French birth: Gynecologist explains when it's a better choice than C-section, but with strict conditions

A surgical technique introduced in 1996, the "French birth" offers a modified Cesarean section that may lead to quicker recovery, less postoperative pain, and shorter hospital stays compared to a traditional C-section. However, it is not suitable for all pregnant individuals and requires a skilled surgeon.

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This is our older technique that is described in textbooks, but it is essentially an extraperitoneal Cesarean section. This means that the peritoneum is not opened, that is, the anterior abdominal wall is not opened.

This method, also known as extraperitoneal Cesarean section, differs from the classic procedure by avoiding opening the peritoneum, or abdominal lining. Instead, the uterus is accessed externally through a low transverse incision on the skin. The fascia of the muscles is cut longitudinally, not horizontally, and a key difference for the patient is the absence of a catheter.

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The difference from a classic Cesarean section is that when a low transverse incision is made on the skin, the muscle fascia is not cut in a horizontal incision, but in a longitudinal incision.

Dr. Snežana Rakić, a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics, explained that the primary goal is to minimize trauma and damage to surrounding tissues, facilitating a faster maternal recovery. Patients may experience less postoperative pain and can often go home after just one or two days. The technique is also considered beneficial for women planning multiple births, as it may reduce the risk of uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies, potentially increasing the likelihood of a vaginal birth after a Cesarean section.

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The third difference, which is important for the patient, is that there is no catheter.

Despite these advantages, the French birth is not a universal solution. Dr. Rakić emphasized that the decision to use this technique rests solely with the gynecologist, based on an assessment of safety for both mother and baby. The method requires a highly skilled operator proficient in its execution. While subjectively better for the mother, specific contraindications exist, and the surgeon's expertise is paramount.

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It is considered that this technique is better for repeated Cesarean sections because there is a smaller possibility of scar rupture. In the next pregnancy, in the next birth, a vaginal birth after a Cesarean section with this technique is more likely, these are data from professional literature.