Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Normal Delivery Vs Caesarean - Advantages & Disadvantages
Pregnant and looking forward to the big day? All to-be-parents are faced with the big question of whether to go with the long followed traditional method of childbirth or to go for the recently becoming popular Cesarean or C-section birth.
Vaginal Birth Vs C-Section Delivery
Mothers have been giving birth ever since the beginning of time when there were no ultrasound machines or even hospitals. It is now with the advancements in technology that mothers have an option of choosing another way of childbirth and avoiding going into a long and painful labour. A comparison of C-section vs normal delivery gives parents important insights into their options for childbirth.
Vaginal Birth
The natural way of delivery or vaginal birth is always recommended. Having a baby through this traditional way is said to have several health benefits both for the mother and the child. Here are some points you can consider before making your choice:
1. Pros of Vaginal Delivery
Being the natural way it is a preferred choice and has a number of plus points you should consider for both the mother and the baby.
For Mother
The mother gets to actively participate in the process, giving her a more positive and empowering experience.
The skin to skin contact during the process ensures better bonding between the baby and the mother
The recovery is much faster, with mothers usually being able to walk without any pain the same day, as compared to needing at least a day's rest after an invasive method. In a week’s time the mother is generally fully recovered from a vaginal birth.
There is no scarring or need to take care of stitches. Besides, the visits to the hospital are also fewer.
Opting for delivering naturally you can sometimes also get to choose to deliver at home rather than the hospital. This must only be thought of after proper consultation with your doctor.
For Baby
When opting for a vaginal delivery, the baby is also ready to come out of the womb.
During the process of being pushed out from the vagina, the baby's lungs expel the amniotic fluids filled in them, allowing normal breathing and less respiratory problems.
Babies born through vaginal delivery undergo fewer complications. There are less instances of allergies and they also begin breastfeeding earlier.
The baby inhales the good bacteria on coming out of the womb which helps in boosting the immune system.
2. Cons of Vaginal Delivery
While there are all the above benefits, there still remain a few risks while opting for vaginal delivery that should be known:
For Mother
With natural delivery, the time of childbirth remains uncertain and there is no way to schedule it. Delivery is entirely dependent on the mother's body.
Going into labour accompanies pain and stress. There is no fixed duration of labour either. It can be short or even last for a few hours. However, there are a few drugs which may help with labour, and are given as per the doctor's decision.
Sometimes there are complications which can lead to a drop in the baby's heart rate. In such situations, the mother maybe given anaesthesia and taken for emergency C-section.
Post vaginal delivery, there maybe a few sexual problems faced by the mother due to injuries sustained during delivery.
For Baby
Sometimes when the baby is large then one might need assistance while delivery with suction cups or forceps.
There are very few instances of the baby suffering from any sort of injury while passing through the vagina.
Caesarean Section
Caesarean or C-section delivery is the surgical method for child birth. A small incision is made in the abdominal region which penetrates the uterus to take the baby out. C-sections can be planned after consulting with the doctor, and depend on the mother's health. When the mother has health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or infections like HIV, then a C-section is the preferred choice of childbirth. Also if there are some problems during natural delivery like the baby not getting oxygen or labour taking too long, then an emergency C-section is done.
1. Pros of C-section
Caesarean has become a popular choice as well since it has quite a few benefits. These are the pros for C-section childbirth:
For Mother
When it is a planned procedure, it gives the parents the advantage of planning the birth.
The mother can avoid long hours of labour by opting for a C-section. This lets the mother avoid all the stress and labour pain.
The mother is not expected to face any sexual problems post a C-section birth.
For Baby
The baby is less likely to be affected by any infections being carried by the mother.
There are fewer chances of the baby being injured during birth.
2. Cons of C-section
Besides the benefits listed above, there are few cons that should also be evaluated:
For Mother
Like any other major surgery, C-section also carries a few risks.
The use of anaesthesia adds to the risk of complications.
There is also greater blood loss.
Also there are risks of infection. Hence the care of the wound needs to be ensured to facilitate the healing process. This also means more visits to the hospital for routine check-ups.
