If you are pregnant or still thinking of having kids, you are probably in a dilemma deciding which is best: Natural birth or caesarean section (C-section)? With everyone around offering their suggestions, you can get a little overwhelmed, whether this is your first pregnancy or not. So, let’s cut to the chase and talk about what each option truly entails, based on facts, not fear.
WHAT IS NATURAL BIRTH?
Natural birth refers to a vaginal delivery with minimal medical intervention. This can include unmedicated deliveries, home births or hospital births with limited drugs.
Pros
Faster recovery (within a day): Most women can walk, sit and move comfortably within hours. Once the fever subsided, I went for a walk around the hospital floor because I was too bored lying in bed since morning.
Shorter hospital stay: Discharge often happens within 24–48 hours. I was out the next evening!
Better for baby: The squeezing through the birth canal helps clear a newborn’s lungs and jumpstarts breathing.
Lower risk of complications in future pregnancies. My grandmother had 8 kids, NATURALLY!
Immediate bonding: Breastfeeding can begin sooner, so you feel connected to your baby.
Risks
Sudden tearing or the need for an episiotomy: Not sure how I got over this but during vaginal birth, the skin and muscles between the vagina and anus (called the perineum) may tear naturally as the baby’s head emerges. These tears can range from minor to more severe, but usually heal well with stitches. Mostly, your doctor may make a small surgical cut in the perineum, called an episiotomy, to give the baby more space to get out. While not always necessary, planned episiotomies can reduce the risk of uncontrolled tearing. Apparently, proper perineal massage before delivery and controlled pushing techniques can help prepare the tissues for stretching. I wish I had known this.
Pelvic floor injury: This refers to the damage or weakening of the muscles and tissues that support the bladder, uterus and rectum. It can lead to issues like accidental leakage of urine (while laughing, sneezing, coughing, etc), pelvic organ descent or pain during intercourse. The risk increases with prolonged pushing, large baby size or forceps-assisted deliveries. However, physiotherapy after birth can help in a full recovery.
Emergency C-section: In some cases, vaginal delivery doesn’t go as planned. This is known as ‘labour dystocia.’ It may involve weak or irregular contractions, the baby’s head not descending, or the cervix not dilating further. Also, if the baby shows signs of distress, like an abnormal heart rate or lack of oxygen, your doctor may recommend an emergency C-section to ensure safety for both mother and baby. My first delivery was an emergency C-section.
Recovery Truths
The vagina can get sore. But, it can be managed with rest and the latest technologies used to reduce pain.
There can be light bleeding for weeks.
You may experience emotional highs and lows as your hormones change.
Exhaustion may cause fever for a while.
WHAT IS A CAESAREAN OR C-SECTION?
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A caesarean section, or C-section as it is generally called, is a surgical procedure where the baby is removed through an opening made in the mother’s stomach area. It may be planned or done in an emergency. A vertical incision allows the surgeon more access to the pelvic area and is often used in emergency cases. A horizontal incision made along the natural folds of the skin typically heals better and leaves a thinner, more discreet scar.
Pros
Controlled environment: Especially useful in high-risk pregnancies or medical complications. A C-section is a planned surgical procedure, which means everything, from timing to medical staff to equipment, is well-prepared. This control can be especially comforting in high-risk pregnancies, such as those involving gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, twins or multiples or a history of complications. It reduces the unpredictability of labour and ensures immediate medical intervention, if needed.
Less trauma for the baby: There is less trauma in cases where a vaginal delivery can pose a threat. In certain circumstaces, vaginal birth can prove risky to the baby. For example, when the baby is in a breech position, the placenta is covering the cervix or the umbilical cord is compressed. A C-section can help avoid these complications by safely and quickly removing the baby, minimizing birth trauma, oxygen deprivation or injury.
Little or no labour pain: For many women, one of the biggest fears about childbirth is labour pain. A C-section can bypass contractions and the physical strain of pushing. Though there’s discomfort, the pain is managed with medication and the procedure itself is done under spinal or epidural anaesthesia. So, you’re awake, you can feel what’s happening, but you feel no pain during the delivery process.
Risks
Longer recovery (4–6 weeks): A C-section is a major abdominal surgery, which means healing can take its time. Most women need around 4 to 6 weeks before resuming normal activity. During this period, simple tasks like standing up, getting out of bed or walking can be painful and feel exhausting. Recovery also includes wound care, managing stitches and gradually regaining strength, especially when you’re caring for a newborn around the clock.
Painful movement and limited mobility: The incision, just above the pubic bone, can be sore, tight and sensitive for days or even weeks. Activities like lifting your baby, coughing, laughing or even using the washroom may cause discomfort. Climbing stairs or bending becomes a challenge. Many women feel like their abdomen is “pulling” or “burning” while healing, which can make recovery emotionally draining, too.
