How to Increase Your Chances of Having a Vaginal Birth
There are many benefits to having a vaginal delivery. Women who have a vaginal delivery have a quicker and easier recovery. Since the body naturally adjusts to labor, it is often the best option.
There may be medical reasons or emergencies where a cesarean birth (C-section) is needed. In these cases, a C-section may be the safest choice for you and your baby. If there isn’t a medical reason to have a C-section, it’s best to have your baby through a vaginal birth.
Your provider can help if you have questions about having a C-section. You should avoid C-sections when they are not medically needed, such as to avoid scheduling conflicts.
Times You May Need a C-Section
If you are at risk for complications, your obstetrics (OB) provider may suggest a C-section. This may be safer for you and your baby. If your OB recommends a C-section, be sure to ask questions and discuss your concerns. See the sidebar for a list of questions to ask.
If there is a medical reason to have a C-section, your OB will recommend scheduling the surgery. Talk to your OB about waiting until at least 39 weeks of pregnancy to schedule the C-section. This gives your baby the time they need to grow and develop before birth. Also be sure to ask if vaginal birth may be possible in future pregnancies.
To learn why 39 weeks may be best for your baby, visit the March of Dimes website.
Recovery from a C-Section
A C-section is a major surgery. As a result, the recovery from a C-section takes longer than the recovery from a vaginal birth. The hospital stay after a C-section is longer as well.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
There are a few questions you can ask your provider before having a test, treatment, or procedure to help you decide whether to get it.
- Do I really need this test or procedure?
- What are the risks and side effects?
- Are there simpler, safer options?
- What happens if I don’t do anything?
Source: Choosing Wisely
Secure emails
We’ve begun using new software for our secure emails.
During your first time sending or receiving an email with this system you’ll need to create an account with a new password. You'll use this information to log in each time you want to send a secure email. You'll also use it to log in when you receive a secure email from HUSKY Health. When creating your new account, you’ll receive an email from Proofpoint. Enter the code from the email in the field provided to complete your registration.
When sending your email, address it to member@chnct.org. You can ask questions about your HUSKY Health coverage, such as what benefits are available. You can also find out how to a get a new blue and white HUSKY Health member ID card.
Address your email to websupport@chnct.org for help with:
- Resetting your password
- Signing in to your account
- Viewing your HUSKY Health member ID card
This portion of the HUSKY Health website is managed by Community Health Network of Connecticut, Inc.®, the State of Connecticut’s Medical Administrative Services Organization for the HUSKY Health Program. For the general HUSKY Health website gateway, please visit portal.ct.gov/husky. HUSKY Health includes Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and is administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services.