Cesarean section: Things to consider

There are different ways to bring a baby into the world. When you are pregnant, people tend to ask how will you give birth and it seems that everyone has an opinion about it. This can raise doubts about the different types of delivery methods, whether it is a Cesarean section, natural birth, or another method.

Therefore, we prepared an article for you that will help you better understand some aspects of this topic.

What are the different childbirth delivery methods?

There are different types of delivery methods. Although we will focus primarily on the Cesarean section (C-section), we would also like to explain a little bit about the other methods.

Natural birth

In natural childbirth, the baby is expelled through the pelvis via the vaginal canal. In this, the mother expels the placenta on her own, generating oxytocin during the process.

Assisted vaginal delivery

There is also assisted vaginal delivery. In this, drugs are used to induce labor. If you need it, oxytocin can be given to you to facilitate labor, or specialists can even give you something to reduce the pain.

Cesarean section or abdominal delivery

Abdominal or Cesarean delivery is a surgery performed to remove the baby from the womb. In this medical procedure, spinal-epidural anesthesia is administered and an abdominal incision is made above the pelvis.

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There is also the possibility that doctors will have to give you general anesthesia, but this is usually reserved for emergencies.

Now that you know the different types of childbirth delivery methods, we will focus on Cesarean section and its particular characteristics.

When is a Cesarean section recommended?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, in most cases, this surgery is performed for the following reasons:

• The mother has previously had a baby by C-section.
• Your doctor considers that natural birth can put the baby at risk.
• The baby’s heartbeat slows down or becomes irregular.

In all these cases, a Cesarean section is a very valuable resource to ensure your well-being and that of the baby. However, it is not only for emergencies. If you decide so and your doctor agrees with it, you can decide to schedule it. This surgery is a very safe process that takes care of you and your baby, regardless of whether it is done by emergency or electively.

Your doctor will safeguard your safety and that of your baby at all times. Also, always remember to listen to the advice they give you and trust their diagnosis. If you have any concerns, it is important to discuss them together.

What are the implications of a Cesarean section?

If you want to schedule a Cesarean delivery it is important to take into account that, although the process of labor is, in principle, much shorter than in a vaginal delivery, the recovery time tends to be longer.

In a vaginal delivery, you may be able to walk two hours after giving birth. On the contrary, after the Cesarean section, you will need approximately two weeks of recovery, in which you must follow the medical indications.

Sometimes, babies born with this method take a little longer to breathe normally, but the pediatrician on duty or the neonatologist will take care of your baby. This is normal, so don’t panic if it happens. Remember that professionals will be by your side to help you and your child.

As this is a major surgery, you may feel some pain during your recovery, but it shouldn’t be a cause for concern. The most important thing is to consult any irregularity with your doctor.

At the end of the day, a C-section is a surgery that is very well studied and that you should not fear. Follow the advice of your gynecologist and you will not have any problems.

Now that you know everything about the cesarean section and other birthing methods, download the Kinedu app for free and get prepared for your child’s arrival with +2,200 activities and articles created by specialists in baby development.