Childbirth (Vaginal Delivery)

Vaginal delivery is often considered the most natural and preferred method of childbirth for many women. It not only allows for a quicker recovery but also offers several health benefits for both the mother and baby. 

The key benefits of a vaginal delivery include:

• Faster recovery — mothers who deliver vaginally typically experience shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to normal activities compared to C-sections.
• Lower risk of surgical complications — without the need for major surgery, there’s a reduced risk of infections, excessive bleeding, or complications from anaesthesia.
• Healthier for the baby — the process of passing through the birth canal helps to clear fluid from the baby’s lungs, promoting healthier breathing after birth.
• Stronger immune system for the baby — during vaginal delivery, the baby is exposed to beneficial bacteria in the birth canal, which can help build their immune system.
• Less respiratory issues for baby — babies born vaginally are less likely to suffer from respiratory issues compared to those born via C-section.
• Immediate skin-to-skin contact — mothers who deliver vaginally are more likely to engage in immediate skin-to-skin contact with their newborn, which helps foster early bonding and initiate breastfeeding.

Personalised medical care will help ensure that your delivery is as smooth and beneficial as possible.

While vaginal delivery is generally safe and is the preferred method of childbirth for many women, like any medical process, it carries its own risks. Understanding these potential risks can help you prepare for the delivery and make informed decisions about your care.

• Perineal tears — tearing in the tissue between the vagina and anus is common, especially in first-time mothers, and may require stitches.
• Prolonged labour — labour may take longer than expected, leading to physical exhaustion and increasing the risk of complications for both mother and baby.
• Incontinence — some women may experience temporary or long-term bladder or bowel incontinence due to the strain on pelvic muscles during childbirth.
• Postpartum haemorrhage — excessive bleeding after childbirth can occur, especially if the uterus doesn’t contract properly after the baby is born.
• Uterine prolapse — in rare cases, the uterus may slip into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles after delivery.
• Infection — although rare, there is a risk of infection during or after vaginal delivery, particularly if there is tearing or an episiotomy involved.
• Emotional stress — for some women, the intensity of labour or complications during delivery can lead to emotional or psychological stress in the postpartum period.

Childbirth is a normal human process, and medical support is provided to ensure you and your baby’s safety. Most births occur without complications — but it is important to find a qualified doctor you can trust and who ensures all necessary precautions are taken to minimise these risks.

Managing pain during vaginal delivery is an important part of the birthing process, and understanding the options available can help you choose the best approach for your comfort.

• Breathing and relaxation techniques — focused breathing and relaxation exercises help you stay calm and manage the intensity of contractions by promoting oxygen flow and mental focus.
• Changing positions — moving and adjusting your position during labour, such as squatting, kneeling, or sitting, can ease pain and encourage the baby’s movement through the birth canal.
• Massage and touch therapy — gentle massages, especially on the lower back, can provide relief from contraction pain and reduce tension.
• Warm water therapy — a warm bath or using a birthing pool can help relax muscles, reduce pain, and provide a soothing environment during labour.
• Epidural — a common medical option where anaesthesia is injected into the lower back to numb pain from the waist down while still allowing you to remain awake and active during delivery.
• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) — inhaled through a mask, this gas helps take the edge off contractions and is a milder form of pain relief with minimal side effects.
• Medications — intravenous pain medications or injections may be used to reduce pain during labour without fully numbing the body, allowing you to stay more mobile than with an epidural.
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine — this device delivers mild electrical pulses to the back to block pain signals and increase endorphin production during contractions.

Recovery after a vaginal delivery varies for each individual, but generally, most women begin to feel better within six to eight weeks — both emotionally and physically. The first few days after delivery are often focused on physical healing, such as managing perineal soreness, any stitches, or swelling. Within the first two weeks, many women find that pain and discomfort start to ease, which allows them to gradually return to light activities. However, complete recovery of pelvic floor muscles and energy levels may take several months. 

Check-ups will be scheduled with your doctor to monitor your recovery process.

There are several medical and personal circumstances where a C-section, or cesarean section, may be a safer or necessary option instead of a vaginal delivery. Here are some common conditions that may lead to a planned or emergency C-section:

• Baby’s position — if the baby is in a breech or transverse position and cannot be safely turned.
• Foetal distress — signs that the baby is in distress, such as an abnormal heart rate.
• Placenta Previa — when the placenta is covering the cervix, blocking the baby’s exit.
• Previous C-Section — in some cases, women with a prior C-section may be recommended for a repeat C-section.
• Multiple pregnancies — carrying twins, triplets, or more may make a C-section safer.
• Prolonged labour — labour that is not progressing or has stalled for too long.
• Large Baby (Macrosomia) — when the baby is too large to safely pass through the birth canal.
• Maternal health conditions — health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or infections that could make vaginal delivery risky.

If you’re unsure about whether a C-section or vaginal delivery is best for your pregnancy, your gynaecologist can provide professional advice and support.