The Different Ways Of Giving Birth – What Are Your Options?

No two births are the same. Medical technology has made childbirth easier and safer for both moms and babies. Although it’s possible to have a smooth and perfectly executed delivery, there might be some hiccups along the way that might require specific delivery methods. Yet, navigating through all these methods and decoding medical jargon can be quite daunting. That’s why we bring you a practical guide on the birth methods available today.

Vaginal birth

In a vaginal delivery, the baby comes out of the birth canal. This is the most common method of giving birth and it’s the body’s “natural way”. Vaginal birth has three stages: labor, pushing and delivering the baby, and delivering the placenta. For first-time moms, labor usually takes around 12 to 18 hours and, in some cases, even longer. Fortunately, labor can be shorter for mammas who have given birth before. It all depends on several factors like the size and position of the baby and the progress of cervical dilation.

Although most births happen safely, there might be complications, including bleeding, tear of tissue around the vagina, and injury of the baby while passing through the birth canal. When the mother needs assistance to deliver the baby, doctors might use complementary methods to facilitate the process.

C-section

Even if you are determined to have a vaginal delivery, bear in mind that 1 in every 3 women ends up delivering via c-section. Your doctor might schedule a c-section procedure before or during delivery if vaginal delivery is not possible. This might happen due to a number of complications such as:

• If the cervix isn’t opening enough despite the contractions, also known as “stalled labor”.
• You are carrying twins or multiple babies.
• Your baby is in an abnormal position (breech or transverse).
• There’s a problem with the placenta — it might be covering the cervix.
• There’s a mechanical obstruction in the birth canal.
• You have a health concern or chronic condition.
• You had a c-section previously.

The process begins by receiving anesthesia. Then, an incision is made through the stomach and uterus to spot the baby. Delivery occurs through the incision and the whole process can take one or two hours. After the baby is born, your stay at the hospital will be longer (two to four days).

Induced Labor

Inducing labor is the process of stimulating uterine contractions before labor begins on its own. Several methods induce labor such as intravenous medications (oxytocin) or rupturing of the amniotic membrane (amniotomy). Inducing labor artificially is necessary when:

• Your baby is smaller than average.
• Your health is at risk (diabetes or high blood pressure, for example).
• You are a week or more past your due date.
• Your amniotic sac breaks, but uterine contractions do not start.

Vacuum Extraction

When delivering vaginally, your doctor may make delivery faster by using a vacuum. Basically, a small suction cup attached to a vacuum pump is placed on your baby’s head. With this instrument and your contractions, the baby is pulled down the birth canal. Is it safe? It is! Serious injuries after vacuum extraction are uncommon. But perhaps you might notice a bruise on your baby’s head. Rest assured as it will likely disappear within 2 days after delivery.

Episiotomy

An episiotomy is an incision in the perineum — the area between the vagina and the anus. It used to be a routine part of childbirth as it was believed to preserve muscular tissue and connective tissue of the pelvic floor. Nowadays, routine episiotomies aren’t recommended. But, sometimes, they are needed if:

• Your baby needs to be delivered quickly, is in pain, or has an abnormal heart rate pattern.
• You require an operative vaginal delivery using vacuum delivery.
• There’s a risk of anal tearing.

Something to bear in mind is that recovery from an episiotomy is often uncomfortable and extensive. Although stitches should heal within 1 month of your baby’s birth, you might feel discomfort and pain that will progressively become more bearable.

Amniotomy

An amniotomy is a rupture of the amniotic sac with an amnio hook. The amniotic sac contains fluid that surrounds and protects your baby. The artificial rupture of the amniotic sac releases chemicals that signal the body to start or speed up contractions. An amniotomy procedure might be necessary to:

• Speed up the delivery process if it has slowed for several hours.
• Place a monitoring device to check the baby’s head and heartbeat.
• Check amniotic fluid or fetal stool.

Forceps delivery

In this type of delivery, a doctor applies forceps (an instrument shaped like a pair of salad tongs) to your baby’s head to guide it out of the birth canal. Your provider might recommend forceps if:

• Vaginal labor isn’t progressing.
• Your baby’s heartbeat is abnormal.
• You have a medical condition such as heart disease or high blood pressure.

Which birth method is best for you?

As you can see, there are several methods for giving birth. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. In this case, before choosing an option, it’s important to do your research and discuss with your healthcare provider on the best course of action. It’s worth remembering that, even if your heart is set on a particular method, the procedure your doctor might use will vary depending on your health, particular circumstances, and the conditions that arise while you are in labor. Regardless of the method, you will still do something beautiful and remarkable — welcoming a new, little life into the world.

Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being during and after pregnancy. Research has proven that negative emotions, stress, and anxiety can affect your baby. Create the most peaceful and beautiful environment for your little one by listening to Beginning.com’s 9 Months audio sessions. During the Big Day, forget about your fears and focus on the beauty of childbirth with The Moment. And, heal fully and practice daily self-care after delivery by immersing yourself in our Post-pregnancy sessions. Remember that Beginning.com is here for you during every key step in your motherhood journey.