C-Section or Normal Delivery?

It is not accurate to say which method of delivery (c-section or normal delivery) is inherently better than the other. The best method of delivery for a specific mother and baby will depend on their individual circumstances and any potential risks or complications. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the ideal rate of c-section deliveries should be between 10-15% of all births.  However, the rate of c-section deliveries varies widely around the world. In some countries, the rate is as low as 5%, while in others it can be as high as 50%.  

As per a recent report from WHO, the worldwide rate of c-section deliveries was 19.1% in 2019, with the highest rates reported in Latin America and the Caribbean (32.3%) and the lowest in Africa (8.5%). 

In Pakistan, according to the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics 22% of childbirth is done by c-section. It was 14% in the year 2013 but it increased by 22% till 2018. In the private sectors, the ratio is 28%. 

According to the Indian Health Sector, the c-section ratio was 17.2% in 2016 and now it has increased to 21.5%. In the private sectors, the ratio is 47.9%. 

First of all it is important to note what the c-section is? 

A c-section, or cesarean section, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through an incision made in the mother's abdomen and uterus. While a normal delivery, also known as a vaginal birth, is the traditional method of childbirth in which a baby is born through the mother's vagina.

The overuse of c-sections can have negative consequences for mothers and babies, such as increased risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, as well as increased health care costs. 

There are also some effects on the babies through normal delivery or cesarean. 

During the normal delivery, the baby is exposed to bacteria. The baby is exposed to the mother's vaginal and gut bacteria, which can help to establish a healthy microbiome in the baby's gut. This exposure can also help to boost the baby's immune system. In contrast, a baby born via c-section is not exposed to these bacteria and may have a different microbiome.

During a vaginal birth, the baby goes through the birth canal, which can help to squeeze out fluids from the baby's lungs and help the baby to start breathing. While a cesarean baby is not exposed to these squeezing forces and may have more fluid in their lungs, which can lead to respiratory problems. There are chances to have jaundice and low blood sugar, and a higher risk of developing allergies and asthma later in life after c-section. 

So, when normal delivery is better for the mother and the baby, then why is the c-section preferred by the doctors? 

Dr. Sadia Khan, Consultant NHS England says, “Firstly, there are personal financial gains involved behind preferring the c-section. Secondly, the patients are not well aware about the c-section, its complications and risks. There are some indications which a patient should know that c-section is not performed in every case and it’s not a normal practice. Normal delivery should be practiced more and mothers should be aware of every situation.” Many times the lack of education affects the choices in India and Pakistan. 

Here are some factors because of which the ratio of c-section is increased? 

1- Changes in lifestyle. 

2- Diabetes during the pregnancy.  

3- Lack of knowledge

4- Lack of experience 

5- Fear of loss 

There is no doubt that a c-section includes the ability to deliver a baby quickly in an emergency situation, the ability to avoid a difficult vaginal delivery, and the ability to deliver a baby in certain positions (such as breech) that may not be safe for a normal delivery.

While the consequences of c-section include the risk of infection and bleeding, longer recovery time for the mother, and the potential for complications such as blood clots and injury to organs in the mother. It also increases the chance of future c-section delivery and other complications during future pregnancies. 

Another thing to consider is the recovery time, vaginal delivery usually takes shorter recovery time compared to c-section, as the incision in the uterus and abdomen made during a c-section can take longer to heal. This could mean that the mother may not be able to lift heavy objects or engage in certain activities for several weeks after the surgery.

However, it's important to note that c-sections should only be performed when they are medically necessary, and not as a matter of convenience or for financial gain. 

It's important that mothers are fully informed about the risks and benefits of c-section compared to vaginal birth and that they are able to make an informed decision about the mode of delivery that is best for them and their baby.