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The value of childbirth is equal, whether it occurs vaginally or through a C-section. Both ways have their own pros and cons. However, when it comes to high-risk pregnancy cases, C section deliveries are mostly prescribed. Let us understand why and how vaginal births and C section deliveries contest each other in case of high-risk obstetrics cases.

The value of vaginal Birth

Vaginal births have been the preferred method of labor since time immemorial. This is because vaginal deliveries are generally considered safer for the mother’s health, as they are a natural process. The risks associated with surgical procedures, including severe bleeding, the possibility of infections, and reactions to medications, do not occur in vaginal births. The healing process is comparatively quicker in vaginal deliveries. However, in certain cases of high-risk obstetrics, allowing a mother to labor naturally could be life-threatening to both the mother and the child. In maternal-fetal medicine, vaginal labor is also not preferable if the baby is too large, as this could cause injuries to the baby, and the mother may experience lingering pain after delivery.

C-Section in High-Risk Cases

Over time, the stigma around C-section deliveries has reduced to a great extent. Nowadays, mothers can choose to have a C-section delivery according to their needs and convenience. However, this convenience does not come without risks. C-section deliveries are more likely to cause long-term post-delivery ailments and discomfort, including pain, blood clots, infections, and more. But this does not mean that the surgical delivery option is wrong; it simply means that the possibility of risks is higher in C-section cases.

That being said, in high-risk pregnancy cases, the surgical delivery procedure often plays a life-saving role. In such cases, allowing a mother to go through normal labor would not be a wise choice, as both the mother and baby would be at higher risk. Most doctors prescribe a C-section when they recognise that conditions are worsening and, if left to chance, either the mother or the baby—or, in some cases, both—could be lost. Surgical deliveries, in such cases, allow gynaecologists to take the right steps and act diligently.

The key to saving lives lies in the doctor’s ability to make the right decisions. In this regard, knowledge of high-risk obstetrics is an added advantage. If you are a gynaecologist, do not wait to skill up in Obstetrics and Gynaecology with our High-Risk Obstetrics Course. Remember, every skill you gain matters in saving precious lives. For more details, please feel free to contact us.

Authored By: Pooja Premraj