C-section vs natural birth

At a glance

A Caesarean section can be done after 37 weeks of pregnancy, but it is advisable not to perform before 39 weeks of pregnancy.

C-section should be recommended only when natural birth might pose risk to the mother or baby, and the indications include dystocia (prolonged labor or a failure to progress), pregnancy-induced hypertension, cord prolapse, uterine rupture, severe heart problem of mother or baby, and overweight of the baby.

Even with indications presenting, C-section is not always necessary, because as with all surgeries, a C-section is associated with health risks, and it needs doctors and midwives' experience and discretion to make decision.

The health risks for mothers include postoperative adhesions, incisional hernias and wound infections.

The risks for babies include premature birth, breathing problems and fetal injury.

Uterine contraction and vaginal pressure during a natural birth can help a baby develop, but the two conditions are unavailable during C-section.

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