Answer:
It is normal to be apprehensive about childbirth, whether by vaginal or C-section
delivery, especially if you are a first-time mom. A vaginal birth will be supported
by nurses and your midwife or your physician. Pain relief is available through breathing
techniques, position changes and also medications, including epidural anesthesia -
if appropriate. Many times a labor support person can be very valuable. This can be
a partner, friend or relative, or a professional such as a doula. Consider taking
classes at your local hospital to prepare you for the experience of labor and delivery.
Remember that labor progresses and you get closer and closer to the magical moment of your child's birth. Once the baby is born, most, if not all, of the discomfort disappears. Also remember that women have been delivering babies throughout all of human experience.
C-section deliveries are very safe, when needed. Most physicians will agree that C-section births should be performed only when medically necessary. Requested C-section births are very rare, and are usually preceded by extensive discussions with the obstetrician to see if it would be an appropriate decision. C-sections can be a safer option for women who have high-risk pregnancies, have placenta problems, have a child in the breech position, or who have other medical complications in the mother or baby. Even in cases where a planned C-section seems best (for example when the placenta overlays the cervix), there is the chance of delivering the baby before he or she is fully ready to be born.
Although being afraid of childbirth is natural and understandable, it is important to know that a C-section can be painful and have many risks. Overall, vaginal birth requires less recovery time, has fewer risks, and a shorter hospital stay. This makes it the ideal choice for a healthy pregnancy.
Remember that labor progresses and you get closer and closer to the magical moment of your child's birth. Once the baby is born, most, if not all, of the discomfort disappears. Also remember that women have been delivering babies throughout all of human experience.
C-section deliveries are very safe, when needed. Most physicians will agree that C-section births should be performed only when medically necessary. Requested C-section births are very rare, and are usually preceded by extensive discussions with the obstetrician to see if it would be an appropriate decision. C-sections can be a safer option for women who have high-risk pregnancies, have placenta problems, have a child in the breech position, or who have other medical complications in the mother or baby. Even in cases where a planned C-section seems best (for example when the placenta overlays the cervix), there is the chance of delivering the baby before he or she is fully ready to be born.
Although being afraid of childbirth is natural and understandable, it is important to know that a C-section can be painful and have many risks. Overall, vaginal birth requires less recovery time, has fewer risks, and a shorter hospital stay. This makes it the ideal choice for a healthy pregnancy.