The recovery period is longer compared to natural child birth.
The breastfeeding process might get delayed too. This can have an effect on the bonding between the mother and the baby.
C-sections have a higher mortality rates for both babies and mother. Being put under anaesthesia increases these risks.
For Baby
Since it is not a natural birth, but rather something decided by the surgeon and the parents, the baby may not be prepared to come out of the mother's womb.
In some cases the baby faces respiratory problems after being born.
Recommended Ways to Avoid a Caesarean Birth
Choose your health care provider carefully. It helps to know the statistics of the number of C-sections by the doctor, his views on both vaginal and C-section childbirth and also the mortality rates, and these details can help with making the choice.
Hiring doula who are professionals on pregnancy and childbirth can help with additional assistance during your pregnancy and also give you guidance to induce labour with fewer complications.
Going for birthing classes which teach breathing exercises and give pointers on how to get through labour in a natural manner without any medication is a good idea.
Having a healthy balanced diet and regular exercising increases you chances of being prepared for a vaginal birth.
Both these ways of childbirth have their pros and cons, and before making the choice, parents should consider all the factors and consult with their health care provider. Although natural birth is a less invasive and traditional way, going into labour can be a painful and stressful process. Also even after opting for vaginal delivery, there are chances of things not going as per plan and the doctor may have to perform an emergency C-section. Natural delivery and C-section are both techniques which have been around for a while and are well tired and tested. Eventually, the final decision is for the parents to make after evaluating all the aspects. Read more
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Banana Pineapple Mocktail
Out of the numerous ways to prepare a mocktail, make yourself a banana and pineapple one and enjoy your trip of the tropics. This good-for-you mocktail has the delicate balance of sweet yet tangy taste from both the fruits. So to say, this indulgent mocktail is a lovely and healthy summer treat.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
2 People
5-10 Minutes
10-15 Minutes
Ingredients
200 g pineapple pieces
100 g banana, chopped
50 g pineapple, chopped
2 tbsp honey
30 g ice cubes
2 tbsp pineapple juice, concentrated
Method
Step 1
In a blending jar, add pineapple pieces, chopped banana and honey. Blend till it becomes a smooth pulp.
Step 2
Transfer the pulp to a container and in the same blender jar, blend ice cubes and pineapple pieces.
Step 3
In a mocktail glass, transfer the ice cubes from the blender followed by the pulp made in step 1.
Step 4
Give it a nice stir with the help of a stirrer.
Step 5
Drizzle some honey and garnish it with a pineapple wedge and banana pieces.
Step 6
Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Calories
499 Kcal
Proteins
0.8 gm
Total Fat
0.2 gm
Total Carbohydrates
126.6 gm
Cholesterol
0 mg
Sodium
55 mg
Potassium
238 mg
Tip -You can replace banana with berries of your choice. Read more
Suggested for you
Problems in Pregnancy that No One Will Tell You About
When I was pregnant, it was all about the excitement and joy for the new baby amongst the family members. I did not have any major health issues as such, but there were a few problems which seemed so minor, yet they brought the most discomfort.
Listed below are a few problems that I had experienced and also how I dealt with them.
1. Blocked Nose/Runny Nose
This was a major problem for me. I had a blocked nose alternating with a runny one throughout the nine months. I used to literally sit up in the nights. Blame those pregnancy hormones for this sleep altering condition!
How I Dealt with it
I used steam inhalation to relieve the block three to four times a day. Normal saline nasal sprays were also helpful. I also avoided blowing my nose too hard as it sometimes leads to bleeding.
Point to Remember: If all these don't work for you, please consult your doctor for medications.
2. Heartburn/Indigestion
I had this problem from the very early months of pregnancy. My elders used to tell me that the baby is growing hair, that's why you have heartburn. I chose NOT to reply to them.
How I Dealt with it
I asked my doctor. He explained that acidity is common in the earlier months due to the change in the hormonal levels. And indigestion occurs in the later months due to the growing baby pushing up the stomach.
