An elective delivery is a delivery that is performed for non medical reasons. Some of the reasons for this type of delivery include the following :

• wanting to deliver the baby on a specific date
• pregnant woman uncomfortable during the last weeks of pregnancy
• living far from the hospital
• request for cesarean delivery due to fear of vaginal delivery

 

 
A normal pregnancy last 40 weeks. Babies grow through the last 40 weeks of pregnancy.  The lungs, brain and liver are some of the last organs to deliver.  The brain develops at its fastest rate during the last weeks of pregnancy.  Layers of fats are also added the baby’s skin during the last weeks of pregnancy. This fat keeps the baby warm after birth.

Do babies born before 39 weeks face any risk ?

 
Babies born before 39 weeks may not be as developed as those born after 39 weeks. As a result they are at increased risk of short and long-term health problems.

What health problems are babies born early likely to face ?

 
Babies born early are likely to face problems such as  the following :

• problems maintaining body temperature
• breathing problems
• hearing and vision problems
• high levels of bilirubin
• learning and behavioral problems

What is the risk of elective labor induction and cesarean section before 39 weeks ?

 
It is recommended by health care professionals that unless for a valid medical reason, labor should be allowed to start on its own. If you have an elective labor induction or c-section due to medical reasons, the benefits of the baby being early  may outweigh the potential risk. However if you do it for non medical reasons, the risk to you and the baby may outweigh the benefits. It is better to allow your pregnancy to continue and allow labor to start on its own.

NOTE

If you are planning to have an elective delivery, you need to discuss thoroughly with your doctor about  the risks and benefits and your reason for wanting this done. Depending on your reason for wanting to deliver your baby early, your health care provider may suggest alternatives to help you still stay pregnant.