Finally, you are ready to start a new chapter of your life. Pregnancy is a memorable and beautiful journey to bring a healthy baby into your life. “Which is better: C-section or natural birth?” This is what most expectant mothers may think of during their pregnancy. Whether it’s a natural birth or surgical delivery by cesarean section, babies can enter this world in one of the two ways. Both methods aim to protect the mother and child's health.
Many pregnant people try comparing C-sections with natural birth. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how the baby arrives, what matters is that the child is born healthy. Here are the major distinctions between natural births and C-sections so expectant parents can be ready for either situation.
C-sections Delivery
C-section or caesarean delivery, is the surgical procedure by which one or more babies are delivered through an incision in the mother's abdomen, often performed because vaginal delivery would put the baby or mother at risk. Cesarean sections are sometimes the most secure method of giving delivery when there is a medical emergency or complication.
In a c-section delivery, the baby is removed from the mother's womb through surgery. It requires an abdominal incision, either horizontally or vertically. As a result, it lessens the medical issues that can arise during delivery. A scheduled C-section procedure typically lasts 45 minutes from beginning to end. The delivery of the newborn during an emergency C-section might only take a few minutes.
Majority of C-sections are carried out on pregnant women who are awake, and in order to numb the bottom half of their bodies, they typically receive an epidural or a spinal block. The anesthesia and painkillers will make the procedure itself painless. Nevertheless, you might experience pressure during the C-section and a tugging feeling as the baby is extracted.
Natural Birth
Expecting mothers will go through labor as her cervix enlarges during a natural birth. The baby's head is moved toward the vaginal entrance by uterine contractions, which feel like extremely painful menstrual cramps, digestive discomfort, or severe backaches. The baby then pushes its way out after emerging. Due to the fact that labor is usually very excruciating and lasts for several hours, many pregnant women choose to use painkillers like an epidural. Some people might decide not to use any medications during this procedure.
Most likely, you will be able to hold your newborn right away. For first-time parents, delivery and labor can last 12 to 14 hours or even longer. It's usually quicker for subsequent births, but not always. Each birth experience is unique and usually doesn't go exactly as planned or anticipated, even if you have done it before, just like every pregnancy is different.
There is no correct method to give birth to a newborn child. Natural birth does, on average, result in improved outcomes, but it is not always the best choice if there are any medical concerns. Although a c-section can be an essential, life-saving procedure, it carries risks and is not advised without a doctor's approval. Don’t get too worried about this, you may consult your doctor and discuss with your partner before making any decision.
No matter which way you chose or decided, you might need some help for after-birth recovery. Here are some recommendations on the maternal recovery needs from BB King Kong for a safe and healthy recovery journey!
1. F Waist Postpartum Compression Underwear with targeted, comfortable compression, reduces swelling and provides slimming postpartum support with built in 100% medical-grade silicone panel to minimizes the C-section scarring, reduces irritation, and protects incision area while helping to banish that incision bulge. No uncomfortable binding waistband across your midsection and no hooks, bands, or Velcro, so nothing touches your incision area. Available in S/M and L/XL box.
2. UpSpring Post Baby High Waist Postpartum Compression Underwear is a medical grade compression to slim and support for postpartum moms, helps support your post baby belly, providing full torso slimming from bra line to hips and designed for after vaginal delivery. Looks great under clothing; no bulky Velcro or straps. Available in S/M and L/XL box.
Hyperlinks:
- Picture 1 / C-Panty: https://bbkingkong.com/products/upspring-c-panty-high-waist-postpartum-compression-underwear-black
- Picture 2 / Post Baby: https://bbkingkong.com/products/upspring-post-baby-high-waist-postpartum-compression-underwear-black
References:
1. Ahmad Harharah, L. (2021) What's better? natural birth, or a C-section?, Parkway East Hospital. Parkway East Hospital. Available at: https://www.parkwayeast.com.sg/healthplus/article/natural-delivery-caesarean-delivery (Accessed: February 27, 2023).
2. Singh, E. (2017) Vaginal birth vs C-section - pros and cons - by dr. Ekta Singh, Lybrate. Lybrate. Available at: https://www.lybrate.com/topic/vaginal-birth-vs-c-section-pros-and-cons/63d3fde0af7937abab223c88f774bd08 (Accessed: February 27, 2023).
3. Teen, L. (2023) C-section vs. natural birth: Which is the better option?, Mommy Labor Nurse. Available at: https://mommylabornurse.com/c-section-vs-natural-birth/ (Accessed: February 27, 2023).
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