Why C-section shouldn't be first option: Lessons from maternity veteran

For over three decades, Susan Wakaruigi has stood beside countless mothers as they welcomed new life into the world.

From her early days as a young nurse filled with hope and compassion to her current role as Chief Nursing Officer at Nairobi West Hospital, her journey has been marked by dedication, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the natural birth process.

“Nursing is not just a job for me,” she says. “It’s a calling. I’m here to educate, care, and ensure that every mother and baby gets the best possible start.”

In a world increasingly leaning towards convenience, where Caesarean sections (CS) are on the rise, Wakaruigi remains a strong advocate for Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery (SVD).

“As a midwife, I always advocate for natural delivery. It’s less invasive, has a quicker healing process, and strengthens the natural bond between mother and child,” she explains.

While she acknowledges the necessity of CS in cases of medical emergencies, such as when the baby is in a breech position or when the mother has underlying conditions like pre-eclampsia, she worries that the procedure is becoming more common for non-medical reasons.

“The rates are increasing,” she notes, “partly because of anatomical reasons like a narrow pelvis or babies too large to pass through naturally. But also, some women opt for CS simply to avoid the pain of labour.”

Wakaruigi doesn’t shy away from the difficult conversations around the pressure private hospitals may place on women to undergo CS for financial gain.

“It’s unethical and immoral,” she says firmly. “Medical decisions should be based on necessity, not profit.”

She also points to cultural beliefs and societal shifts as contributing factors. “Some women believe that vaginal delivery is too risky or that CS is more modern and cleaner. But every mother has a right to make an informed choice based on facts, not fear or misconception.”

At Nairobi West Hospital, she estimates that for every 100 births, around 30 to 35 are CS deliveries.

While she stresses the importance of having options available for mothers in genuine need, she urges women to stay active, attend their antenatal clinics, and engage with professional advice.

“There’s even a remedy for CS delivery that mimics the natural process,” she shares. “It involves pain through epidurals, reducing the need for a surgical procedure, and allowing mothers to deliver without fear.”

As she reflects on her long career, Wakaruigi’s passion for maternal health is as strong as ever. “Our goal,” she says, “is always to prioritise the safety and well-being of mother and baby. But where possible, we believe nothing beats the beauty and strength of a natural birth.”