Vaginal birth vs. C-Section: Pros & cons

Normal delivery is often considered the first choice and the safer option because it’s a natural process. First time mothers often prefer normal delivery, if they want to have more babies in the future. Women who undergo expected delivery avoid having many major surgical risks, such as scarring, severe bleeding, infection, and post-pregnancy pain. The recovery time and hospital stays are shorter compared to cesarean. Normal delivery also benefits your baby as the baby ingests some protective bacteria while traveling through the birth canal which boosts their immune system. 

There are several reasons why normal delivery is preferred, particularly for first-time mothers who may want to have more children in the future.

1. Natural Process: Normal delivery is considered a natural process because it allows the body to go through the natural mechanisms of labor and childbirth. It is the way women's bodies are designed to give birth.

2. Avoidance of Surgical Risks: Vaginal delivery avoids the risks associated with major surgery, such as cesarean section. These risks include scarring, severe bleeding, infection, and post-surgical pain. By avoiding surgery, women can reduce the potential complications that may arise from an invasive procedure.

3. Shorter Recovery Time: After a normal delivery, the recovery time is generally shorter compared to a cesarean section. Women who have a vaginal delivery typically experience less pain and discomfort in the postpartum period, allowing them to return to their regular activities sooner.

4. Reduced Hospital Stay: In most cases, women who have a normal delivery can expect a shorter hospital stay compared to those who undergo a cesarean section. This allows mothers and babies to return home and establish a routine more quickly.

5. Benefits for the Baby: The process of passing through the birth canal during a vaginal delivery exposes the baby to certain bacteria present in the mother's birth canal. These bacteria can help colonize the baby's gut and boost their immune system, potentially providing them with some protection against infections and diseases early in life.