How to Choose Childbirth Options

This may be a good time during the pregnancy for your spouse to give a thought to the manner of delivery she wishes to opt for. The options-natural, induced, or cesarean-all have their pros and cons.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. * Natural delivery:
   
   • This is the most common method of childbirth.
   • It does not involve an extended stay in a hospital.
   • The risks associated with major surgery are avoided.
   • This method of delivery makes breastfeeding easier.
   • The mother can actively participate in the childbirth.

2. * Induced delivery:
   
   • In this method, labor is artificially induced rather than spontaneous.
   • It avoids complications in post-term babies.
   • The pregnant mom, or her doctor, can decide when to go in for labor.
   • Studies report that women who have induced labor are less likely to develop chorioamnionitis, an infection of the placental membranes.

3. * Cesarean section:
   
   • In this method, delivery is surgically carried out through an incision made by the doctor in the abdomen and uterus.
   • It is required if labor does not progress normally.
   • It is also required in case of a complication in the pregnancy.
   • It is useful in cases where the fetus has been diagnosed with a developmental problem.
   • It is helpful in cases of women carrying twins, triplets, or multiples.
   • Cesarean is also used in the cases where the mom has herpes or similar infections, to prevent the baby from contracting these infections.

Resources

• Natural Labor Induction