Natural delivery:
You should always remember that there in no “right” way to welcome your baby into this world and all types of childbirth is natural. Historically, natural birth is referred to vaginal labour and delivery, often with little medical intervention or pain relief used. Giving birth can come with a variety of choices and pain relief methods. You can for instance decide to give birth at home or at hospital, in the labour ward or birth centre which is led by midwives. You can opt for alternative delivering positions whether its leaning against something, on all fours or squatting. Many women feel more relaxed giving birth in a pool of warm water. Alternative drug-free methods including hydrotherapy, hypnosis, massage, relaxation techniques, mindfulness meditation and breathing exercises. Delivering baby immediately to your stomach for skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding instead of taking her away to be assessed and weighed first. Remember, if you want a “natural birth” you don’t have to go all natural to get the benefits. And know that there's nothing wrong with asking for pain relief if you need it. Every labour is different, and everyone experiences pain differently. No matter how you deliver, very soon you will be holding your bundle of joy.
Caesarean birth:
A caesarean section is an operation to deliver your baby through a cut that is made across your bikini line into your womb. A caesarean is a major operation and is only done if it is the safest option for you and your baby. 1 in four women in the UK deliver through a c section. The operation comes with a number of risks such as, blood clots and the recovery take time.
Caesareans are often done if your baby is in the breech position, or your baby is not getting enough oxygen or nutrients amongst other reasons. Some women may want to ask for a caesarean and if you feel worried about giving birth naturally you should discuss these feelings with your midwife or health care team. Your feelings are valid, and you should feel respected, comfortable and heard when discussing your options. Your health care team should listen to you and discuss the benefits and risks of the operation.
If after discussing all the risks and hearing about all the support on offer you still feel that a vaginal birth is not an acceptable option, you should be offered a planned caesarean. If your doctor is unwilling to perform the operation, they should refer you to a doctor who will. Most caesareans are carried out under spinal or epidural anaesthetic. This mean you'll be awake, but the lower part of your body is numbed so you will not feel any pain.
During the procedure a screen is placed across your body so you cannot see what's being done unless you would like to be told. A cut about 10 to 20cm long will usually be made across your lower tummy and womb so your baby can be delivered. you may feel some tugging and pulling during the procedure. You and your birth partner will be able to see and hold your baby as soon as they have been delivered if they're well.
The whole operation normally takes about 40 to 50 minutes. Occasionally, a general anaesthetic (where you're asleep) may be used, particularly if the baby needs to be delivered more quickly. Recovering from a caesarean usually takes longer than recovering from a vaginal delivery.
The average stay in hospital after a caesarean is around 3 or 4 days, compared with an average of 1 or 2 days for a vaginal birth. You may experience some discomfort in your tummy for the first few days. You'll be offered painkillers to help with this. When you go home, you'll need to take things easy at first. You may need to avoid some activities, such as driving, until you have had your postnatal check-up with the doctor at 6 weeks. The wound in your tummy will eventually form a scar. This may be obvious at first, but it should fade with time and will often be hidden in your pubic hair.