Types of Birth – Their advantages and disadvantages

Childbirth is one of the most important events in a woman’s life. Every mother has her own story regarding the birth of her child. No two births are the same. However, it should be noted that there are different types of birth, and one should not criticize or judge other mothers for their choices. What are the most common types of birth? What is a lotus birth?

Natural Birth

Natural birth, often referred to as a “normal” birth, is a type of birth known to all pregnant women. The baby enters the world through uterine contractions by passing through the woman’s birth canal. This is the most physiologically natural and safest form of childbirth, as long as there are no contraindications for a natural birth. An undeniable advantage of this type of birth is the quicker recovery of the woman’s body and the possibility that the baby can be colonized by beneficial microorganisms, which may strengthen its later immunity. There are many other benefits to natural birth. However, it is important to note that not every woman can or wants to give birth this way.

Water Birth

Water birth is a variant of natural birth. The woman is in a special tub during labor, and her body is immersed in water. Water has relaxing properties and can alleviate some of the pain associated with contractions. This birth method is also very beneficial for the baby and less traumatic than other types of birth. However, it is very important that an experienced midwife ensures the safety of the pregnant woman during a water birth. Unfortunately, this type of birth is not suitable for every mother. Contraindications include, among others, high blood pressure, chronic skin diseases, circulatory system conditions, and any complications or abnormalities during pregnancy. If a water birth is desired, it should be checked whether the chosen hospital offers this option.

C-Section

There are situations in which a natural birth is not possible or presents a danger to the health or life of the woman and child. In such cases, a C-section is necessary. It is a surgical procedure in which gynecologists, after prior anesthesia by an anesthetist, cut through the abdominal wall and uterus to deliver the baby. The entire procedure takes place in the operating room. The woman is usually anesthetized with spinal anesthesia, so she remains conscious during the procedure but does not feel pain. The decision to perform a C-section is always made by the doctor based on medical indications. It also happens that during a natural birth, doctors opt for a C-section if complications arise and the well-being of the baby is at risk. The C-section is now a very commonly performed procedure. However, it is a surgical intervention, which, like any other surgical procedure, is associated with potential serious complications that are less likely in a natural birth. After a C-section, a woman often takes longer to recover than after a natural birth.

Instrumental Birth

In some cases, the help of a vacuum extractor or forceps is required during a natural birth. Due to the increasing number of C-sections, this is less common today. An instrumental birth is necessary if, during natural labor, there is a danger to the life of the child, the woman is physically exhausted, or if a heart condition prevents her from exerting the necessary pushing effort. The vacuum extractor or forceps are used to help the baby’s head pass through the birth canal. Unfortunately, this can be associated with possible complications, such as injuries to the birth canal, head injuries to the child, bruising, or hematomas. Nevertheless, an instrumental birth is sometimes necessary to allow the child to make its way into the world.

Home Birth

In recent years, home births have been gaining popularity. This, like water birth, is a form of natural birth. However, the entire birth process takes place at home, where the woman feels the safest and most comfortable. An experienced midwife must accompany the woman to assist in case of complications for both the mother and the child. According to experts, home birth carries high risks. In more serious complications, such as bleeding, valuable time may be lost transporting the woman to the hospital. The same applies to the child, who may require immediate medical help from neonatologists in certain situations. It is very important to speak with a doctor before deciding on a home birth and to consider all the pros and cons.

Lotus Birth

A lotus birth refers to a natural birth in which the umbilical cord is not cut after the baby is born. In this case, one waits for the natural detachment of the umbilical cord, which usually occurs after a few days. Supporters of lotus birth claim that the transition of the baby from life in the womb to the outside world is gentler and smoother. However, experts agree and advise against lotus birth. It can be associated with a dangerous risk of infection.