Comparative analysis of natural childbirth and cesarean section on the physiological and psychological effects of puerpera

Abstract

Objective To investigate physiological and psychological effects of natural childbirth and cesarean section on puerpera. Methods A total of 324 cases who were delivered at Second People's Hospital of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture from February 2013 to February 2014 were included into this study. According to different delivery approaches, they were divided into natural childbirth group (n=126) and cesarean section group (n=198). The following items were observed: postpartum pain scores, recovery of postpartum function(anal exhaust time, incidence rate of abdominal distension, anorexia, >1 week vaginal bleeding time, temperature), maternal mood and lactation. The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Review Board of Investigation in Human Being of Second People's Hospital of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture. Informed consent was obtained from the parents of each patient. There were no significant differences between two groups in the aspects of age, gestational age, weight etc.. Results ①There were significant differences between two groups in pain scores at different time points (P 1 week vaginal bleeding time in natural childbirth group were lower than those in cesarean section group with significant differences (P<0.05). The temperature at 1 st, 2 nd day after delivery in natural childbirth group were lower than those in cesarean section group (P<0.05). ③ The proportion of puerpera with good emotion in natural childbirth group was higher than that in cesarean section group (P<0.05). ④ The initial time of lactation in natural childbirth group was earlier than that in cesarean section group (P<0.05). Conclusions Natural childbirth could reduce trauma and promote lactation and postpartum recovery. Key words: Cesarean section; Natural childbirth; Postpartum period; Pain; Emotions; Lactation