If a mother chooses natural birth she will have to discuss this option with her doctor or gynaecologist.
It is good for the mother to find out all there is to know about the advantages and disadvantages of giving natural birth before making her final decision.
The Addie asked Dr Clive Khoza what he believes is the best option.
Without a doubt he says natural birth is still the best option.
Working as a gynaecologist at Parkland Clinic, he would recommend natural birth as a first option because it is safe for both mother and baby.
There are several other advantages which he says, include early recovery after birth for the mother, early discharge from hospital and a better bond between mother and her baby.
He says breastfeeding is likely to be successful as the mother starts early unlike with a caesarean.
He claims there are no risks of complications with future pregnancies compared to caesarean.
“As the baby comes out of the vagina there is a ‘squeeze effect’ where amniotic fluid is squeezed out of the baby’s chest.
This is associated with fewer respiratory problems for the baby,” says Khoza.
Another benefit is the baby acquires the mother’s vaginal bacteria, a natural flora, which is protective to the baby and helps build the baby’s immune system.
During early breastfeeding, the colustrum, the initial fluid coming out of the breast, is rich in maternal antibiotics.
“This is protective to the baby and will prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases that usually affect babies” he says.
These benefits go for the mother too.
According to him the biggest disadvantage of having natural birth is the effect it has on the pelvic floor muscles.
These muscles supports the pelvic structures such as the bladder, uterus and rectum.
“It is associated with the inability to hold urine and long term effects risk increases with the number of babies delivered.”
Khoza says the caesarean rate in South African hospitals range between 30% and 40% and even higher in some private hospitals.
This puts normal birth rates at about 60% to 70%.
He claims that midwife run maternity units and lower level hospitals will have higher normal birth rates.
Khoza recommends pregnant mothers should see their doctors or health care workers early in pregnancy.
“This is to ensure proper assessment and classification of their pregnancy.”
Proper planning will be done in terms of which hospital the mother will deliver her baby at and also their mode of delivery.
Primarily Khoza suggests all mothers should deliver their babies naturally as it is safer for both mother and baby.
