If you're about to become a mother, you probably have a lot of questions, and maybe even some concerns, about how to deliver your baby, which is called 'vaginal delivery' ( Today we are going to talk about vaginal delivery , or the normal delivery we all know. This is how most mothers deliver their babies. So, let's see how exactly this happens and what are the important things you need to know about it?
In fact, this is the most common birth method in the world. Just think, in the United States alone, more than 2.5 million babies were born this way in 2020. That's about 68% of all births there. Worldwide, only 80 out of 100 births are done this way. So this is very common.
What are the different methods of vaginal delivery?
Okay, now let's see if there are different methods of this normal childbirth. Yes, we can identify three main methods.
- Spontaneous vaginal delivery: Simply put, this is a natural birth that occurs without any medical intervention, that is, without medication to induce labor. Childbirth . Your body begins this process on its own and gives birth to the baby.
- Induced vaginal delivery: Sometimes, doctors have to use drugs or other methods to start labor . They also use these methods to prepare the cervix. This is also called labor induction.
- Assisted vaginal delivery: This involves using special equipment to help deliver the baby. This means that the baby is carefully removed using a device called forceps or a vacuum. This can be done during the natural birth mentioned above or during an induced birth.
Three stages of childbirth! What are they?
When we look at a normal childbirth, we can divide it into three main parts, or stages. These are labor , birth , and delivery of the placenta . Let's talk about each of these stages in a little more detail .
1. Labor pains
This is the first and often longest stage. It begins when your uterus begins to contract (uterine contractions) . It feels like your stomach muscles are tightening and tightening. These contractions cause your cervix to gradually efface (efface) and open (dilate) . This stage of labor ends when your cervix is about 10 centimeters, or fully dilated. There are three other smaller stages in this stage:
- Early labor: This is the time when contractions begin and the cervix begins to dilate. By the end of this period, the cervix may be about 5 centimeters dilated. The pain is not too severe at first, and is somewhat bearable.
- Active labor : This is the stage where contractions become stronger and more frequent . They may last for about a minute, but may come back every three minutes. Many mothers ask for an epidural at this point to reduce the pain, as the pain is quite intense. Sometimes, doctors may also give you a medicine called oxytocin (brand name Pitocin®) to help you get into labor .
- Transitional labor: This is the period just before your cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters. Although this is a relatively short period, the pain is quite intense . Contractions come very quickly and can last for more than a minute. You may sweat, vomit, or have cramping during this time. Don't worry, this is when you are about to start pushing your baby out.
2. Birth
Now is the most important time. This is the time from when your cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters until your baby comes out of the birth canal . During this stage, your doctor or nurse will tell you to push hard . You may feel like you're going to poop, which is normal. If you have an epidural, your doctor will guide you on when and how to push, as you won't feel the pain. This stage can take a few minutes for some people, and a few hours for others. In general, if you have had a baby before, this stage may go by a little faster.
3. Placenta delivery
After the baby comes into this world, there is one more little thing. That is the placenta coming out . We also call this 'afterbirth'. This can start within a few minutes after the baby comes out and usually lasts for about 30 minutes. The doctor will tell you to push slowly two or three more times to get the placenta out completely.
The important thing is that not everyone's birth experience is the same. These things can vary from person to person . If you get an epidural, the pain you feel is much less than if you don't. Also, if this is your first baby, labor pains may last a little longer. Many factors affect this, such as the size of the baby, the position of the baby, and how quickly your cervix dilates.
Are there any risks in a normal delivery?
Most of the time, a vaginal birth is the least risky option . But like everything, sometimes minor complications can occur. Don't worry, the doctors are prepared for these things. Let's take a look at what those things can be:
- Failure to Progress : This means that labor pains have gradually subsided, or stopped, and the cervix is no longer dilating. If this happens, your doctor may give you oxytocin to stimulate contractions.
- Irregular fetal heart rate: Sometimes the baby's heart rate can slow down due to pressure on the baby's head or umbilical cord.
- Hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding during or after delivery. Sometimes, excessive bleeding can occur hours after delivery, which is called ``postpartum hemorrhage.''
- Vaginal tears: The tissue around the vagina and rectum can tear as the baby comes out.
- Blood clots in the legs (`Deep vein thrombosis`): After having a baby, blood clots can form in the legs or pelvis.
- Postpartum preeclampsia: A condition in which a mother's blood pressure suddenly increases significantly after giving birth .
Are there times when a normal delivery is not appropriate?
Yes, usually doctors prefer this method. But in some cases, a normal delivery can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. In such cases, the doctor may recommend that you have a ``Caesarean section (C-section)'' . Let's see what are such cases:
- If your baby is in a breech position or across the abdomen .
- If you have a placenta problem like placenta previa , which means the placenta is located low in the uterus, covering the cervix.
- If you have an untreated infection or sores in the genital area caused by genital herpes (`Herpes simplex virus`) .
- If you have a chronic health condition (e.g. heart disease, severe diabetes).
What are the advantages of a normal delivery?
This method has several advantages for both mother and baby. Let's see what they are.
Benefits for the mother:
- Faster recovery: You can walk and work faster compared to a cesarean section (C-section).
- Starting breastfeeding early: In most cases, breastfeeding can be started quickly and easily.
- Reduced complications in future pregnancies: If you are expecting another baby in the future, there is a lower chance of complications.
Benefits for the baby:
- Reduced risk of respiratory distress: As the baby emerges vaginally, fluid is helped to drain from the baby's lungs, reducing respiratory distress.
- Improved immune system function: The baby's immune system is strengthened as the baby receives beneficial bacteria from the mother's vagina.
- Increased chances of breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is more likely to be successful after a normal delivery.
Is normal childbirth painful?
Yes, this can be a painful experience . But don't worry , there are many ways to manage this pain. Some people use natural methods like breathing exercises and massage. Others get an 'epidural block' . This numbs the area below the waist, so you don't feel much pain. Don't forget to talk to your doctor about your pain relief options. Then you can choose the one that suits you best.
What can you expect after giving birth?
After having a baby, you may experience many changes in your body and mind. These are normal, so don't worry:
- Constipation.
- Swollen/hard breasts (`Engorged breasts`), when milk comes in.
- Vaginal pain and soreness (especially if there have been tears).
- Mood swings – feeling happy at one moment, sad at the other.
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Hemorrhoids.
- Hormonal changes can cause headaches, hot flashes, or sweating.
- Cramps – When the uterus contracts back to its original size.
- Lochia – This is a special discharge from the vagina, which is initially blood-colored and then gradually changes color.
Some mothers may experience a temporary feeling of sadness called the "baby blues." They may also experience conditions like postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety . If you continue to feel sad, anxious, or have mood swings even a few weeks after having your baby, be sure to talk to your doctor .
How long does it take to heal?
The recovery time after a vaginal birth varies from person to person. However, it is usually faster than a C-section. Whether or not you have a tear in your vagina and how large it is can affect the healing time. If you have a tear, you may be sore for a few weeks. It may be difficult to use the toilet, sit, stand, or do other daily activities. Swelling and itching around the tear are common. Many people may experience swelling, bruising, and general pain for a week or two, even if they don't have a tear in their vagina. Cold compresses or cooling sanitary pads can help.
How long does it take to bleed after having a baby?
It varies from person to person. Some people may bleed for less time than others. It is normal to bleed during your postpartum visit a few weeks after having your baby. However, if your bleeding increases over time, or if you are bleeding so much that you are still bleeding extra thick sanitary pads after a few weeks, see your doctor right away.
How long after having a baby can you have sex?
Most doctors recommend waiting at least six weeks , or until after your postpartum visit, before having sex. This gives your body time to heal, and your doctor can check your vagina to make sure it's healed properly. Also, think about your birth control options and future pregnancies before having sex again. Don't assume that you can't get pregnant again just because you haven't had your period or just had a baby, because it can happen.
Is it possible to prepare for a normal delivery?
You can try to prepare yourself by making a birth plan . This means planning out your wishes, whether you want pain medication, and what you want to happen after the baby is born. But no one can really predict what will happen when the time comes. Every birth and every experience is different . It can be helpful to talk to your partner, family, friends, and doctor about your wishes and expectations. Asking questions beforehand will also help you understand what to expect.
What questions should you ask the doctor?
It can be hard to know exactly what to expect from a normal birth, especially if you've never had a baby before. Even if you've had normal babies before, every birth is a new and different experience.
Here are some questions that are commonly asked of doctors, and they may be helpful to you too:
- What are the risks of a normal delivery?
- How do I know when I need to push ?
- What can I do to reduce the risk of vaginal tearing ? (e.g. perineal massage)
- How do I know if labor pains have started ?
- When should I go to the hospital ? What symptoms should I have?
- How long does it take to recover after a normal childbirth?
- Is there anything I can do to increase the chances of a normal delivery ? (e.g. exercise, diet)
The most important things for you to remember (Take-Home Message)
Bringing a baby into the world is a truly beautiful, life-changing experience. Every pregnancy, every labor, and every birth is different. Vaginal delivery is the most common way to have a baby. While it's hard to know exactly what to expect except through experience, talking to your doctor and asking questions can help you prepare.
This procedure is generally low-risk and very successful. If any complications arise, the medical team is trained to manage them and help you welcome a healthy baby into the world. So rest assured! You are not on this journey alone.
` Childbirth, normal childbirth, vaginal delivery, pregnancy, having a baby, labor pains, mother and child
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