| If you have had no problems in pregnancy, your baby is a normal size, you have had babies vaginally with no problems before and your labour starts normally at term (37-42 weeks) then the chances are that you will have a normal vaginal delivery. Contrary to mythology, doctors would rather you have a normal delivery in most instances rather than a Caesarean. If the baby is showing signs of distress in labour (abnormal heart rate/CTG trace and/or passing green meconium), if the baby is facing the wrong way, if your placenta covers the cervix or is bleeding or if you have a serious medical condition (this list is not exhaustive!) then a Caesarean Section is a lot safer for you & the baby than insisting on a 'normal' delivery. Of course, ultimately it is your decision and you cannot have an operation without giving your consent. But you would be well advised to take what your doctors and midwives say to you seriously! |
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