Obstetrics and Gynaecology · Jaipur Hospital
Childbirth and Delivery in Jaipur
You want a safe birth with clear choices. We assess you, explain options, and give a plan.
- Serving Jaipur since 1991 (35 years)
- NABH accredited
- 24×7 emergency & ICU
- Cashless: RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS + 22 insurers
- Operation time
- Vaginal 4 to 12 hoursC-section 45 to 60 minutes
- Anaesthesia
- Epidural analgesia or spinal anaesthesia
- Recovery
- Vaginal 2 to 6 weeksC-section 6 to 8 weeks
- Price
- ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 vaginal₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000 caesareantypical range in India; ask us for an estimate
Birth feels uncertain
You do not know which birth method is right for you or what to expect
Labour length, pain relief choices, and possible surgery create worry. You need clear information and a team ready for any situation.
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Long labour pain
Vaginal birth can take 4 to 12 hours. You may worry about coping with contractions.
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Sudden surgery
An emergency caesarean can be needed quickly if the baby shows distress.
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Recovery gap
C-section recovery takes 6 to 8 weeks. Vaginal birth takes 2 to 6 weeks.
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Cost surprise
Typical vaginal delivery costs ₹40,000 to ₹80,000; caesarean ₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000.
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Past caesarean
You may wonder if a vaginal birth after caesarean is possible for you.
Continuous support during labour is linked to more spontaneous vaginal births and fewer caesareans.
Why Jaipur Hospital
You worry about pain, an unplanned operation, weeks off your feet, and the bill.
Your care plan
Your first steps with us
- 1 Call or visit OPD for antenatal booking
- 2 Get examined, review scans, discuss birth plan
- 3 Admit for labour or scheduled caesarean
- 4 Deliver with 24x7 epidural, recover, go home
How delivery is done
Your surgeon chooses the method based on your health, the baby's position, and labour progress. Options include spontaneous vaginal birth, instrumental help, or caesarean section.
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Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery
Active management of the third stage with oxytocin to deliver the placenta.
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Instrumental Delivery
Vacuum or forceps used for prolonged second stage or foetal distress.
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Lower Segment Caesarean Section
Pfannenstiel incision with regional anaesthesia; baby delivered through abdominal and uterine cuts.
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Trial of Labour After Caesarean
TOLAC with continuous monitoring for eligible women who had a previous caesarean.
Why patients trust us
- 1991 Serving Jaipur for 35 years
- NABH Accredited hospital
- 3 Obstetrics and Gynaecology consultants
- 24×7 Emergency, ICU and ambulance
- 25 Cashless schemes and insurers
What research shows about birth support and outcomes
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More spontaneous vaginal births
Women with continuous labour support were more likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth.
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Fewer caesarean births
Continuous support reduced the likelihood of caesarean birth across studied groups.
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Shorter labour duration
Labours were shorter for women who received continuous support during childbirth.
If it is left untreated
Delaying care when labour stalls or the baby is distressed can lead to emergency surgery, infection, heavy bleeding, or harm to the baby.
Life after delivery
Most mothers recover at home with their baby. Follow-up checks ensure healing and feeding are on track.
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Home with baby
Most women go home 1 to 2 nights after vaginal birth or 3 to 4 nights after caesarean.
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Feeding support
Early breastfeeding rates can be lower after caesarean, but support helps most mothers continue.
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Gradual return
Full recovery takes 2 to 6 weeks for vaginal birth and 6 to 8 weeks for caesarean.
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Future pregnancies
Most women with a past caesarean can safely have a vaginal birth next time.
Frequently asked questions
Questions patients ask about childbirth and delivery
Which problems are assessed under childbirth and delivery?
In short
Jaipur Hospital assesses all aspects of childbirth and delivery. This includes normal vaginal delivery, assisted delivery with vacuum or forceps, and caesarean section. The team evaluates maternal health, foetal wellbeing, labour progress, and any medical conditions that may affect the birth plan. Every pregnancy is reviewed for risk factors to ensure the safest approach for mother and baby.
In detail
The assessment covers maternal conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, placenta praevia, and previous caesarean scars. Foetal concerns include breech presentation, growth restriction, and signs of distress during labour.
Labour progress is monitored for prolonged first or second stage, failure to progress, or excessive bleeding. Evidence shows continuous support during labour reduces caesarean rates and improves spontaneous vaginal birth rates. The team also discusses birth preferences, including planned caesarean for non-medical reasons after counselling on risks and benefits.
