Giving birth at any time by any method carries a risk of causing some harm to both mothers and their babies. Careful, safe modern Obstetric and Midwifery care use many strategies to minimise these risks as far as possible.
In women with a “low risk pregnancy”, when possible, unassisted, or “normal” vaginal delivery, may well be the lowest risk option (unless there is a reason to make Caesarean Section safer). However, normal vaginal birth is not always possible for various reasons. And even normal vaginal delivery carries a risk of causing damage to the maternal pelvic floor and subsequent problems such as urinary incontinence or pain – and also a risk of tearing the skin and deeper tissues of the perineum which requires suturing.
Sometimes in the second stage of labour assistance with either Forceps or the Ventouse (vacuum device) is necessary; this may well also require the use of an Episiotomy (a “cut”).
Also, Caesarean Section carries some risks of complications – but in healthy women in Australia the risks are very low.
Please find the following link to the information page Caesarean Section and Operative Vaginal Delivery about these issues. Please read this now, BEFORE you are in labour, so that you understand what may be involved in your care during labour. If you have any questions about any of this please discuss these with Dr O’Callaghan before you are in labour if possible.
If you wish to use a formal written “Birth Plan” please show this to Dr O’Callaghan at your next antenatal visit – again, so that this can be discussed before you are in labour.