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Natural Delivery versus C-section
Nov 15, 2022
A study by National Institute of Clinical Excellence in Britain highlighted that the risks of C-section is like any major surgery—longer recovery time. In addition, it interferes with initiation of breastfeeding for the baby with potential implications on future pregnancies as well. On the other hand, women who have normal vaginal deliveries, face a higher risk of blood loss and injuries to the child.
Different sets of risks are involved in both the deliveries however, gynecologists still advice that C-sections be opted for only when there is a medical complications during the course of delivery. Normal deliveries are recommended as one, it is of course the ‘natural’ way and two, the non-interventional procedure ensures limited hospital stay and reduced chances of infection.
Gynecologist, Dr. Lakshmi Kiran presses on the need of first-time mothers to go through the process of labor pain and contractions during childbirth. She says a normal labor may range from 8-20 hours. However, during this period if there are medical conditions like the baby getting stuck in the upper area of the womb, the head not coming down, the weight of the baby being more than normal and difficulty in ejection, C-section becomes necessary. Also, for women with existing medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure a C-section is recommended.
But, these days, doctors are finding that most women owing to their sedentary lifestyle are not able to bear with more than four contractions and hence families opt for a C-section. Thus, the medical intervention is being applied, even when simple lifestyle adjustments could have prevented them.
Going by a senior gynecologist’s experience, family’s wish for a C-section is the major factor for their increased rate. She says, “We can’t reject the family’s demand. The complications or risks are not considered by the family.” Given this pressure, after few hours of labor pain, doctors now consider a C-section as it is a much shorter procedure while a normal delivery may take up 8 to 10 hours.”
The fear of pain often deters the determination of would-be-mothers and their families to opt for natural deliveries; however, medical advancements like epidural analgesia can help in a painless birthing experience and encourage more natural deliveries.
The trend shows an increase in caesarean section, touching about 10% of all births, something even WHO has cautioned against. The ease of choosing the day and time of delivery contributes to this. Many couples are now opting for Sundays or other holidays to welcome the baby. Childbirth during a good muhurtham is another request. While, family sentiments cannot be ignored doctors make it clear that a C-section can have complications. The relatives and patients are counselled about the same.
While the outcomes in C-section have been better, experts state that the risk factors like increased risk of infection, pain and discomfort in abdomen due to surgical scars, longer healing time etc. can't be negated and it is important for families to consider them.
Dr.JYOTSNA VISHNUBHOTLA PHANI
Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon M.D Obstetrics & Gynecology
Rainbow Children’s Hospital & BirthRigh, Banjara Hills.
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