Normal Baby Delivery: Procedure, Benefits & Complications

Risks of Having a Vaginal Delivery

While normal delivery is generally safe, it does accompany certain risks and complications that may occur before or after the delivery. Let us first look at some complications that may occur before a normal delivery: 

• Uterine rupture: This is a rare but serious complication where the uterus tears during labor, leading to heavy bleeding that may harm both the mother and baby.
• Vaginal tear and tears in the perineum: During normal baby delivery, the vaginal tissues or the area between the vulva and anus (perineum) may tear. These tears can range from minor to severe and may require stitches or further medical attention.
• Fetal distress: It refers to the baby experiencing reduced oxygen supply, which can happen due to various reasons such as problems with the umbilical cord or placenta. Prompt medical intervention may be required to ensure the baby’s well-being.
• Umbilical cord prolapse: In some cases, the umbilical cord may slip through the cervix before the baby, which can compress the cord and affect the baby’s oxygen supply. Immediate medical assistance is necessary to address this situation.

Listed below are some complications a woman can face following her vaginal delivery: 

• Pelvic floor injury: The muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor may get damaged, leading to temporary or long-lasting pelvic pain.
• Pelvic organ prolapse: This happens when the bladder, uterus, and/or rectum bulge into the vagina or outside the vaginal opening due to weakened support.
• Retained placenta: In some cases, the placenta does not completely detach or expel from the uterus after normal baby delivery, necessitating medical attention to prevent complications.
• Urinary leakage: Following childbirth, women may experience involuntary urine leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or laughing.
• Postpartum hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding after delivery, known as postpartum hemorrhage, requires immediate medical intervention to control bleeding and prevent complications.
• Anesthesia-related complications: If anesthesia is administered during delivery, there may be a slight risk of complications associated with it. These risks are typically easily managed by healthcare providers.   
• It’s important to note that these issues may not be experienced by all mothers after a normal vaginal delivery. In case a mother experiences these issues, the doctors are trained to handle them and provide appropriate solutions.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care after Normal Delivery

After a normal or vaginal baby delivery, the woman is shifted to her room, where she and the baby’s health is monitored for any postpartum complications. Any complications noticed at this point are promptly resolved by the healthcare providers. A woman recovers gradually after the delivery, and the duration of recovery differs for all patients.

The mother can expect some contractions in the initial hours following a normal delivery. This happens as the body tries to expel the placenta, so the uterus can return to its original size (as it was before the pregnancy). Doctors assess the vaginal area to check for any tears and provide instructions to care for the normal delivery stitches. The mother is also asked to try nursing the baby at this stage. 

Recovery is unique to all mothers, and therefore, their experiences with recovery can differ. Typically, in the days following the delivery, women experience some postpartum bleeding which is known as lochia. This bleeding resembles menstrual bleeding and goes away gradually on its own. It can be managed with sanitary pads. Women must not use tampons or menstrual cups as the vagina is still delicate from the delivery, and insertion of any sort can prolong the healing process. In case the woman has a vaginal tear during delivery, she may also experience some discomfort in the perineal area, which is manageable through pain-relieving medications or cold compresses. 

When it comes to breastfeeding the baby, the doctor may advise the mother on how to breastfeed effectively and manage the discomfort accompanied by engorgement, i.e., a situation in which the milk is not fully removed from the breast. Increasing the frequency of breastfeeding or using breast pumps to remove extra milk from the breast may be suggested to relieve pain and tenderness. 

While mothers are typically incredibly engrossed in taking care of their children at this stage, they’re advised to also prioritize self-care during this period. They must eat a healthy diet, keep themselves hydrated, and get ample sleep as the baby sleeps to ensure they remain healthy. Exercise must be resumed gradually. 

Since childbirth can also trigger a range of emotions, all mothers should seek ways to manage their emotions. This may include talking to their partner, family members, and friends. They can also reach out to their healthcare provider to deal with the emotional implications of childbirth.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes After Normal Baby Delivery

Following a normal delivery, it is very important for the mother to take proper care of her health, chiefly by making the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes. Typically, the doctors suggest the dietary and lifestyle modifications a mother needs to make following her delivery. However, we have listed some standard guidelines that can help women remain healthy following their normal baby delivery and ensure there are no complications:

1. Make sure the diet is balanced: A new mother should focus on consuming nutritious foods to provide essential nutrients for healing and breastfeeding. They must include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in their meals. Here are some more dietary modifications a mother should make post her delivery: 

