You can choose how you want to give birth. As with your preferred birth location, the type of birth you have will depend on your preferences, your and your baby’s health and where you plan on giving birth. Generally speaking, you can have a:
vaginal birth - also referred to as a ‘normal birth’, this involves the baby passing through the birth canal and being delivered through the vagina
c-section - this involves an operation during which the baby is delivered through an incision made in your abdomen and uterus
vaginal birth after a c-section (VBAC) - this is where you have a vaginal birth after previously having given birth via c-section
water birth - this involves a vaginal birth, however, during labour and delivery you are in a specially designed tub or pool of warm water
You should speak to your midwife and/or doctor about your options for giving birth. They will be able to provide more information to you and outline the benefits and risks of different birth methods.
For more information, read Tommy’s Baby Charity’s guidance on options for giving birth.