Mother and Baby Friendly Cesarean

Cesarean section is a vital delivery method for the health of both mother and baby when medically necessary. In cases where natural birth is not medically possible, the baby should be delivered via cesarean section.

Performing a cesarean birth under mother and baby-friendly conditions outside of emergencies is very important for the bonding process between mother and baby. So what is a mother and baby friendly cesarean? It refers to a type of cesarean where labor begins spontaneously, the mother and baby are brought together as soon as possible—just like in a natural birth—and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact is maintained. If the father also joins the operation and participates in the process, it is called a mother-father-baby friendly cesarean.

What Are the Stages of a Mother and Baby Friendly Cesarean?

During the mother and baby friendly cesarean process, the mother-to-be is first given all the information in detail. Summarizing the situation in a way she can understand lays the foundation for good communication. Trust is one of the most important elements, as it supports the mother's psychological well-being during birth. The cesarean process must be something the mother-to-be feels at peace with.

The mother-to-be should know she did her best and feel confident in herself. She should be supported to respect the arrival of her baby and accept her baby unconditionally. Attending childbirth preparation classes with her partner is very helpful for completing this process with positive feelings.

• In a mother and baby friendly cesarean, spinal or epidural anesthesia is preferred instead of general anesthesia so that the mother is awake. However, if there is a medical condition that prevents this, general anesthesia must be used. The operating room lights are dimmed to avoid disturbing the baby, and the room temperature is adjusted to prevent the baby from losing heat.
• After the baby is born, the umbilical cord is not cut immediately in a mother and baby friendly cesarean. A few minutes are allowed so that the baby can receive additional blood from the placenta.
• Once the cord is cut and the baby is evaluated as healthy, they are placed immediately on the mother’s chest. Contact between mother and baby is established immediately and supported for as long as possible. This creates the foundation for secure bonding during this special moment of birth.
• If desired, the father may also accompany this entire process. After the birth, a calm and peaceful environment is provided where the mother and father can rest. The process concludes as a mother-father-baby friendly cesarean.

What Makes a Mother and Baby Friendly Cesarean Different?

In the traditional perception of cesarean birth in society, the mother is put under general anesthesia and the baby is delivered through an incision in the abdomen. This is often due to fear of childbirth or personal preference.

However, birth is a natural process. If the mother’s medical condition allows, natural vaginal birth should always be preferred. If not, cesarean delivery can and should be performed as necessary.

In a mother and baby friendly cesarean, the focus is still on establishing the bond between mother and baby. It is crucial to work with a professional team who adopts this approach, communicates clearly and healthily, and understands that childbirth is one of life’s most special moments. It is equally important to give birth in a hospital that embraces the principles of a mother and baby friendly cesarean.

Attending childbirth preparation classes during pregnancy is recommended so that you can stay in the role of mother and father and complete the process free of fear and with positive emotions.

Istanbul Obstetrician & Gynecologist