Athiya Shetty’s Natural Delivery will encourage other would-be mothers to follow suit

By Anil Merani: Athiya Shetty’s decision to opt for a natural delivery is a significant moment that can inspire other expectant mothers. Athiya, the daughter of Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, welcomed her first child, Evaarah, with her husband, cricketer KL Rahul, on March 24, 2025. Suniel Shetty shared his initial concerns about whether Athiya could handle motherhood in a Hindustan Times article (May 17, 2025), but he ultimately praised her choice of natural delivery and her ability to thrive as a mother. He described her as an “unbelievable mother,” noting how she managed delivery and motherhood without showing signs of stress or exhaustion. This narrative can empower other women by showcasing a high-profile figure embracing vaginal birth and succeeding in the process.

Benefits of Normal Delivery for Mother and Child

In the absence of complications, a normal vaginal delivery (NVD) is often considered the best option for the health of both mother and child. Here are some key benefits supported by various sources:

For the Mother:

According to an article from MFine on normal delivery tips for Indian mothers, NVD reduces the complications associated with surgical interventions like C-sections. Vaginal births typically involve shorter recovery times—mothers can often resume normal activities within a few weeks, whereas recovery from a C-section can take 6 to 8 weeks (The Mother Baby Center, 2024). Additionally, vaginal delivery avoids risks associated with surgery, such as infections or complications from anesthesia. The “Made for This Moment” article also highlights that unmanaged post-delivery pain can occur after both vaginal and C-section births, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder. However, vaginal births generally have lower rates of severe pain-related complications when managed properly.

For the Baby:

Babies born vaginally are exposed to beneficial bacteria in the birth canal, which helps build their immune system and gut microbiome. Studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH, 2023) often cite this factor. The natural compression during vaginal birth also aids in expelling fluid from the baby’s lungs, reducing the risk of respiratory issues compared to babies born via C-section, where this process does not occur naturally (The Mother Baby Center, 2024).

Addressing the Pain Factor

The pain associated with normal delivery is a valid concern. While labor pain can be intense, advancements in pain management have made it more manageable. The “Made for This Moment” article notes that epidurals, used in about 77% of U.S. deliveries, can significantly reduce pain while allowing mothers to remain active during labour. A study covering 2010 to 2017 in New York hospitals found that neuraxial analgesia (like epidurals) was associated with a 14% decrease in severe maternal complications during vaginal deliveries. Similarly, expecting mothers in India have access to pain relief options, although cultural attitudes sometimes discourage pain management due to myths about its impact on the baby. The MFine article encourages women to discuss all options with their doctors.

Encouraging Natural Delivery Without Complications

Athiya’s story can indeed motivate others, especially since she comes from a high-profile family where C-sections are often more common due to access to private healthcare. In India, C-section rates have risen sharply; according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–2021), the rate of C-sections in urban India was 32.2%, compared to 16.5% in rural areas. These statistics reflect trends driven by convenience or fear of labor pain rather than medical necessity. The MFine article advises that a completely natural delivery is encouraged for low-risk, uncomplicated pregnancies, but emphasises the importance of consulting a doctor to assess individual risks.

However, it’s crucial to remember that “without complications” is the key phrase here. The Mother Baby Center article stresses that C-sections can be a safer option when complications arise, such as breech positioning, placenta previa, or fetal distress. The decision should always be individualised, as the article notes: “Everyone’s situation and experience are so different.” This focus on personalized decisions in childbirth acknowledges the unique circumstances of each mother and child.

Cultural Impact and Inspiration

Athiya’s choice can help shift perceptions, especially in urban India, where C-sections are sometimes viewed as a “modern” or “easier” option. Her father’s pride in her decision—calling her a “beautiful mother” who handled everything gracefully—adds emotional support that can resonate with families. This aligns with the MFine suggestion that going to the hospital only in the later stages of labor can encourage vaginal delivery, as early hospital admission often leads to unnecessary interventions.

The post Athiya Shetty’s Natural Delivery will encourage other would-be mothers to follow suit appeared first on Tellyexpress.