Exploring gentle caesarean section births with Dr Alex Digesu
Dr Alex Digesu walks us through what a gentle caesarean section is and shares his experience working as a consultant obstetrician.
What is a gentle C-section?
A gentle caesarean or C-section is a modified approach to traditional caesarean births that aim to make the experience more family centred, comfortable, and closer to a natural birth experience.
They involve creating a more calming and inclusive atmosphere in the operating room while facilitating immediate bonding between you and your baby.
What are the key features of a gentle C-section?
While the surgical procedure remains the same, efforts are made to minimise the medicalised feeling. For example the baby may be delivered more slowly, mimicking the gradual process of a vaginal birth.
During the birth of your baby, the screen – which prior to this moment would be pulled up to separate the surgeon from the parents - will be lowered at the moment of birth if requested, so that you can watch your baby arrive.
After the birth, your baby will be placed directly onto your chest to promote skin to skin contact which has been shown to help with bonding and breastfeeding initiation.
Birth partners are often more involved during a gentle C-section and are allowed to stay close to you during the operation. In some cases they can even participate by holding the baby shortly after birth.
There will be a delay in clamping the umbilical cord, allowing your baby to receive more of the placenta blood which is proven to be beneficial for newborn health.
What are the benefits of a gentle C-section?
Gentle C-sections offer several benefits which include enhanced bonding through immediate skin-to-skin contact between you and your baby, which can strengthen emotional bonds and support early breastfeeding.
Practices like delayed cord clamping are beneficial for the baby's health by increasing blood flow and iron levels.
During a gentle C-section, parents tend to feel more connected to the birth experience, helping to reduce feelings of detachment that sometimes accompany surgical births. The calming nature of the procedure can also positively influence your emotional and physical recovery.
Why would someone specifically opt for a gentle C-section?
A gentle C-section is ideal for people who require a C-section but still want aspects of a natural birth. This approach can help make the experience feel more intimate and less clinical.
Immediate skin to skin contact and the chance to see your baby being born can help promote early bonding which may otherwise be delayed in a traditional C-section.
Finally, if you have previously experienced distress with surgical deliveries, you may opt for this to feel more empowered and in control of the birth process.
What inspired you to train as a consultant obstetrician?
I’ve wanted to be an obstetrician for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my father was an obstetrician which greatly inspired me to study in the same field of work.
I really do enjoy what I do. Supporting women and birthing people throughout their pregnancies is a passion and I feel honoured to be part of the process as a family prepares for and welcomes their new arrival.