A common belief
Many people think childbirth assessment is only about the baby's position.
What actually happens
In reality, it covers maternal blood pressure, diabetes, placenta location, previous scars, foetal growth, distress signs, and labour duration. Evidence shows continuous support lowers caesarean rates and improves vaginal birth chances.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
You will have routine antenatal visits where your obstetrician checks blood pressure, foetal growth, and position. As your due date nears, the team will confirm the birth plan and discuss pain relief options including 24x7 epidural. If you have a previous caesarean, a trial of labour after caesarean may be offered with continuous monitoring.
How will the doctor decide which tests my child needs?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, your obstetrician selects tests based on your gestation, medical history, risk factors, and any symptoms. Routine tests are offered to all pregnant women at specific weeks. Additional tests are ordered if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, previous caesarean, or if the baby shows growth concerns on ultrasound.
In detail
Standard tests include booking bloods at 8 to 12 weeks, nuchal translucency scan at 11 to 14 weeks, anomaly scan at 18 to 20 weeks, glucose tolerance test at 24 to 28 weeks, and growth scans in the third trimester if indicated.
If you have a previous caesarean, the scar thickness may be assessed. For high blood pressure, blood tests for liver and kidney function are added. Evidence shows targeted testing based on risk factors avoids unnecessary interventions while detecting problems early. The in-house laboratory provides 24-hour results for urgent tests.
A common belief
Some think every pregnant woman gets the same tests.
What actually happens
But a woman with a previous caesarean may need scar assessment. Someone with high blood pressure needs kidney and liver checks. Growth scans are added if the baby measures small. Evidence supports targeted testing to find problems early without over-testing. The hospital's lab gives 24-hour results.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your doctor will explain each test, why it is needed, and when to have it. Most tests are done at the hospital's diagnostic centre. Results are reviewed at your next visit or sooner if urgent. You can ask about any test you are unsure about. Keep a file of all reports for easy reference.
How soon should my baby expect improvement after the chosen delivery method?
In short
After birth at Jaipur Hospital, your baby will be assessed immediately by the paediatric team. Most babies born by vaginal delivery or caesarean section transition well and show normal breathing, colour, and activity within minutes. If any concerns arise, the neonatal unit is available 24×7 for observation and care.
In detail
For vaginal delivery, babies usually cry and breathe on their own right after birth. For caesarean section, especially under regional anaesthesia, the baby may take a few extra minutes to establish regular breathing but is monitored closely.
Evidence notes temporary breathing difficulties can occur in babies born by caesarean. The paediatrician checks the Apgar score at one and five minutes. If the baby is well, skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding are encouraged within the first hour.
For babies needing support, the in-house NICU provides immediate care. Recovery for the mother differs: vaginal delivery recovery is typically two to six weeks, while caesarean recovery is six to eight weeks.
A common belief
Some think C-section babies always have problems.
What actually happens
Evidence shows temporary breathing difficulties are slightly more common after C-section, but the team is ready and most babies recover quickly with observation. The key difference is the mother's recovery time, not the baby's long-term health.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
You will stay in hospital for one to two nights after vaginal delivery or three to four nights after caesarean. The paediatric team will review your baby daily before discharge. Follow-up visits are scheduled for immunisation and growth checks. If you notice feeding difficulties, unusual drowsiness, or breathing changes after going home, contact the hospital immediately.
How will the team decide which delivery method is safest for me?
In short
The obstetric team at Jaipur Hospital decides the safest delivery method by continuously monitoring you and your baby during pregnancy and labour. Factors include your medical history, previous deliveries, baby's position, placental location, maternal blood pressure, foetal heart rate patterns, and labour progress. The decision is made jointly with you after explaining benefits and risks.
In detail
Evidence shows the team discusses benefits and risks of caesarean compared with vaginal birth when there is time to plan. If you request a caesarean without medical reasons, the doctor explains overall benefits and risks.
If you still prefer caesarean after discussion, a planned caesarean is offered. For trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC), continuous monitoring is used for eligible women. Indications for caesarean include breech position, placenta praevia, pre-eclampsia, infections, foetal distress, and failure to progress.
Instrumental delivery with vacuum or forceps may be tried before caesarean for prolonged second stage. The surgical team uses lower segment caesarean section with Pfannenstiel incision and regional anaesthesia preferred. The final plan prioritises safety for both mother and baby.
