C Section Vs Normal Delivery

Bringing a child into the world is a deeply personal and life-changing event. One of the most important decisions expecting parents face is choosing the safest delivery method, normal delivery or C-section. While vaginal birth has been the natural route for centuries, C-section births now account for 21.5% of deliveries in India (The Lancet), and the numbers are rising globally.

Each method comes with its benefits and risks, and the right choice depends on multiple factors, such as your health, your baby’s condition, pregnancy complications, and medical advice. Read on to know which is safer – normal delivery or C section and learn about their benefits and possible risks.

What is Normal Birth?

When a woman gives birth through her vagina, it is known as a vaginal or normal delivery. It is the most common way to give birth. During a normal birth, your uterus contracts, causing your cervix to thin and open, which opens the vagina (also called the birth canal) for your baby to exit. Because normal births are typically the safest for both the fetus and the expecting mother, healthcare providers frequently recommend them. The most appropriate period for a normal birth is between weeks 37 and 42 of pregnancy. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of normal delivery:

Pros of Normal Birth

• Compared to a C-section, a vaginal birth may result in a shorter recovery time. The average length of hospital stay after a normal delivery is 24 to 48 days, including shorter recovery times and hospital stays.
• Natural birth has several benefits for the baby, including exposure to beneficial bacteria. 
• When newborns are born through normal delivery, their muscles are better able to drain out the fluid in their lungs, reducing respiratory problems.

Cons of Normal Birth

• Normal birth can be painful, causing tears and other problems. Stitches may be necessary for severe straining and tearing. 
• Normal birth may lead to a prolonged labor process. The lengthy labor and vaginal delivery process can be physically exhausting. 
• The region between the vagina and the anus, known as the perineum, may also experience persistent pain after a vaginal or normal birth.

What is a C-section?

A C-section, sometimes referred to as a cesarean section or cesarean delivery, is a surgical procedure in which your abdomen and uterus are cut open to deliver your baby. They are performed when normal delivery is risky, impractical, or poses a risk to your health or the health of your unborn child. A caesarean section might be planned (elective) if there are indications that a vaginal birth is dangerous, or unplanned (emergency) if there are complications during labor. 

Pros of C-section Birth

• For women with health problems or difficulties, preparing for C-sections may be beneficial. Compared to vaginal births, this also makes it more predictable and convenient.
• C-sections may lower the baby's risk of developing shoulder dystocia and other delivery complications.
• In an emergency, a C-section can be required to protect the mother or baby. If the baby is in danger, C-sections can save lives. 
• A woman may choose to undergo a C-section if she is particularly anxious about giving birth normally, which could have an impact on her delivery experience.
• C-sections may reduce the pain associated with pelvic organ prolapse and urine incontinence.

Cons of C-section Birth

• As with surgical operations, C-sections have a chance of infection, bleeding, and chronic pain.
• Compared to vaginal births, C-sections may cause a longer recovery period. Additionally, it requires longer hospital stays. 
• In addition to other potential risks, including adhesions or future reproductive issues, C-sections may raise the baby's risk of respiratory problems. 
• There is a small possibility that a baby could be injured during surgery if the scalpel nicked them.

How Long Is The Recovery Time For a Normal Birth Vs a C-section?

Individuals experience labour, delivery, and postpartum differently, which makes recovery time difficult to anticipate. The length of labor and any difficulties that happened during labor or delivery, together with the person's medical history and postpartum assistance, will all affect the duration of postpartum healing. Let’s look at the recovery time after C section vs normal delivery:

Recovery after Normal Birth 

Most individuals stay in the hospital for 24 to 48 hours after a normal birth, but it takes much longer to recover fully. Postpartum symptoms include hormonal changes, cramps, swelling, pain, constipation, and vaginal bleeding (lochia). If you had an episiotomy or suffered from serious vaginal or perineal injuries, you will likely also need to deal with stitches.

After a normal birth, people should relax for a few weeks at least. Hormonal and body changes usually take at least six weeks to return to some form of normalcy, but postpartum recovery sometimes takes longer.

Recovery after C-section Birth 

A C-section will cause many of the same side effects as a normal birth, including pain and vaginal bleeding. During the first few days, you could feel a little nauseous and weak; sneezing, coughing, and laughing may cause pain. Within a few hours after the surgery, you will typically be advised to get up and begin moving around, even for a short period of time. Walking can improve circulation, aid with digestion, and prevent blood clots in your legs.

You should be able to return home within 2 to 4 days. Depending on the type of incision you have, your staples may be taken out before you leave for home, and your stitches will dissolve on their own. After a month, your incision will be healed, and you will experience far less discomfort, even if the pain lasts for a while. But, after a C-section, the entire postpartum recovery time lasts for at least six weeks, and sometimes for a few longer.

What Complications Can Occur after C-Section vs. Normal Birth?

Both normal and C-section births can result in several types of complications. Here are the possible risks of C section vs natural birth:

Complications from a Normal Birth 

The pregnant woman may need an episiotomy, which is an incision made to expand the vaginal opening, or she may endure perineal tears during a vaginal delivery. These issues can be extremely painful and frequently require stitches. Retained placenta, which occurs when the placenta does not separate from the uterine wall on its own, and postpartum hemorrhage are further risks associated with normal birth. While they do not usually happen in the first few days after giving birth, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic floor dysfunction can still happen after a normal birth.

Potential complications from a C-section delivery

A C-section may result in blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism, infections of the uterine lining and incision, excessive bleeding or hemorrhage, damage to the bladder or bowel during surgery, and adverse anesthetic reactions. People who have had previous C-sections are also at risk of uterine rupture (when the C-section incision rips open), which can result in life-threatening hemorrhage. 

Also Read: Tips to lose weight after pregnancy

What Factors Influence Choosing C-Section or Normal Delivery?

The decision to choose between normal birth and a Cesarean section (C-section) is affected by a number of factors, including medical factors, individual preferences, etc. Let’s learn about each factors of C section vs vaginal birth to know what to choose:

Medical Reasons for Choosing C-section or Vaginal Birth

Medical conditions frequently determine the safest delivery method. Some important factors include:

• Maternal Pre-Existing Conditions: A C-section can be safer for both mother and child if there are conditions like herpes or heart disease.
• Position Of the Baby: A C-section can be required if the baby is breech or transverse.
• Complications During Delivery: If labour fails to progress or the baby is in pain, a C-section may be necessary.
• Previous C-Sections: Although vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is possible with proper supervision, a history of C-sections frequently affects the decision.

Personal Preferences and Birth Plans

Choosing the type of delivery is primarily an individual choice. Important factors to consider are:

• Birth Plan: Many women have a birth plan that details their delivery options, which may include opting for a C-section if it is not medically necessary.
• Fear of Pain: Some women may choose a C-section due to fear of the pain associated with normal childbirth.
• Planning and Control: Some individuals want the peace of mind of a planned C-section.

Get Personalized Guidance to Select the Right Delivery Method!

Normal birth is generally advised over cesarean section. However, there are situations in which a cesarean section might be the most secure method of childbirth. For a number of personal reasons, people may also decide to have a C-section. It is normal to feel sad or anxious about having a C-section if you wanted a normal birth, but keep in mind that it is a life-saving procedure, and your health and your baby's health come first.

Therefore, considering normal delivery vs cesarean section pros and cons based on you and your baby’s safety is most important. Reach out to our team of obstetricians at Apollo Spectra, who have years of experience and are dedicated to giving women the greatest possible prenatal and birth experience with as few or no issues as possible.