He prescribed antacids and advised to take small meals at frequent intervals and avoid fatty/spicy foods.
3. Leg cramps/ Backache
These occurred after the second trimester. Leg cramps were really horrible. And backache due to the increasing weight; both mine and the baby's.
How I Dealt with it
I used to lie down on a flat mattress and do some stretching exercises of the leg. I also used to apply hot water bags to ease the pain and cramps.
If you have help at home, then you can ask someone to massage your legs as well. Nothing more relaxing than that!
4. Piles
Nothing more irritating and embarrassing than this! It occurs because of the increasing pressure of the growing baby on the veins of the rectum. As a result, they become dilated, swollen and inflamed. And if you have constipation, the straining will cause these veins to bleed.
How I Dealt with it
I asked my doctor.
He suggested the following tips to prevent piles or if you already have it; to minimise the discomfort:
Have a high fibre diet with fresh fruits and veggies. Avoid processed foods.
Drink lots of water.
Do some kegel exercises.
Do not stand for a long time. Keep moving. Standing increases the pressure.
Avoid straining in the toilet.
If none of these work, then stool softeners can be prescribed.
Point to Remember: Piles in pregnancy are temporary. They go away once the baby is out. So not to worry.
Hope this article would be of some help to all the expecting mothers out there! Happy pregnancy and happy parenting!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
Read more
Anu Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
9 hours ago
Q. hi iam 13th week pregnant my mind is completely in pressure stress and I cried alott does this affect my baby or baby growth
Anu Sharma
Mom of a 1 yr old boy
8 hours ago
A. yes. mood swings are normal
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 8 m old child
9 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts 300 vochure
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
9 hours ago
A. If you have any question concerning the parenting platform then please feel free to post your question once I know what are you willing to ask with all the necessary details associated it will be easier for me to give you appropriate help and response onto your question
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
9 hours ago
Q. My daughter (9months old) is not at all willing to drink aptamil and breast milk I am getting only 100 ml per day now. I have tried adding jaggery powder in aptamil but still she is not at all willing to drink.I tried to feed her with aptamil midnight when she was in deep sleep but still she woke up and started crying. I am not able to find any solution for this.Its been 2 days that I have started trying aptamil.So I will continue to try for another week and if she still doesn't drink can you suggest what can be done
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
9 hours ago
A. For yourself I would recommend you Shatavari powder three times in the day to increase your lactation other than that since your child is six months complete you can give Amul Taaza milk to your child that is easier for the childhood digest and flavour is also good even if you want you can add some dry fruit powder saffron or turmeric for flavour change that’s also a good option to try these alternative
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 5 m old child
7 hours ago
Q. after delivey back pain is normal???
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. If there is back pain you have to maintain a proper posture take a healthy diet and also do some regular exercise specially back extension exercises to strengthen muscles also you can take calcium and iron supplements suggested by yohur doctor imf still you are having weakness and other symptoms it needs a proper assessment
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. Its been 7 days my 8 month old hasn’t pooped. He looks good not at all cranky. Eating normally. What to do?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Sometimes baby does not poop for 7-10 days. Please massage baby stomach clockwise and anti-clockwise. You can also apply hing water on baby stomach. Also do some cycling leg exercises of the baby to relieve from constipation and gas. Please make the baby burp after every feed. Mother should chew saunf and ajwain after every meal.
Thanks and take care
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
3 hours ago
Q. how do i claim the vochure
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
22 mins ago
A. If you have any question concerning the parenting platform then please feel free to post your question there is a big panel of mothers and doctors always available to help you with your query that you have but please give us all the details also when you post your question
Check out this new Memory
Kiran Patel
Mom of a 5 m old boy
New Milestone
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Ahaan
Mom of a 9 m old boy
New Memory
#grandphoto
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Neha
Mom of a 11 m old girl
New Memory
#grandphoto
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Uma
Mom of a 1 yr old boy
New Memory
#grandphoto
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Kuldeep kaur
Guardian of a 8 m old girl
New Memory
#grandphoto
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive