Q:
I’m 16 weeks pregnant and have an unusual question: does a healthy woman get to choose if she wants to have her baby delivered by C-section or vaginally? I worry most about the long-term effects of a vaginal birth on my body. Are there more pros or cons to having one type of delivery over the other?
A:
Dear Candis,
The vast majority of obstetricians would encourage you to have a vaginal delivery. Although cesarean section is a relatively safe procedure, you will heal faster and have fewer risks (blood loss, infection, etc.) with a vaginal birth.
Much has been made of the long-term effects of vaginal delivery on the muscles surrounding the bladder, rectum and vagina. There are women who suffer a “prolapse,” or a dropping of these organs, probably as a consequence of childbirth. However, their numbers are not high. There are no other “long-term effects on your body.”
If you weigh all the current evidence, a vaginal delivery is considered safer and the preferred route of delivery. Very few obstetricians would do an elective cesarean section based on a patient’s request.
Craig L. Bissinger M.D.
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.
