Childbirth is a deeply personal journey, yet it is often clouded by myths, opinions, and societal pressure that create confusion and unnecessary fear around the ‘right’ way to give birth. Advice from relatives, social media, and popular narratives can make parents anxious, especially when comparing normal delivery and C-section, even though vaginal birth while ideal in many uncomplicated pregnancies, is not always the safest option for every woman.
Dr Hrishikesh Pai, Founder & Medical Director, Bloom IVF Group, says, “A C-section is not a failure; in situations such as fetal distress, breech presentation, placenta-related complications, multiple pregnancies, or certain maternal health conditions, it can be a lifesaving medical decision. With modern healthcare, recovery after a C-section is generally safe and manageable, and most women go on to have healthy future pregnancies. At the same time, vaginal birth, though natural, can also involve challenges such as tears, pelvic floor issues, or prolonged discomfort, reminding us that no method of childbirth is completely risk-free.”
What matters most is wellbeing
He explains, there is no single ‘right way’ to give birth the safest choice depends on the mother’s health, the baby’s condition, and how labour progresses. Ultimately, what matters most is wellbeing: a healthy mother, a healthy baby, informed decision-making, and trust between doctor and patient. When medical facts are separated from pregnancy myths, women feel more confident and supported, and a successful birth is defined not by the method of delivery, but by the safety, health, and dignity of both mother and child.
Every pregnancy and labour is unique
Dr Moksha Prasuna, Obstetrics & Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine, says, “C-section versus vaginal birth should never be framed as a competition or a judgment of a mother’s strength. Every pregnancy and labour is unique, and the safest mode of delivery depends on medical facts, not social pressure or myths. While vaginal birth may be ideal in many uncomplicated cases, a C-section can be equally vital and lifesaving in others. What truly defines a successful birth is not the method, but the outcome, a healthy mother, a healthy baby, informed choices, and compassionate medical care. When fear is replaced with evidence and trust, parents can approach childbirth with confidence rather than comparison.”
At its core, childbirth is not a test of endurance or a measure of strength, but a medical journey guided by what is safest for both mother and baby. When families move beyond comparisons and trust evidence-based care, they empower themselves to embrace birth in whatever form it unfolds. A positive birth story is not defined by labels like ‘normal’ or ‘surgical,’ but by healthy outcomes, respectful care, and the confidence that every decision was made with compassion and medical wisdom.
(This article is based on information available in the public domain and on input provided by experts consulted.)