A common belief
Some believe the doctor decides alone or that a previous C-section means you must have another.
What actually happens
Evidence shows most women with a previous C-section can safely attempt vaginal birth (VBAC) with monitoring. If you want a C-section without medical reason, the team still discusses risks and supports your informed choice.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your antenatal visits build the birth plan. At each visit, the doctor reviews scan reports, blood tests, and your preferences. During labour, the team assesses progress hourly. If concerns arise, the doctor explains the reason for any change in plan. You can ask questions at any time.
How can my child decide whether to seek advice about normal delivery?
In short
Your child can seek advice about normal delivery by booking an antenatal consultation at Jaipur Hospital. During the visit, the obstetrician will review her health, pregnancy history, and any risk factors. She will receive clear information about the benefits of vaginal birth, the typical labour process, and when a caesarean might be recommended instead.
In detail
Evidence indicates that vaginal births are usually safer for mother and baby when there are no medical complications. Continuous support during labour increases the chance of a spontaneous vaginal birth and reduces negative birth experiences.
The doctor will explain the stages of labour, options for pain relief including 24x7 epidural analgesia, and the role of active management of the third stage with oxytocin.
If your child has had a previous caesarean, the team will discuss trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC) and the criteria for a safe vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC). The decision is always shared, based on her individual situation.
A common belief
Some families assume normal delivery is automatic or that a previous caesarean rules it out.
What actually happens
In reality, many women with a past caesarean can safely attempt a vaginal birth after proper assessment.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Encourage your child to write down her questions before the appointment. She can ask about pain relief, birth positions, and who can stay with her during labour. The hospital supports having a birth companion. After the consultation, she will have a clearer picture of what to expect.
How could this condition or its treatment affect future pregnancy?
In short
The mode of delivery can affect future pregnancies. After a caesarean section at Jaipur Hospital, there is a scar on the uterus. Evidence shows this increases the risk of placenta previa, miscarriage, and subfertility in later pregnancies. Vaginal birth may affect pelvic floor function, but caesarean carries surgical risks for future pregnancies.
In detail
A caesarean section is major surgery. The uterine scar can lead to abnormal placental attachment in future pregnancies, such as placenta accreta spectrum. Studies report increased odds of miscarriage and placenta previa after caesarean compared to vaginal delivery. There is also an association with subfertility.
However, most women who have had a caesarean can safely have a vaginal birth next time (VBAC) if they meet certain criteria. The decision for a repeat caesarean or trial of labour is made after reviewing the previous surgery details and current pregnancy.
A common belief
Many assume a caesarean means all future babies must be delivered by caesarean.
What actually happens
Evidence shows VBAC is safe for many women, but the scar does change the risk profile for the next pregnancy.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Your doctor will discuss these risks during antenatal visits. If you have had a previous caesarean, bring the operation notes if possible. The team will assess eligibility for VBAC and explain monitoring during labour. For vaginal birth, pelvic floor exercises are recommended.
Which symptoms should prompt my child to see a specialist?
In short
During pregnancy and childbirth, certain symptoms need a specialist review at Jaipur Hospital. These include severe headache, visual disturbances, sudden swelling of the face or hands, reduced foetal movements, vaginal bleeding, regular painful contractions before 37 weeks, leaking fluid, and fever. Any of these signs should be reported to your obstetrician promptly for assessment.
In detail
Severe headache with visual changes may indicate pre-eclampsia, which can require urgent delivery. Reduced foetal movements after 28 weeks need immediate monitoring of the baby's heart rate. Vaginal bleeding could signal placenta praevia or abruption.
Preterm contractions before 37 weeks may need medication to delay labour. Leaking fluid suggests membranes have ruptured, increasing infection risk. Fever in labour may indicate chorioamnionitis. Evidence shows timely intervention for these symptoms improves outcomes for mother and baby.
A common belief
Some women wait for their next appointment hoping symptoms will pass.
What actually happens
But headache with vision changes can mean pre-eclampsia. Reduced movements after 28 weeks need immediate heart rate monitoring. Bleeding may be placenta praevia. Preterm contractions need medication to protect the baby. Early action changes outcomes.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact the hospital immediately or attend the 24x7 emergency department. Do not wait for a routine appointment. The team will assess you and the baby, and may recommend admission, monitoring, or delivery depending on the findings. Keep your antenatal card and any recent reports handy.
How will the results change my child's care plan?
