C Section Birth Pros & Cons

When it comes to delivery of your baby there are two options.  Either you can decide on having a natural childbirth.  Or, for medical reasons or privately you can opt for a c-section of Caesarean instead.

You may be surprised to learn that the Caesarean method of childbirth is not a new thing.  In fact it’s been around for thousands of years.  Sure, medical science has progressed massively over this time but the basics have remained the same.  So, if you have then option

  Recommended

 

of a normal vaginal birth or a Caesarian section; which do you choose?

If you’re primary concern is pain related then it’s simply not a case of deciding on a Caesarean.  We all know that Giving Birth isn’t for the fait hearted.  That said, there are plenty of things you can do, like the Lamaze breathing technique that will help control labor pain if you decide to go down the natural route.

Although not often mentioned vaginal childbirth does come with risks too.  Breech birth can occur and is when your baby is upside down, in other words it will be born bum first rather than head first.  Other complications involve the umbilical cord being wrapped around your baby’s neck or getting tangled, thereby restricting oxygen.  In such cases, a Caesarean may be the only option, or if not too critical forceps and other techniques are used to help deliver your baby.

Also, babies’ heads range is size, so it’s not uncommon to require a few stitches down below if tearing is evident, but C-Sections come with their own set of risks.

A Caesarean delivery will obviously require surgery.  So cutting through the abdominal wall together with the pelvic muscles and uterus is a major operation.  Though a Caesarean section is less painful than vaginal birth, the anticipated recovery time can be extended, especially since anaesthesia is required with the operation.  Another drawback is that a scar will be evident after the procedure.  However, most women generally accept this as the scar is below the bikini line and so only you will know it’s there. 

Another concern, although relatively small is that any drugs used during the C-Section will be passed directly to your baby.  

The Pro’s To a Caesarean Delivery:

• It is considered that there is less risk to your baby, especially when the baby is in an abnormal position such as breech.
• Over a third of breech births result in a C-Section.
• The Caesarean can be scheduled.
• Although it’s classed as major surgery, a Caesarean is considered low risk and performed thousands of time each year.

The Con’s To a Caesarean Delivery:

• Surgery is needed
• Aesthetic is used
• C Section recovery time
• C-Section scars below your bikini line

The Pro’s To a Vaginal Delivery:

• Recovery time is faster.  All being well you will be able to leave the hospital the next day

The Cons To a Vaginal Delivery:

• Having To go through the pain of Labor
• Exhaustion

If you are still undecided, then consider this.  A Caesarean is generally considered safer for your baby; however a vaginal delivery is often safer for the mother.  Almost all deliveries - both vaginal and Caesarean occur without problems, producing a healthy baby.

In either case there are rarely long-term negative impacts to either mother or baby. However, knowing the pros and cons of both methods can only help expectant women make an informed decision about giving birth.