Gentle or Mother Friendly Cesarean Section
Gentle C-section Q & A
What is a gentle C-section (mother friendly C-Section)?
You may not intend to have a C-section, but a multitude of conditions can make vaginal birth difficult, or even life-threatening. In the event you need to have a C-section, you don’t have to let go of the childbirth you envisioned.
Gentle C-sections, also known as family-centered C-sections, present a revolutionary shift in obstetrics that strives to recreate the experience of natural vaginal childbirth in situations that require surgery.
As both a mother and experienced OB/GYN, Dr. Morales understands the significance of the moments surrounding the birth of your child. That’s why she happily discusses your particular desires at length to make sure your gentle C-section is a cherished memory for you to treasure.
How is a gentle C-section different from a traditional C-section?
Don’t let the name fool you; a gentle C-section still involves surgery. However, gentle C-sections aim to mimic the nurturing effects of natural childbirth in several ways.
During a traditional C-section, you lie on your back with your arms strapped to the operating table. A hospital screen blocks your view of the incision and birth of your child.
Afterward, the doctors immediately whisk your baby away for pediatric care. With some women, this situation creates unpleasant feelings of separation and detachment.
A gentle C-section allows you to watch your child being born. You can request a clear screen, or have the screen lowered. Your arms aren’t tied down, and you may be propped up to see better. You will get to see the moment your baby is born.
Gentle C-sections may also involve delivering your baby more slowly, similar to a vaginal birth. The EKG machine is attached to your back and sides instead of your chest so that you can hold your newborn right away for immediate skin-to-skin contact. You will be the first person to hold or hug your baby.
We also safely modify the protocols to allow for delayed cord clamping if the baby is doing well and dad can cut the cord. You can play a soothing song during the birth of your baby. If your baby transitions well, you can continue to cuddle with the helpful hands of the nurses while we finish up during the closure. Your baby returns to you and recovers right along side you, never an unnecessary moment apart. You get to experience some of the highlights that women get to have during a vaginal birth but at the time of an indicated cesarean section. You get to participate in the "birth" process and not just have a surgery. Does this sound good for you?
Dr. Quezada happily discusses your options for a gentle C-section with you before delivery. This way, he knows what you want ahead of time and is prepared in the event of an unexpected C-section.
What are the benefits of a gentle C-section?
Gentle C-sections offer many benefits over traditional C-sections, such as:
- Stronger bonding, more stable vital signs for the baby, and more successful breastfeeding with immediate skin-to-skin contact
- Decreased risk of postpartum depression
- More emotional gratification
- Better memories of childbirth
If you’re looking for an OB/GYN who offers gentle, or family-centered C-sections, call Dr. Quezada’ s office or book online today.