In short
At Jaipur Hospital, test results directly shape your antenatal and delivery plan. Normal results mean routine care continues. Abnormal results may lead to more frequent visits, medication, specialist referral, early delivery, or a change from vaginal birth to caesarean section. Each result is discussed with you so you understand the implications for you and your baby.
In detail
For example, if glucose tolerance test shows gestational diabetes, you will see a dietician, start blood sugar monitoring, and may need insulin. If anomaly scan shows a foetal issue, you will be referred to a foetal medicine specialist.
Low haemoglobin leads to iron therapy or transfusion. Placenta praevia on scan means planned caesarean. Previous caesarean with thin scar may favour repeat caesarean over trial of labour. Evidence shows that acting on test results reduces complications. The multidisciplinary team including anaesthesia, paediatrics, and ICU coordinates care for high-risk situations.
A common belief
Some assume abnormal results just mean more worry.
What actually happens
But they trigger specific actions: gestational diabetes gets diet and insulin plans. Low placenta means planned caesarean. Thin caesarean scar may mean repeat caesarean instead of trial of labour. The team acts on evidence to reduce complications. You are part of every decision.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
You will receive results at your next visit or by phone if urgent. The doctor explains what the numbers mean and what happens next. You can ask questions and discuss options. Your birth plan may be updated. If admission or early delivery is needed, the hospital has 24x7 emergency, modular operation theatres, and NICU.
What should I do if my baby's symptoms persist or worsen after delivery?
In short
If your baby shows any worrying signs after discharge from Jaipur Hospital, seek medical attention immediately. Warning signs include difficulty breathing, bluish lips or skin, poor feeding, excessive drowsiness, high fever, or persistent vomiting. The 24×7 emergency department and ambulance service are available for urgent care.
In detail
After delivery, the paediatric team examines your baby before discharge and gives guidance on normal newborn behaviour. Evidence shows most babies transition well, but complications such as infection, jaundice, or feeding issues can develop in the first days.
If your baby was born by caesarean, temporary breathing difficulties may be monitored longer. At home, watch for fewer wet nappies, green vomit, a sunken fontanelle, or a rash that does not fade under pressure. Trust your instinct; if something feels wrong, do not wait. The hospital's in-house diagnostic laboratory and imaging support rapid assessment. Early intervention prevents serious illness.
A common belief
Parents often wait to see if symptoms improve.
What actually happens
With newborns, delay can be dangerous. The paediatric team gives a checklist at discharge, but if anything feels off, trust your instinct and seek care immediately. The in-house lab and NICU allow fast diagnosis and treatment.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
Keep the discharge summary and follow-up appointment details handy. For urgent concerns, call the emergency number or bring your baby to the 24×7 emergency department. An attendant should accompany you. The paediatric OPD runs daily for non-urgent reviews.
What pain relief options are available during labour at Jaipur Hospital?
In short
Jaipur Hospital offers several pain relief options during labour. These include epidural analgesia available 24×7, spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section, and other methods such as breathing techniques, movement, and intravenous medication if needed. The anaesthesia team is on-site round the clock to provide epidural when you request it.
In detail
Evidence shows most caesareans are carried out under spinal or epidural anaesthetic. A spinal or epidural means you are awake but the lower body is numbed so you do not feel pain.
Occasionally, general anaesthetic may be used if the baby needs to be delivered very quickly. For vaginal labour, epidural analgesia is the most effective medical pain relief and can be given at any stage once labour is established.
The protocol includes active management of the third stage with oxytocin. Non-medical options such as breathing exercises, warm showers, and continuous support from a companion are also encouraged. Studies show continuous support reduces the likelihood of caesarean and improves birth experience. The anaesthetist will discuss the procedure, benefits, and possible side effects before placing the epidural.
A common belief
Some think epidural is not available at night or that it always leads to C-section.
What actually happens
Evidence shows continuous support and epidural do not increase C-section risk when used appropriately. The team offers epidural at any hour once labour is established. You stay awake and comfortable.
Your next step at Jaipur Hospital
You can discuss pain relief preferences during antenatal visits and include them in your birth plan. When labour starts, inform the nurse or doctor if you want an epidural. The anaesthetist will assess you and place it if suitable.
After delivery, pain relief continues with oral medication as needed. The hospital stay is typically one to two nights for vaginal delivery and three to four nights for caesarean.
