Vaginal delivery is a method of childbirth in which childbirth occurs by normal means. The vast majority of women give birth by vaginal delivery, and this method provides many benefits in terms of baby and maternal health. In this article, information will be given about the advantages, process, risks and postpartum healing of vaginal delivery.

Stages

  1. The Stage of Opening: At this stage, the cervix softens and begins to open, and this opening process is very important for childbirth to take place. This stage is the longest stage of labor in most women and lasts 8-12 hours on average.
  2. The Stage of Progress: At this stage, the baby’s head passes through the birth canal and labor occurs. This stage lasts for 1-2 hours in most women.
  3. The Stage of Placenta Separation: At this stage, the birth of the baby is completed and the uterus discards the placenta. This stage usually occurs 5-30 minutes after birth.

What are the Advantages of Vaginal Delivery?

Vaginal delivery has many advantages. These are:

  1. It Is A Natural Process: Vaginal delivery is the natural birth process of women. It is a healthy process for the baby to pass through the birth canal and for the mother to give birth naturally.
  2. Shorter Healing Time: The healing time after vaginal delivery is shorter than cesarean delivery. Usually, within 2-3 weeks, mothers can return to their normal activities.
  3. Less Risk of Complications: Vaginal delivery carries a lower risk of complications than cesarean delivery. Vaginal delivery is a less risky option, especially for women of advanced age or women with chronic diseases.
  4. Strengthens the Baby’s Immune System: The fact that the baby is born through the birth canal helps strengthen the immune system.

Disadvantages of Vaginal Delivery

  1. Pain: Women feel pain during vaginal delivery, and this pain can sometimes be quite intense.
  2. Episiotomy: In some cases, incision can be performed in the perineum (the area between the entrance of the vagina and the anus) to facilitate childbirth. This incision can cause pain, infection and healing problems in women.
  3. Problems with Childbirth: During the labor process, labor may slow down or stop in some women. In this case, doctors may have to intervene.
  4. Risky Situations: In some cases, vaginal delivery can be risky. For example, conditions such as the baby being too big, the baby being in the wrong position, or the mother having a chronic health problem indicate that vaginal delivery may be risky.
  5. Damage in Pelvic Floor Muscle: Vaginal delivery can damage the pelvic floor muscles, which can lead to urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction and other pelvic problems.

As a result, vaginal delivery is a natural process and is the preferred method in most cases.