Increased risks: After a caesarean, there is a risk of complications in future pregnancies, like placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix), placenta accreta (where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall) or uterine rupture (especially if attempting a VBAC). Since C-sections are surgical, there’s a higher risk of post-operative infections (like at the incision site or in the uterus). There’s also a slightly elevated chance of blood clots, particularly in the legs or lungs, which is why doctors often encourage gentle walking soon after surgery.
More expensive: C-sections involve a longer hospital stay (3 days minimum). Therefore, the medical costs are higher due to surgical staff, operation theatre use, anaesthesia and extended care. This can be emotionally taxing and financially draining for many.
Recovery Truths
The first few days are the toughest due to intense pain (which could cause discomfort throughout your body). Even turning in bed or sitting up can feel like a task.
That first walk to the bathroom? It might feel like climbing Everest. But gentle movement is necessary to help prevent blood clots and aid bowel function.
Without medication, even coughing, laughing or feeding your baby might be uncomfortable. But your doctor will usually ensure that any medicine you take is safe when breastfeeding.
You’ll be advised not to lift anything heavier than your baby for at least 6 weeks. This includes grocery bags, toddlers and heavy laundry baskets. Also, it’s advisable to limit exercise, driving and housework to avoid complications like wound reopening, hernia or internal strain.
MY HONEST OPINION
My first delivery turned into an emergency caesarean section because I wasn’t dilating, my baby was chilling inside for hours and her heart rate dropped. We approved it at the time for her safety. But when I stepped down for the first time after the operation, I knew I NEVER wanted to do this again. The excruciating pain I felt forced me to remember my grandparents and their parents, who had more than 4 children. I also thought of my friends who went through two C-sections within 2 years. Despite this, I went for my driving test and got my driving licence within 3 months of having a caesarean section.
My second delivery, thankfully, was normal. It was called a VBAC. Though my baby slid out while I was puking, it was exhausting. After that, I had a high fever before I regained my senses. But, I recovered within a few days, attended practices and performed a belly dance piece with friends on stage three months later.
So, though none make you less of a mother, I would always choose to go for a normal delivery because I like natural. I loved that I recovered sooner and could walk around on the same day. I didn’t have to hold my stomach for two weeks while I was out of bed. The epidural shots took care of the contraction pains while the infrared therapy took care of the pains down there.
Pin it to decide!
NATURAL BIRTH OR CAESAREAN? WHAT YOU SHOULD CHOOSE
While I would advise you to go the natural way, you must make sure whichever delivery you choose is:
Safe for both mother and baby
Decided with the support of your gynaecologist
Aligned with your medical history
The idea is to listen to your body, do your research and, most importantly, not let anyone guilt you into a decision that does not feel right. After all, motherhood doesn’t begin with how you give birth. It begins the moment you choose to nurture life within you.
Cindy D'Silva, besides being a mother of two angels, is a belly dancer, regular writer and hobby photographer. She loves partying, bowling and eating sushi. There is a detailed biography about her on the ABOUT ME page in case you would like to know more.
You can like and follow her Facebook page to get all updates on the latest blogs and more: https://www.facebook.com/blogaberry/
As someone who recently went through an emergency C-section, I get everything you mentioned. I don’t want to relive the trauma right now and I’m not in the perfect headspace even after ten months. But that’s just me. Your post is amazing without making anyone scared or overwhelmed.
I am not a mother so I am in no position to judge. Either way too. Observing the two kids of births among friends and family, I have noticed that the C-section ones tended to have continued complications. This is an exhaustive post that would help would be mothers make an informed choice.
That’s such an honest and informative post, Cindy! I really appreciate how you shared both the facts and your personal experiences, makes it so relatable. Every birth journey is different, and this post is a great reminder that what matters most is the safety and well-being of both mom and baby.
I went through a c section. tried natural birth and bore the pain for 16 hrs. But unfortunately had to go for emergency c section. And you are right it depends on mother’s choice and body
My sister had her baby the normal way, and she was cured within 5 months, but my friend had a cesarean baby, and she recovered within a month. I guess it depends from body to body what is good for them. Your article is very informative and surely broke some societal stigmas too.
Both my children were natural births. Back then caesarean was done only in case of emergency. That is why there were a lot of stillbirths also. Your post if very informative.
There are so many myths, facts, elder people opinions that made me skeptical of the whole situation but your words blended with logic and emotions make me feel little confident in atleast differentiating between the two. Thank you for this informative blog.
Really liked your detailed blog… you’ve very well explained the techniques clearly with their pros and cons. I agree with you that a woman who had a C-section before doesn’t always have to go for it again. It depends on many things, and you’ve explained them well. But yes, in some countries, doctors suggest a second C-section if the first baby was born that way,like in my case.