FAQ library
Questions and answers about childbirth and delivery
When you contact us
Get your birth plan and cost estimate
Contact Jaipur Hospital for an OPD consultation, scan review, plain-language options, a cost estimate, cashless help, and follow-up care.
- A consultation with a gynaecologist in the OPD
- Your scans and reports reviewed, with tests done in-house if you need them (laboratory, X-ray and imaging)
- Your options explained in plain words, including whether you need surgery at all
- A cost estimate before you decide
- Help with cashless treatment under RGHS, MAA Yojana, CGHS and empanelled insurers and TPAs
- Follow-up visits after your treatment
Overview
Childbirth and Delivery: what to know
What childbirth and delivery means
Childbirth is the process of giving birth to a baby. It can happen through the vagina, which is called a vaginal delivery, or through a cut in the tummy and womb, which is called a caesarean section or C-section. In a vaginal delivery, the womb contracts to push the baby down the birth canal.
Sometimes the doctor may use a vacuum cup or forceps to help guide the baby out if labour is taking too long or the baby shows signs of distress. A C-section is a major operation where the surgeon makes a cut across the lower tummy, usually just below the bikini line, and opens the womb to deliver the baby.
The cut is usually 10 to 20 cm long. Most C-sections are done under spinal or epidural anaesthetic, which means you are awake but the lower part of your body is numbed so you do not feel pain. Occasionally a general anaesthetic is used if the baby needs to be delivered very quickly. A C-section can be planned before labour starts or it can become necessary during labour as an emergency.
Signs that labour has started and when to seek urgent care
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Severe constant abdominal pain
- Green or brown fluid gush
- Baby moving much less
- High fever
- Severe headache
Labour usually begins with regular contractions that become stronger, longer and closer together. You may also notice a "show" of mucus mixed with a little blood, or your waters may break as a gush or a trickle of fluid. Backache and a feeling of pressure in the pelvis are common.
If your waters break, or if you have regular contractions about five minutes apart, contact the hospital. Seek urgent care the same day if you have heavy vaginal bleeding, severe constant abdominal pain, a sudden gush of fluid that is green or brown, or if you feel the baby moving much less than usual. A high fever, severe headache, vision changes or sudden swelling of the face and hands also need immediate assessment.
Why a caesarean may be needed and who is at higher risk
Do
- Baby in breech position
- Low-lying placenta
- Pre-eclampsia
- Infections like herpes or HIV
- Baby not getting enough oxygen
- Labour not progressing with bleeding
A caesarean may be recommended as a planned procedure or done in an emergency if a vaginal birth is thought to be too risky.
Common reasons include the baby being in the breech position and not turning, a low-lying placenta (placenta praevia), pregnancy-related high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia), certain infections such as a first genital herpes infection late in pregnancy or untreated HIV, the baby not getting enough oxygen and nutrients, or labour not progressing with excessive vaginal bleeding.
A previous C-section, multiple pregnancy, or certain medical conditions in the mother can also increase the likelihood of needing a caesarean.:
- Previous C-section
- Multiple pregnancy
- Certain medical conditions in the mother
Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of each option with you.
How the mode of delivery is decided: checks and monitoring
- Antenatal checks Baby position, growth, placenta checked
- Ultrasound scans Confirm placenta position and baby size
- Labour monitoring Baby heart rate and cervix checked
- Decision point Assisted delivery or caesarean if needed
During pregnancy, your doctor checks the baby's position, growth and wellbeing at each antenatal visit. Ultrasound scans help confirm the placenta position and the baby's size and lie. In labour, the baby's heart rate is monitored continuously or at regular intervals to check for distress. Vaginal examinations assess how far the cervix has opened and the baby's descent.
If labour is not progressing or the baby shows signs of distress, the team may recommend an assisted vaginal delivery with vacuum or forceps, or a caesarean section. For a planned caesarean, the procedure is usually scheduled from the 39th week of pregnancy.
If you ask for a caesarean without a medical reason, the doctor will explain the overall benefits and risks compared with a vaginal birth. If after discussion you still feel a vaginal birth is not acceptable, you should be offered a planned caesarean.
Options for pain relief and support during labour
You can choose from several pain relief options. Epidural analgesia is available 24 hours a day and numbs the lower body while you stay awake. Other options include breathing techniques, warm water, massage, and medicines given by injection.