• Drink enough water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Get ample calories: While it’s crucial to eat a healthy diet, it’s also important for new mothers to ensure they’re consuming enough calories, especially if they are breastfeeding. Consulting with a healthcare professional to determine your specific calorie needs and make adjustments accordingly is recommended.
• Include more fiber in your diet: Include fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation, which is common during the postpartum period.
• Make sure the food is rich in iron: Mothers must consume iron-rich foods like lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and leafy greens to replenish iron stores and manage postpartum fatigue and anemia.
• Calcium-Rich Foods: Consume calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, fortified plant-based milk, and calcium supplements if necessary to support bone health and breastfeeding.
• Indulge in Healthy Snacking: Opt for nutritious snacks like fruits, nuts, yogurt, and whole-grain crackers to maintain energy levels and support milk production if breastfeeding.
• Increase protein intake: Protein is essential for tissue repair and milk production. Ensure adequate protein intake from healthy sources like lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy products. 
• Take Supplements as Advised: The healthcare provider may recommend certain supplements such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, or omega-3 fatty acids to fulfill the mother’s nutritional needs. It is important to follow their guidance on dosage and duration.

Let us now move on to discussing the lifestyle changes a new mother should make to ensure her well-being following a normal delivery: 

• Start exercising gradually: Start with gentle exercises, like walking or postnatal yoga, after getting approval from your healthcare provider. Gradually increase intensity and duration as strength and stamina are regained. Exercise promotes physical and mental well-being.
• Don’t rush into losing weight: Mothers who have gained weight during pregnancy should focus on gradual and healthy weight loss rather than resorting to drastic measures. They must engage in gentle exercises and maintain a balanced diet to shed pounds gradually while supporting their recovery.
• Take proper rest:  It is suggested that new mothers should get enough rest and sleep whenever possible. Their body needs time to heal and recover from childbirth. They must take short naps, rest as much as they can, and take help with daily tasks.
• Do some pelvic floor exercises: Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improve bladder control, and speed up healing.

Normal Delivery Cost in India

The cost of a normal delivery in India can vary depending on factors such as the city, hospital choice, and additional facilities. On average, it can range from Rs.15,000 to Rs.40,000 However, this is just a general estimate, and the actual cost can vary for each patient. To get an accurate cost estimate, it is recommended to contact the healthcare provider directly. They will provide you with the specific cost of treatment, including a detailed breakdown. Factors such as the location of the delivery, the hospital chosen, and any additional services required can impact the overall cost. By reaching out to the healthcare provider, patients can get a clear understanding of the expenses involved and make informed decisions about their maternity care.

Is Normal Vaginal Delivery Covered Under Insurance?

Yes. In India, insurance providers in India cover pregnancy-related expenses in their health insurance policies. Several insurance companies offer specially curated maternity insurance plans that help women and couples manage their maternity-related expenses. 

Maternity insurance covers all the expenses associated with maternity and childbirth but to a certain period. Some patients buy it as a standalone policy, while others include it as an add-on insurance in their existing policy. This can be done by paying an extra premium. It is important to note that this insurance may not be available if the woman is already pregnant and generally has a waiting period of 3 to 4 years. 

Maternity insurance offers coverage for both normal and cesarean-section deliveries. Certain insurance providers also cover the cost of pregnancy termination due to complications under their maternity policies, in addition to pre and post-natal expenses and newly born baby coverage. However, the coverage amount, as well as the duration for which coverage is provided, may differ. To obtain information on maternity coverage, the patients must reach out to their insurance providers.

Questions to Ask the Gynecologist About Vaginal Delivery

Any pregnant woman scheduled for a normal vaginal delivery must ask the doctor some important questions. It is important to get some important questions addressed before the delivery to ensure preparedness. Listed below are some important questions patients must ask the gynecologist before normal delivery: 

• Is vaginal delivery suitable for me?
• Why is vaginal delivery the best option for me?
• What benefits does vaginal delivery have compared to other methods of delivery such as c-section?
• What will happen during the delivery process?
• How can I prepare for my vaginal delivery? 
• What does labor pain feel like? 
• How can I manage pain associated with normal vaginal delivery? 
• What are the various stages of vaginal delivery?
• How long does normal delivery take? 
• What complications can occur before, during, or after a vaginal delivery?
• How will you monitor the well-being of both me and my baby during labor and delivery?
• What postpartum care and support will be provided following a vaginal delivery?
• Are there any specific warning signs or symptoms I should watch out for after a vaginal delivery?
• Will normal delivery be safe for my child?