At Mom2B® we understand that every woman is different. While some women prefer breastfeeding their infants, others prefer to give them formula, having a natural birth, whilst others prefer a c-section or water birth, or even surrogacy. During your pregnancy journey, there will come a time when you need to decide what type of birth method you would like to use to bring your little one into this world. While other people might think that this is a fairly easy decision, many mothers struggle with it. It is important that you consult with your doctor and choose the method you believe will best suit you and will be safe for your baby. We at Mom2B® have listed a few popular birth methods we believe all expectant moms should read about, so without further ado, let’s dive right in:
Natural Birth Method
Natural childbirth is vaginal labour and delivery with limited to no medical intervention; it can involve a variety of choices, from the doctor you choose to the pain relief you use1. If you are opting for natural childbirth, there are many benefits associated with natural birth giving. According to MedicineNet2 “infants born vaginally tend to have fewer respiratory problems. Secondly, vaginal delivery includes a quicker recovery for the mother and avoidance of abdominal surgery and the associated risks that come with a c-section. Lastly, vaginal childbirth has a lower rate of infection and a shorter hospital stay.” However, natural childbirth does come with its disadvantages. MedicineNet3 states that “one of the disadvantages of vaginal birth may include tearing of the perineum.”
Water Birth Method
In the last years, this particular method of childbirth has become very popular. According to MedicineNet4, “a water birth means the mother goes through some or all of the stages of childbirth in a portable tub similar to a hot tub. The baby can be delivered underwater or the mother can get out of the water and deliver in a different position. Women chose water births because it can be more relaxing, and less painful to be in the water. Birthing tubs can be brought into the home for a home birth, and they are often found in birthing centers. Some hospitals may have birthing tubs as well.”
Now that we know what water birth is and what it involves, let us look at some of the pros and cons. According to MedicineNet, “a water birth is thought to be less painful and more relaxed for many women. It allows the woman to move into a variety of positions that can feel more natural and less painful. The partner can also get into the tub with the mother to support the delivery. The cons of water birth are that some critics say a water birth can increase the risk of infection, but as long as the water is fresh and clean, water births are not any riskier than non-water births5.”
Cesarean Section Method (C-section)
This is probably the most common method of child birthing after a natural birth. According to Tommy’s.org 6 “a cesarean section (c-section) is an operation where a doctor makes a cut in your abdomen (above your bikini line) and womb and lifts your baby out through it. Before making a decision on this particular childbirth method, remember to check with your doctor. If you know you will need a c-section before you go into labour, this is called a planned elective c-section. If you and your doctor decide at short notice that a c-section is the safest way to deliver your baby, it is called an emergency c-section.” The typical hospital stay is three days after a cesarean to ensure the incision is healing. Full recovery can take 8 weeks. One advantage of a c-section is that the delivery date can be planned ahead of time7.
Now that you have read about some of the options that are available to you when considering a birth method, which one would you say best suits you? Well whichever one you choose, remember to consult with your doctor first, so that a certified healthcare professional can further explain to you the benefits or risks involved with each procedure. For now, grab a Mom2B® Pregnancy Shake and give your baby the nutritional support he or she needs for optimal development. Our yummy shakes come in a variety of flavours and are quick and easy to prepare. Available at your nearest Dis-Chem and MediRite pharmacies.
*Sources
1whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/natural-birth
2medicinenet.com/7_childbirth_and_delivery_methods
3medicinenet.com/7_childbirth_and_delivery_methods
4medicinenet.com/7_childbirth_and_delivery_methods
5medicinenet.com/7_childbirth_and_delivery_methods
6tommys.org/pregnancy-information
7medicinenet.com/7_childbirth_and_delivery_methods