Continuous support from a companion of your choice or a trained support person has been shown to:
- Increase the chance of a spontaneous vaginal birth
- Shorten labour
- Reduce the need for pain medicines
- Improve satisfaction with the birth experience
Babies of women who had continuous support were also less likely to have a low Apgar score at five minutes. If you are anxious about giving birth, you should be offered the chance to discuss your anxiety with a healthcare professional who can offer support during pregnancy and labour.
Preparing for childbirth and delivery
Do
- Comfortable cotton nightwear
- Front-opening shirts for breastfeeding
- Sanitary pads
- Toiletries
- Phone charger
- Regular medicines
Your obstetrician will ask for a few routine tests before the planned date.
These usually include:
- Blood group and antibody screen
- Haemoglobin
- Blood sugar
- Tests for infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis
A urine test and an ultrasound to check the baby's position and the placenta are also standard. If you have any medical condition such as high blood pressure, thyroid disease or diabetes, bring your recent reports and the medicines you are taking. Your doctor will tell you which medicines to continue and which to stop before admission.
For a planned caesarean you will be asked to fast for about six hours before the operation. Clear fluids may be allowed up to two hours before; your anaesthetist will confirm the exact timing. For vaginal delivery you can eat light meals in early labour unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Pack a bag for yourself and the baby. Useful items include comfortable cotton nightwear, front-opening shirts for breastfeeding, sanitary pads, toiletries, a phone charger, and any regular medicines. For the baby bring a few cotton wraps, nappies, a cap and a going-home outfit. An attendant can stay with you in the room; bring their essentials as well.
If you have a birth plan or preferences about pain relief, skin-to-skin contact, or delayed cord clamping, discuss them with your doctor during an antenatal visit so the team is aware. Continuous support during labour from a companion of your choice is associated with a higher chance of spontaneous vaginal birth and a lower chance of caesarean birth.
How childbirth and delivery is done
Your surgeon will advise which approach suits you and your baby. The main options are:
- Spontaneous vaginal delivery with active management of the third stage using oxytocin to deliver the placenta and reduce bleeding.
- Instrumental delivery using vacuum or forceps if the second stage is prolonged or there is foetal distress.
- Lower segment caesarean section with a Pfannenstiel incision (a horizontal cut just below the bikini line) under regional anaesthesia.
- Trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC) with continuous monitoring for women who are eligible and wish to attempt a vaginal birth after a previous caesarean.
On the day of a planned caesarean you will be admitted in the morning. An intravenous line is placed and you will meet the anaesthetist. In the operating theatre a spinal or epidural anaesthetic is given; this numbs the lower body while you stay awake. A screen is placed across your chest so you do not see the surgery.
A cut about 10 to 20 cm long is made across the lower tummy and womb. You may feel tugging and pulling as the baby is delivered. The baby is usually shown to you and, if well, handed to you or your partner for skin-to-skin contact. The placenta is then delivered and the uterus and abdominal layers are stitched. The operation typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
For an emergency caesarean the same steps happen more quickly; sometimes the baby is delivered within 10 to 15 minutes. If the baby needs immediate help a paediatrician will be ready.
For vaginal delivery you will be cared for in the labour room. Continuous foetal monitoring is used when indicated. Epidural analgesia is available 24 hours a day if you choose it. After the baby is born the placenta is delivered with active management. Any tear or episiotomy is repaired under local anaesthesia.
If you have had a previous caesarean, your doctor will discuss whether a trial of labour is appropriate for you. Most women who have had a caesarean can safely have a vaginal delivery for their next baby. Some women may be advised to have another caesarean depending on the reason for the previous one.
Risks and possible complications of childbirth and delivery
- Caesarean risks for mother
- Infection, blood clots, bleeding, organ damage
- Caesarean risks for baby
- Temporary breathing difficulties or small cut
- Vaginal birth risks
- Perineal tears, bleeding, infection
- Instrumental delivery risks
- Higher chance of severe perineal tears
Vaginal birth is usually safer than caesarean section. The risks of complications are slightly higher with caesarean than with vaginal delivery. A caesarean is major surgery.
Possible complications of a caesarean include infection of the wound or womb lining, blood clots, excessive bleeding, and damage to nearby areas such as the bladder or the tubes that connect the kidneys and bladder. For the baby there can be temporary breathing difficulties or a small cut when the womb is opened.
After vaginal delivery there can be perineal tears, bleeding, or infection. Instrumental delivery carries a slightly higher chance of severe perineal tears. Your doctor will explain the specific risks that apply to your situation.
Some women develop post-traumatic stress symptoms after childbirth.
