If your pregnancy is progressing normally, and you are still considering a cesarean, we hope you keep in mind how it could impact your birthing experience. We often come across women who are not well informed about their birthing choices and also about the steps they should take as soon as they find out they are pregnant. Instead of following the recommended tips, 90% of them end up making 5 common mistakes in their early pregnancy, and harming their chances of what could otherwise be a smooth and uncomplicated normal delivery.
With the correct facts and sound medical opinion, you will not only be better informed but also confident about the decisions to take. We hope that by understanding these 3 things before you plan a cesarean, you will have the delivery you had hoped for.
- A Cesarean is a Major Surgery
The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women plan for vaginal birth unless there is a medical reason for a cesarean. This is because a cesarean, like any other surgery, comes with its benefits and risks. For the mother, C- sections carry risks of bladder injuries, bowel injuries and serious complications in future pregnancies.
“Women who undergo a cesarean need an extra two to four weeks to recover as compared to a normal delivery” adds Dr. Anita Sabherwal, consultant obstetrician-gynecologist at Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research.
- Risks for your baby
There is increased risk of respiratory distress and nursery admission post-delivery, and a higher likelihood of diabetes, obesity and allergies in later life. Your baby may also miss out on the benefits of immediate skin-to-skin contact with the mother and early initiation of breastfeeding.
- Painful Recovery Period
A fear of labour pains shouldn’t motivate you to plan a cesarean when one is not needed. “With good antenatal preparation that includes labour exercises and breathing techniques, and with support from nurses and a birth partner in the labour room, most women are surprised at how well they cope with pain. And we also have options for medical pain relief, including epidural analgesia for those who need it” says Dr Anita. While you might avoid pain during the C-section, you may have to take painkillers to manage the pain after the surgery.
You may also face difficulties in moving around, eating regular food and caring for your newborn in the period after delivery.
Cesareans are required in some circumstances
“Women should remember that in some cases -such as breech baby, placenta previa, or 2 prior cesarean sections – a pre-labour cesarean may become the safest option, and they should always prioritise safety first” says Dr. Anita.
This article has been written with Dr. Anita Sabherwal Anand, Consultant, Obstetrician-Gynecologist at Sitaram Bhartia Hospital in South Delhi. Dr. Anita is a highly qualified gynecologist with 20+ years of experience who is trusted by low-risk and high-risk mothers alike for her guidance on having a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Come in for a consultation with Dr. Anita at our hospital located in South Delhi. Please call on +91 9871001458 to schedule a consultation.
At Sitaram Bhartia, we strive to facilitate normal deliveries and help every woman have a positive birth experience. In 2016, we achieved an 88% normal delivery rate for first-birth low-risk mothers.
