I am actually glad I didn't give birth vaginally. I had a c-section and my recuperation was phenomenal. I was begging my OB to let me drive after a week because I felt so good. I look up to women who do deliver vaginally, but a c-section (IMO) would have to be easier to recover from than an episiotomy.

Wow really? Did you get to hold your baby after your episiotomy? Because I was bleeding out on the table nearly dead after my c-section and I didn't get to see my baby for almost a day. Sorry I'd take the episiotomy.

I had an episiotomy and I'd do it all over again, rather than have a c-section. Yeah, it wasn't fun, but I still think it's probably a lot better! Besides, let's be honest...by that point you don't even feel them cutting you! I was in so much pain I was oblivious to exactly what was going on!

you don't get to hold your baby for a while after a c-section. the dad doesn't get to cut the cord. It's different to schedule one but to have one because the doctor just wants to go play golf is wrong. I'm so tired of women, who bitch about people that have c-sections bitching. Try not lifting your toddler who is crying to be picked up for 6 weeks. Try to do anything. Recovery is a lot harder than a vagina delivery. you are confined to a bed for at least 24 hours after one. It took me 10 weeks to recover from mine and I did everything I could to make it easier. Breastfeeding is more difficult after a c-section. You can't exercise after for 6 weeks. Or the risk of dying go up??????

I can not believe this is even being discussed in a 'what would you choose' way...Every woman that gives birth has a different experience. I ha a friend that pushed forever before they had to do and emergency c/s and we heard her scream all the way down the hall. That was not her choice. another friend had a similar experience but they had more time to prep for the c/s and when she had her 2nd child they did a scheduled c/s. Recovery sucked for her both times, but it wasn't her choice to have a c/s in the first place. Her second had to be c/s because many physicians will not do a VBAC anymore. I was in labor for hours (about 23) had a horrible labor and alothough I was begging for a c/s I was able to progress and have a vaginal delivery. They cut me, stitched me up and I had no idea until later. I didn't have to put frozen peas on my vajajay, I had a sitz bath that was awesome. Other than being a little uncomfortable for about a week I never took any medications stronger than tylenol after my delivery.

Those of you that say that you would rather rather an epi because the recovery is faster than a c/s, you are morons. An epi makes it difficult to walk or sit or move around. You can bleed to death from an epi, as well, as it it cut next to an artery. You have to live with a scar in the most sensitive place and it ruins your self-esteem and sexuality. I began this topic and I did not get a choice in whether or not to have it done, the doctor who did it just came in and did it. He didn't give me any anesthetic, my epidural had worn off hours ago and he didn't give me any anesthetic when he was stitching it either. After he cut me, he used a vacuum to literally jerk the baby out of me, causing more explosive tearing--all without any anesthetic! I didn't get to hold my baby right away either, because they had to take her away and find out if they had caused her any damage from the whole experience.

On top of that, after it's all said and done, my uncle's wife tells me "oh, two screams and I heard the baby crying". You stupid, fucking bitch, those were the sounds of a sadistic piece of shit torturing me.

So, excuse the fuck out me when I say I would have rather have had a c/s. Anyone who would willingly allow an epi. and would rather have it is delusional and brainwashed because at least 90% of the time, they are completely unnecessary; just a way for the doctor to CONTROL your experience and justify his/her profession. I was sexually assaulted--no one will ever convince me otherwise.

There needs to be an organization to find for and protect the rights of women during pregnancy and childbirth--far more women in this country give birth than have abortions, yet the powerful organization NOW will not add this issue to their agenda!

*not not "no"

You right each woman should be able to choose what's right for her, her body, and her baby. I was forced to have c/s with my second girl just because I had to have a c/s with my first (I had full previa). I should have been able to determine what was right for me and my child but I wasn't given the choice. Something needs to change in our health system.

While I agree we should all be able to voice our opinions on this matter, I don't understand why it has to be VS! I had an epi with my first two and the first one was a nightmare. Looking back, the Doc should have performed a C/S because my son nearly died because his cord was wrapped around his neck and in a knot. He came out sunny side up and not breathing. Of course, I was not aware of the danger he was in because of the 24 hours of hard labor I'd been in. And in a way, I'm glad I didn't know. I spiked a fever and didn't get to see him for 9 hours after i delivered. As horrible as all this was, I hold no anger for women who choose an epi over C/S and vice versa. It's different for everyone! My second epi went off without a hitch and I didn't need one with my third. Some think the grass is always greener, but in truth, that's not ALWAYS the case. Stop bashing people for having their own POV!

I had 2 c sections and one epi. Both hurt, both suck. No one is more of a warrior for having one or the other done. Good thing with the epi is I joked with the dr to 'sew me up tight'...he laughed, but did. "Like a virgin...hey". Ha!

I was in such denial about a csection i refused to watch the video on it in birthing class, set myself up for an emergency csection wonderfully didnt I? Just because I didnt get stitches in my vaJJ doesnt make me less of a mom and if Im ever blessed with another pregnancy Im thankful another csection is automatically on the menu.

Agree w last post 100%

WHY is this a debate? I can understand disappointment or anger over how the birth happened but this horrid catty attitude that one suffered more than the other is very pathetic.

Why don't we instead turn that anger on the medical community. The doctors are the ones perpetrating these unwarranted procedures. Many of these episiotomys and c sections are unneeded and far riskier than natural labor and delivery. Put that anger to good use and speak out to the doctors who intervene too often in the United States.

I'm not saying these invasive procedures are bad or shouldn't be used, but they are over used.

As someone who HAS been sexually assaulted, I take offense to the fact that you are comparing your unwanted epi to my brutal rape.

And can I also say, wow what a bitch you are as well! Just because an epi is not for you doesn't mean it's NOT for everyone. I had two epis, one where I felt nothing and one where I felt everything and I healed just fine. I recognize that both epis and csecs are mostly unnecessary, but if that's what someone wants that's there decision. You are a bitch for judging these women and calling them whores. Get a life TROLL.

Wow. You really are a bitch. Your mom should have chosen abortion. I hate to think what kind of child you are raising. Do the world a favor and go live in a cave.

Oh, also, my child? Honor student, certified genius. Fuck you.

Alas, we see the downside of anonymity - no way to ban the jackasses who are incapable of actually holding a discussion.

Wow. All I can say is wow. This person seriously needs to seek some medical attention if she is comparing an epi to sexual assult. With her fabulous communication skills that she is showcasing for all of us to see, I am suprised that her dr didn't sew her fucking mouth shut. She is probably also the same person that started the breastfeed/formula crap.

If you have a problem with your doctore or the common practice of childbirth, hopefully you chose not to have any more children. As an adult, I was fully aware of all possibilities when I went in to labor.

What a nutcase!!!! Sorry but I'm laughing my ripped ass off at her!!!! Go away troll!!!

BTW, the last time I checked, childbirth is not a medical event. Doctors have turned it into one in order to further control women and make millions of dollars off of our suffering and stupid bitches like you with your heads up your asses are too stupid to fight for the right not to be cut.

And while I'm at it, you sit here saying horrid things to others, saying they are "brain-washed whores" and "fucktards" because they have a differing opinion and telling others they deserve to be raped for judging you. Have you read anything you've written? You've done nothing but judge. Maybe people would feel more for you if you weren't being so nasty. You get more flies with honey than vinegar, as they say.

Exactly. She needs help. A lot of help.

Omg, this whole thread is making me squirm.