Well for a mother like me, even a single drop of blood or cut scares me. So I always told my doctor to do whatever he needed to do with me. All that was important for me was to make the baby come out safely into this world. I can feel every bit of this post but still cesarean is less scary for me than natural birth. I always felt what if I fail to manage the breathing and my baby gets stuck midway…. Oh No it is again making me scared to think of it. I will vote for Ceasarean for me. Managing the pain was merrier for me than me feeling scared and tensed with normal birth.
I have never been a mother and now, that time and urge has long gone. However, this is so useful for all the women in today’s times. Actually, this was my first cover story, way back in 1999 when I started working. The cover was called Born Free. Maybe I didn’t understand its importance then, but now I do. I hope more women choose the natural birthing process, like Kalki Koechlin did water birthing.
This post was so enlightening and caring—I feel seen. Deciding between natural birth and C-section is profound, and your balanced, evidence-based advice brings comfort and clarity. I’m blessed to not have this dilemma on choosing when I gave birth (naturally) with my two daughters. This information is very helpful for mothers-to-be.
Thanks for such an insightful, balanced breakdown! 🤍 You really highlight that while natural birth can offer quicker recovery, C‑sections can be lifesavers in certain medical situations. The honesty about the longer healing time and future pregnancy risks is much appreciated; it helps expecting moms make informed choices.
You had to go through both, Cindy. In our times, we didn’t have a choice. Good, you listed out the pros and cons of both. The gynaecologist decided at that time whether it would be a C-section or a natural birth. I was 20 when I had my son, and it was an emergency C-section. Believe me, it was a nightmare. I was scarred for life or so I thought. I knew I had an inverted pelvis, and my second would be a C-section as well. I went into it with both eyes open, but I had changed the hospital and the second time, my daughter was born in the morning, and I was walking by evening. These days, moms choose natural or C-section.
I am a child of a caesarian birth so am partial 🙂 haha but jokes aside I think it’s great for women to know the pros and cons of both and to choose what suits them basis their health
I had two C-sections and many Auntie’s have criticized me and my choice of not going for normal delivery. But it is just your view that matters. I so like the way you have written all the pros and risks associated with it
Cindy, You have not only highlighted the dilemma of an expecting mother who had had a Cx previously but also given a very unbiased and balanced view of the possible options and outcomes. I agree with your views that it is not necessary that a women who had a Cx earlier needs to go for it again compulsorily, it could depend on a lot of factors that have been suitably highlighted in your post.Sharing your own journey makes it even more credible and honest.
That’s a detailed blog where you have very well mentioned the techniques wih their own pros and cons. I had an emergency C-section but i recovered very quickly, hardly any pain, just some dizziness due to anaesthesia effect. I still thank my doctor.
I’m not a mother, and to be very honest, I never had any plans or intentions of becoming one, so I couldn’t really relate to the emotions or experiences shared in this post. That said, I still read the blog because I was curious and wanted to increase my general knowledge—it’s always good to understand what people around us go through. The whole process of childbirth, whether natural or C-section, honestly feels a bit overrated to me, probably because I’ve never been inclined towards motherhood. But I do appreciate the way you broke down the pros, risks, and recovery aspects in such a balanced and clear way. It helped me learn something new without being overwhelmed. Your writing is informative without being preachy, which I liked. It’s definitely a helpful read for someone looking to make an informed decision. I may not connect to it personally, but I respect the effort and honesty behind this post.
36 Comments
As someone who recently went through an emergency C-section, I get everything you mentioned. I don’t want to relive the trauma right now and I’m not in the perfect headspace even after ten months. But that’s just me. Your post is amazing without making anyone scared or overwhelmed.
Thanks, Shalini.
I am not a mother so I am in no position to judge. Either way too. Observing the two kids of births among friends and family, I have noticed that the C-section ones tended to have continued complications. This is an exhaustive post that would help would be mothers make an informed choice.
That’s such an honest and informative post, Cindy! I really appreciate how you shared both the facts and your personal experiences, makes it so relatable. Every birth journey is different, and this post is a great reminder that what matters most is the safety and well-being of both mom and baby.
I’m terrified of needles and surgery so I insisted and had normal delivery for both my kids. It depends on the situation and doctor’s advice though.
A very balanced and honest post that would surely help mothers-to-be.
It always wise to have it planned before, but also accept what the gynecologist suggests keeping in mind the condition of the baby and mom.
I went through a c section. tried natural birth and bore the pain for 16 hrs. But unfortunately had to go for emergency c section. And you are right it depends on mother’s choice and body
My sister had her baby the normal way, and she was cured within 5 months, but my friend had a cesarean baby, and she recovered within a month. I guess it depends from body to body what is good for them. Your article is very informative and surely broke some societal stigmas too.
