A gentle or natural cesarean, or gentle c-section is an emerging trend in childbirth because of its benefits for both mother and baby.
The procedure, also known as natural cesarean, is less like an abdominal surgery, and more like a natural way of giving birth.
Delivery is still by cesarean method, and surgery is still required. But women who give birth by gentle c-section report feeling more satisfied upon giving birth. The couple can witness the baby being born and have the baby brought close to the mother immediately after birth. The experience is somewhat similar to vaginal birth.
What is the difference between a traditional and a gentle c-section?
A gentle c-section checklist for parents interested in the procedure includes checking in with your hospital if they allow it, and consulting with your doctor.
Let this gentle c-section checklist guide you. A gentle c-section:
Gives you a better view of childbirth
You can ask the nurses to prop you up a bit so you can see what is happening through a clear plastic curtain.
Or you can ask that the curtain be lowered earlier and further down to see what is going on. Having a clear view of the birth should be on your gentle c-section checklist. The medical team also cleans up the baby right there and then as the surgery continues.
Delivery is slower
Your baby will emerge from your uterine incision more slowly. This will allow time to equalize with that of the environment and the lungs to be cleared of fluid.
Skin-to-skin contact happens sooner
You will find your baby, swathed in a warm towel, on your chest right after being born. This promotes early breastfeeding. Your newborn may even be with you during the remaining moments of surgery, and go with you to the recovery room. Having immediate skin contact with your baby should be part of your gentle c-section checklist.
Less equipment restrictions
Your hands are free from straps. The IV line, blood pressure cuff and oximeter are in your non-dominant hand so you can hold your newborn well. Electrocardiogram (EKG) leads (which checks your heartbeat during the operation) are on your back or lower chest. It is not on your upper chest, so you can move more freely.
Reduced sedation
Because a gentle c-section involves less sedation, it allows the mother to be more alert. This allows them to look after the baby, through skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding soon the procedure.
Less distractions
A gentle c-section can involve less lighting, reduced noise, or your choice of background music for easier childbirth. Include what song you’d like to be listening to as part of your gentle c-section checklist.
Immediate clean-up
The baby is cleaned up right there and then while the rest of the procedure is carried out.
Gentle C-Section Checklist: What are the benefits?
This gentle c-section checklist of advantages includes:
- The feeling of greater participation in childbirth. Many women who experience the usual c-section feel helpless and out-of-touch when giving birth. Not so in a gentle c-section, where interaction between mother and child is the key.
- Stronger bond with your newborn. The usual c-section keeps you from holding your baby until you reach the recovery room. You may still be sedated when lying next to your baby. A gentle c-section allows you to hold and soothe the baby soon after delivery.
- Higher chances of a more satisfying birth experience. Research shows that moms who had traditional c-sections are less happy with the experience than those who had gentle c-sections. A study of 205 women in Germany shows a spike in satisfaction after they went through gentle c-section.
- A healthier baby. A study shows that immediate skin-to-skin contact aids in controlling the baby’s temperature and heart rate. It also promotes bonding and effective breastfeeding.
- Happier mom. Your childbirth experience affects your postpartum mindset. Therefore a gentle c-section, which can be more fulfilling to a mom, can prevent postpartum depression.
How do I ask for a gentle c-section?
Your gentle c-section checklist of things to do should include:
- A look into hospital facilities. Does the operating room allow for a gentle c-section
- A talk with your obstetrician and attending nurse. Ask them about the conditions required in a gentle c-section weeks ahead of the surgery.
