.
No matter whichever process is handled for childbirth, pregnant women should follow the doctor’s advice so as to have a healthy baby without risks.