If you’re expecting a baby, there’s a good chance you’ve wondered if you’ll have a vaginal birth or a caesarean section (C-section). Perhaps, you’ve even discussed the chances of having a C-section with your doctor or midwife.
You might even wonder if a C-section is easier or safer than vaginal birth. It is important to get the facts and understand your options, so you can be prepared to make the best decisions for you and your baby.
Vaginal birth is the most common delivery method. But, if complications occur at any time throughout pregnancy or labour, a C-section might be arranged or done immediately.
‘It got complicated’
The first time Phiwokazi Bam (34), from Theunissen in the Free State, gave birth was in 2008. She needed to give birth via C-section because her unborn baby boy weighed a whopping four kilograms. She says that although having a C-section did not cause any pain, the subsequent postpartum pain was excruciating.
“After birth, the first cough is a nightmare. Being confined to bed and unable to provide your new-born with the attention you want is the toughest part.”
Bam gave birth to three more healthy sons which arrived naturally. She adds that although the pain of giving birth naturally is very painful during labour, minor wounds and scratches that often heal in a week are the only discomfort experienced after giving birth.
‘Being fit certainly has its benefit’
Gym fanatic Linomtha Linoh (40), from Khayelitsha in Cape Town, says that she was 27 when she gave birth to her first child. She has always placed a priority on fitness. She also says that being fit might have helped her heal quickly after giving birth through a C-section.
“I went through labour with my first child, and it lasted six days. The baby was too big, and the process was slowed. Six days of labour pains almost killed me since I wasn’t eating for days, and it wasn’t good for the baby.”
Linoh adds that with her three children, also birthed through C-section, postpartum discomfort only lasted for six weeks before disappearing completely.
She says she has heard some mothers complain that their wounds take a very long time to heal. She advises staying in shape so that the body can defend itself against infection and sluggish recovery.
“Exercising plays a significant part, certainly, my body heals extremely well and quickly.”
Making the choice
Natural birth is the most frequent and safest method of childbirth, accounting for around 80% of births globally.
According to Dr Mxolisi Xulu from the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, recovery after vaginal delivery is often quicker and less painful than after a C-section, allowing the mother to spend more time with her baby.
He says both the mother and the baby benefit from a natural delivery. During a vaginal delivery, the baby’s lungs which are filled with fluid in the uterus, undergo a procedure that prepares them to breathe oxygen after birth.
As a result of not having the opportunity to perform this procedure, babies delivered through C-section may have respiratory difficulties due to excess fluid in the lungs at birth.
“Natural delivery allows moms more flexibility to move and change positions during labour. This boosts their chances of having a vaginal birth and offers them a greater feeling of control over the whole process.”
Xulu adds that labour contractions prepare the mother’s body for the birthing, breastfeeding, and recovery processes. Natural birth also allows mothers to return home sooner than those who had a caesarean section.
“If there are no complications, the mother may be home from the hospital within six hours, while a C-section would need three to five days of observation, depending on the person’s complications.”
Postpartum nutrition
According to registered dietitian Faaizah Laher, a healthy, balanced diet postpartum is vital, no matter if it was a vaginal birth or a caesarean section.
“A balanced diet supports the changing body, now that the placenta and baby are both out, but there is still a considerable amount of healing and development that needs to happen. The job is not over yet.”
Laher is a spokesperson for the Association of Dietetics in South Africa.
She adds that there is a higher energy requirement postpartum, but this should come from nutrient-dense foods. Choose whole grains over refined grains, and make sure to consume enough lean protein and at least half a plate of vegetables with each meal to maximize fibre intake, Laher advises.
She recommends liquid intake in the form of water, herbal tea, or low-calorie drinks. “Try to avoid sugar-sweetened drinks.”
Laher also advises serving fruits as a snack because many postpartum moms experience frequent hunger; ensure meals are balanced and provide satiety. She adds that many nutrients are needed in the recovery period. Continue to take your pregnancy supplement as you did during pregnancy. This will help provide a broad cover for most vitamins and minerals.
According to Laher, the following need to be taken seriously:
- Iron. It’s important to replenish the iron you lose during childbirth. If you’re breastfeeding, your iron stores supply your baby with iron for their proper development and thyroid function. Many pregnancy supplements do have added iron. Good iron sources include red meat, liver and green leafy vegetables.
- Vitamin B12. B12 is required for proper red blood cell development and energy production. The best sources are animal foods, such as tuna, liver, beef, and salmon. You can also get it from fortified dairy and cereals. Vegans are advised to take a B12 supplement.
- Vitamin D. It supports the immune system, brain, and nervous system and reduces the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. The best form of vitamin D is going outside before midday and exposing your skin to sunlight! The best food sources of Vitamin D are fatty fish like salmon and tuna, liver and egg yolks.
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