Natural birth is far preferable to cesarean section, at least leaving the body intact without defects. This is the greatest appeal for women concerned about their appearance. Cesarean section is a surgical procedure that can cause harm to the mother, both psychologically and physically. Examples include anesthesia complications, intraoperative or postoperative bleeding, and inadequate postpartum care.Injuries to the bladder, ureter, or intestines during surgery, as well as post-operative infections like peritonitis or sepsis, are possible. Cesarean sections carry a higher rate of postpartum hemorrhage, a 10-20 times higher risk of puerperal infection compared to vaginal delivery, and a fivefold increase in maternal mortality. Natural childbirth aligns with the natural human birthing process.
Four Key Factors for Natural Birth
(1) Birth Canal
Bony Birth Canal: 8–9 cm, elliptical curved passage with two fixed bony barriers (ischial spines).
Soft Birth Canal: Curved passage formed by the lower uterine segment, cervix, vagina, and pelvic floor tissues—containing fatty tissue.
(2) Fetus
The average biparietal diameter (BPD) of a full-term fetus is 91–93 mm.
The narrowest longitudinal diameter of the maternal pelvis is approximately 100 mm.
Malpresentations include breech, transverse, and malpositioned cephalic presentations.
(III) Labor Forces
Refers to uterine contractions, abdominal muscle contractions, and levator ani muscle contractions.
False contractions may occur in late pregnancy, typically lasting 20–30 seconds. During active labor, the longest contractions rarely exceed 45 seconds to one minute.
Excessively prolonged contractions may cause intrauterine hypoxia.
(4) Mental State
Plays a crucial role. Prepare mentally for either vaginal delivery or cesarean section before labor.
Gentle Exercises to Support Natural Birth
A. Cross-legged Sitting
Try sitting cross-legged while watching TV. Ensure a firm surface like the floor. Avoid this if you have symphysis pubis dysfunction.
B. Walking
Browse baby products in department stores during quieter hours. This provides gentle exercise without feeling strenuous. Remember to rest for a few minutes every hour or so.
C Stair Climbing
Stair climbing increases physical activity, aiding smooth labor progression. In late pregnancy, climb stairs cautiously and slowly, ideally with someone accompanying you.
D Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises
Perform pelvic floor muscle contractions and relaxations in sync with your alarm clock's seconds, or tighten and hold for a minute before releasing. This exercise can be done anytime, anywhere, with 50-60 repetitions per session. It enhances pelvic floor elasticity, helping prevent perineal tears during delivery and postpartum urinary incontinence.
Choosing the Right Age for Childbirth
Most medical experts agree that the optimal childbearing age for women is between 25 and 29 years old. Women in this age range are more likely to have a vaginal delivery. As age increases, the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth also rise.
Optimal Nutrition During Pregnancy
Ideal weight gain during pregnancy is approximately 2 kilograms in the first trimester (up to 3 months), 5 kilograms each in the second trimester (3–6 months) and third trimester (7–9 months), totaling around 12 kilograms. Gaining over 20 kilograms throughout pregnancy may result in an oversized baby.
Prenatal Exercise
Prenatal exercise not only aids in managing pregnancy weight but also facilitates smoother delivery. This is because: 1. Exercise enhances the tension and elasticity of abdominal, back, and pelvic floor muscles, while relaxing joints and ligaments. This promotes muscle relaxation during labor, reduces resistance in the birth canal, and allows the baby to pass through more quickly.2. Prenatal exercises alleviate fatigue and stress for expectant mothers, boosting confidence in natural childbirth.