Negative subjective birth experiences, fear of childbirth, depression in pregnancy, poor health or complications in pregnancy, and a history of PTSD are associated with higher risk of PTSD after birth.:
- Negative subjective birth experiences
- Fear of childbirth
- Depression in pregnancy
- Poor health or complications in pregnancy
- A history of PTSD
If you feel anxious about giving birth you should be offered the chance to discuss your anxiety with a healthcare professional who can offer support during pregnancy and labour.
Recovery and aftercare after childbirth and delivery
- Vaginal delivery hospital stay 1 to 2 nights in hospital
- Caesarean hospital stay 3 to 4 nights in hospital
- Vaginal delivery full recovery 2 to 6 weeks for full recovery
- Caesarean full recovery 6 to 8 weeks for full recovery
- Postnatal check-up Around six weeks after birth
After a vaginal delivery you usually stay in hospital for 1 to 2 nights. After a caesarean the typical stay is 3 to 4 nights. You will be encouraged to start moving as soon as you feel able. Pain relief is given regularly; after a caesarean your abdomen will be sore for several days or weeks. You may also have gas pains and find it hard to take deep breaths at first.
Before you go home the team will check that you are passing urine normally, your bleeding is not heavy, and your pain is controlled. You will be shown how to care for your wound or perineum. Use sanitary pads, not tampons, until bleeding stops completely. The vaginal discharge will be red at first and gradually change to yellow.
At home, rest as much as possible and accept help with cooking, cleaning and errands. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and driving for about two weeks after a caesarean. Before driving again make sure you can comfortably turn your body and press the pedals. Avoid sex for at least six weeks or until your doctor gives the go-ahead.
Full recovery takes about 2 to 6 weeks after vaginal delivery and 6 to 8 weeks after caesarean. You will have a postnatal check-up at around six weeks.
Call the hospital or your doctor if you have:
- Heavy bleeding
- A foul smell from the vaginal discharge
- Fever
- Severe pain that is not relieved by medicines
- Redness or discharge from the caesarean wound
- Calf pain or swelling
- If you feel unwell in any way
Results of childbirth and delivery
- More spontaneous vaginal births, shorter labour, less analgesia, fewer negative feelings, fewer low Apgar scores, fewer depressive symptoms Continuous support
- Less urinary incontinence and prolapse with C-section; higher childhood asthma risk up to age 12, higher obesity risk up to age 5; higher miscarriage, placenta previa, subfertility risk in next pregnancy; lower early breastfeeding rates Caesarean vs vaginal
In studies, women who received continuous support during labour were more likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth and less likely to have a caesarean birth. Their labours were shorter and they were less likely to use any intrapartum analgesia or regional analgesia. They were also less likely to report negative feelings about their childbirth experience.
Babies born to women with continuous support were less likely to have a low five-minute Apgar score. Fewer women developed depressive symptoms after birth.
Caesarean delivery is associated with reduced odds of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse compared to vaginal delivery. However, children delivered by caesarean had an increased risk of asthma up to age 12 years and increased odds of childhood obesity up to age 5 years. Pregnancy after caesarean was associated with increased risk of miscarriage, placenta previa, and subfertility.
Rates of early breastfeeding were lower after caesarean delivery, though if breastfeeding is initiated the mode of delivery has no apparent effect on continuation at six months.
A caesarean may be the only safe option depending on your situation. The biggest benefit in those cases is that it is safer for both you and your baby. If your caesarean happens suddenly it is normal to feel disappointed or sad that your plans changed. Your healthcare team will help you weigh the pros and cons for your individual circumstances.
Cost and insurance for childbirth and delivery in Jaipur
The typical price range in India is ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 for a vaginal delivery and ₹70,000 to ₹1,50,000 for a caesarean section. The final amount depends on the type of delivery, the length of stay, the anaesthesia used, any pre-operative tests, postoperative care, medicines, and whether the baby needs neonatal care. High-risk cases needing ICU or NICU support cost more. Emergency caesarean delivery may have a different cost structure.
Jaipur Hospital is empanelled under:
- RGHS
- MAA Yojana
- CGHS
- A panel of private insurers and TPAs
If you are covered under one of these schemes, bring your card and any pre-authorisation documents at admission. The hospital's in-house pharmacy and diagnostic laboratory mean tests and medicines are available on site. For an estimate specific to your case, ask the admissions team during your antenatal visits or at the time of admission.