A Choice Between Unassisted Natural Childbirth Or Medical Childbirth – Which Will You Choose?

November 13, 2009

By system

The age-old arguments about unassisted childbirth or medical childbirth continues to rage on. The medical profession argues that giving birth in a hospital is safer in case a medical problem arises during the process, while those who support unassisted natural childbirth declare that most problems occur due to medical intervention. So who is right and who is wrong? The answer would be neither one. It should be up to the mom-to-be what method she chooses to bring her baby into the world.

Many believe any sort of chemical pain relief, or use of surgical intervention, has the potential to harm both baby and mother. Others simply want to be in control of their own body during the birth process. Some moms are perfectly happy to hand the whole process over to their paediatrician and that’s perfectly ok. The bottom line is each of us has to do what’s right for us, not harassed into a situation we may end up regretting later on.

So what is an unassisted natural childbirth? Can a mom who has for instance an epidural or pain killing drugs claim to have given birth naturally? What does it really matter?

The focus should be making sure you’re able to have your baby safely, and without having more pain that you’re able to handle. Everyone is different – some have easy births, others can tolerate high levels of pain, and still others are terrified of the entire birthing process. What’s most important is that you have no sense of guilt if you had hoped to have your baby naturally, but found you actually needed some pain relief while in the process. Remember what’s most important – bringing your baby into this world safe and sound, and keeping yourself in good enough shape to be able to take care of your baby when you arrive home.

If you have chosen an unassisted birth, you may want to take some natural childbirth classes to help you cope with labor especially if you are not planning on using pain relief such as an epidural. Opt for classes held outside of the hospital system as many hospitals do not support natural childbirth. The more popular classes are the ones that teach the Bradley Method or Hypnobirthing.

If you have a supportive partner, get them involved in the process. If you are doing this solo, think about hiring a doula to provide support emotionally as well as physically through the birthing process.

There’s also the option of birthing centers for mothers who are healthy, and don’t believe they’ll need any medical assistance. Unassisted natural childbirth is definitely encouraged at these centers, but it’s vital not to put your health, or your child’s, at any risk just to have a natural birth. Remember, if you have any doubts about any of this, do not feel shameful about choosing a medical childbirth. It’s always your decision – either way.

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