Cesarean Section Alternatives -- Medical Conditions
The only alternative to a cesarean section is a vaginal delivery, which can be done with the help of either forceps or vacuum, if necessary. With your condition, there are risks no matter how your baby is delivered. Let's discuss the risks of having a vaginal delivery.
Women who have uncontrollably high blood pressure during pregnancy are more likely to need a cesarean delivery. Sometimes, labor would place too much physical stress on the mother and baby. If the physician thinks labor is too risky, he or she may think that a cesarean section is a safer option.
Women with diabetes are more likely to have problems with uncontrollable high blood pressure during pregnancy, and may need a cesarean delivery for the same reasons we just mentioned.
Other medical conditions that may cause the need for a c-section are certain contagious diseases that can be passed on to the baby during a vaginal delivery. An example of this is the virus that causes genital herpes. If the mother has an open herpes sore around the birth canal when she goes into labor, the virus can be passed onto the baby during a vaginal delivery. In this case, cesarean delivery is usually recommended.
So the decision to have or not have a c-section rests with you, but it is very important for you to discuss your risks and your situation with your doctor when making this decision.