Both my children were natural births. Back then caesarean was done only in case of emergency. That is why there were a lot of stillbirths also. Your post if very informative.
Recently my sister had a C-section. It is very useful blog for women planning to have a baby.
Hope you’re sister is doing well, Tanvi. All the best to her.
There are so many myths, facts, elder people opinions that made me skeptical of the whole situation but your words blended with logic and emotions make me feel little confident in atleast differentiating between the two. Thank you for this informative blog.
You’re welcome, Sameeksha!
Really liked your detailed blog… you’ve very well explained the techniques clearly with their pros and cons. I agree with you that a woman who had a C-section before doesn’t always have to go for it again. It depends on many things, and you’ve explained them well. But yes, in some countries, doctors suggest a second C-section if the first baby was born that way,like in my case.
Perhaps the VBAC option wasn’t available?
Well for a mother like me, even a single drop of blood or cut scares me. So I always told my doctor to do whatever he needed to do with me. All that was important for me was to make the baby come out safely into this world. I can feel every bit of this post but still cesarean is less scary for me than natural birth. I always felt what if I fail to manage the breathing and my baby gets stuck midway…. Oh No it is again making me scared to think of it. I will vote for Ceasarean for me. Managing the pain was merrier for me than me feeling scared and tensed with normal birth.
Yeah whatever works best for you, Samata!
I have never been a mother and now, that time and urge has long gone. However, this is so useful for all the women in today’s times. Actually, this was my first cover story, way back in 1999 when I started working. The cover was called Born Free. Maybe I didn’t understand its importance then, but now I do. I hope more women choose the natural birthing process, like Kalki Koechlin did water birthing.
I think so, too, Ambica, though all thoughts and bodies are different.
A very personal choice for every individual. I have also seen many people who insist on normal delivery, despite the doctor’s advice.
You have to consult your doctor of course.
This post was so enlightening and caring—I feel seen. Deciding between natural birth and C-section is profound, and your balanced, evidence-based advice brings comfort and clarity. I’m blessed to not have this dilemma on choosing when I gave birth (naturally) with my two daughters. This information is very helpful for mothers-to-be.
That’s great, Jeannine!
Thanks for such an insightful, balanced breakdown! 🤍 You really highlight that while natural birth can offer quicker recovery, C‑sections can be lifesavers in certain medical situations. The honesty about the longer healing time and future pregnancy risks is much appreciated; it helps expecting moms make informed choices.
Thanks, Swati!
You had to go through both, Cindy. In our times, we didn’t have a choice. Good, you listed out the pros and cons of both. The gynaecologist decided at that time whether it would be a C-section or a natural birth. I was 20 when I had my son, and it was an emergency C-section. Believe me, it was a nightmare. I was scarred for life or so I thought. I knew I had an inverted pelvis, and my second would be a C-section as well. I went into it with both eyes open, but I had changed the hospital and the second time, my daughter was born in the morning, and I was walking by evening. These days, moms choose natural or C-section.
Yes it was a nightmare but technology has evolved I guess! I would still prefer a normal delivery.
I am a child of a caesarian birth so am partial 🙂 haha but jokes aside I think it’s great for women to know the pros and cons of both and to choose what suits them basis their health
I had two C-sections and many Auntie’s have criticized me and my choice of not going for normal delivery. But it is just your view that matters. I so like the way you have written all the pros and risks associated with it
Cindy, You have not only highlighted the dilemma of an expecting mother who had had a Cx previously but also given a very unbiased and balanced view of the possible options and outcomes. I agree with your views that it is not necessary that a women who had a Cx earlier needs to go for it again compulsorily, it could depend on a lot of factors that have been suitably highlighted in your post.Sharing your own journey makes it even more credible and honest.
Thanks, Preeti.
This choice is so personal and subjective to every person. But this informative post will be very helpful to make the informed decision for anyone.
That’s a detailed blog where you have very well mentioned the techniques wih their own pros and cons. I had an emergency C-section but i recovered very quickly, hardly any pain, just some dizziness due to anaesthesia effect. I still thank my doctor.
I’m not a mother, and to be very honest, I never had any plans or intentions of becoming one, so I couldn’t really relate to the emotions or experiences shared in this post. That said, I still read the blog because I was curious and wanted to increase my general knowledge—it’s always good to understand what people around us go through. The whole process of childbirth, whether natural or C-section, honestly feels a bit overrated to me, probably because I’ve never been inclined towards motherhood. But I do appreciate the way you broke down the pros, risks, and recovery aspects in such a balanced and clear way. It helped me learn something new without being overwhelmed. Your writing is informative without being preachy, which I liked. It’s definitely a helpful read for someone looking to make an informed decision. I may not connect to it personally, but I respect the effort and honesty behind this post.
Thank you, Romila!