Why More Singapore Mums Are Having C-Sections — And What It Means for the Future

More and more Singapore mums are choosing — or needing — a C-section. Previously seen only as an emergency procedure, a C-section has now become a standard method to bring a child into the world. For many mothers in Singapore and worldwide, the decision is largely influenced by medical advice, personal preferences, and changing views of risk and safety. Whether planned or unplanned, the growing number of C-sections has sparked meaningful conversations about what it means for both mother and child.

The statistics speak for themselves. In Singapore, C-section rates rose from 32.2% in 2005 to 37.4% in 2014.¹ Globally, the increase is just as significant — from 16 million C-sections in 2000 to nearly 30 million by 2015.²  

With estimates suggesting that the rate could reach 28.5% by 2030 ⁴ , it raises important questions: What’s driving the shift? - And what does it mean for your child’s long-term health?

Factors Behind Rising Number of  C-Section cases in Singapore

The reasons vary from country to country. According to the WHO, it boils down to healthcare policies, hospital funding, cultural beliefs, patient and physician preferences, how people perceive medical risks, increasing preterm births, and the quality of care available. ⁵

Here in Singapore, some women choose C-sections to avoid labour pain, while others do it to reduce the risk of complications like foetal distress.⁶ Other drivers include advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancies from assisted reproductive technology, and prior C-section history, which can increase the likelihood of a repeat procedure.⁷

Understanding the Shift in Labour Preferences

Doctors are well aware of the many factors behind C-sections.
In recent years, they have also observed a shift in how women approach motherhood. Many of them now walk into consultations well-informed and confident in their choices. And after exploring their options, some still choose to proceed with an elective C-section after carefully weighing the pros and cons.⁹

However, health experts note that it’s helpful for mums to be aware of how C-sections and vaginal births may differ in terms of maternal recovery and early microbiome development of the child — so they can make the choice that feels right for them.¹⁰ Here are the potential effects on maternal recovery after a C-section compared to a vaginal delivery, based on current evidence¹⁰:

Maternal Recovery – C-section vs. Vaginal Delivery

• Recovery period – C-sections are major abdominal surgeries, often requiring 4–6 weeks for full recovery, compared to about 1–2 weeks for uncomplicated vaginal births.²¹

• Postoperative pain – C-section mums may experience more pain and discomfort at the incision site, affecting mobility and daily activities.²² In contrast, mothers who have a normal delivery typically do not experience this type of incision pain.

• Risk of surgical complications – This includes infection, excessive bleeding, blood clots, or injury to surrounding organs.²² Such risks are generally absent in mothers who have normal delivery.

• Hospital stay – C-section mothers typically remain hospitalised for 3–4 days versus 1–2 days for vaginal births.²¹

• Delayed skin-to-skin - Surgical recovery may delay immediate bonding,  though hospital protocols increasingly support early contact.²⁴While for normal delivery mums, they are able to initiate skin-to-skin contact sooner.

Mums should also consider how the child’s arrival method can impact their health & development.

Preparing Ahead for C-Section Recovery in Singapore: Caring for Your Body, Mind, and Relationships

If you’re considering a C-section, it’s important to understand not just the physical recovery but also the emotional and relational journey that often accompanies it. Most mums typically need four to six weeks to heal, with the first two weeks marked by limited movement and recovery from surgery. This period is often referred to as the subacute postpartum phase, during which 87–94% of women report at least one health concern, ranging from lingering pain to emotional strain.²⁵

Physical Healing & Self-Care

Recovery from abdominal surgery involves pain management, incision care, and a gradual return to activity. You'll need to avoid heavy lifting (including your child) for several weeks and focus on gentle healing—light walking, pelvic floor exercises, and nutritious meals can support recovery and gut function.²⁶
Signs such as fever, excessive bleeding, severe pain, or emotional distress—like overwhelming sadness—should prompt a prompt check-in with your healthcare provider.²⁷

Mental Recovery & Emotional Well-being

Delivering via C-section can trigger a wave of emotions—from relief to grief or guilt—especially if the experience diverged from expectations. Approximately one-third of women report emotional or physical health concerns that persist beyond the initial recovery phase.²⁸ 

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or disconnected. Studies show that support from your partner, family, or fellow mums significantly lowers the risk of postpartum depression and supports emotional healing.²⁹ 

Reconnecting Relationships & Bonding

Physical limitations and emotional fatigue may strain your connection with loved ones. That’s normal—but intentional small gestures can help. Simple acts like consistent skin-to-skin contact, partners pitching in with household tasks or errands, and open communication about needs can rebuild intimacy and support your emotional recovery.³⁰ 

How an Elective C-Section Poses Risks to a Child’s Gut Bacteria Development 

Studies show that children born via C-section typically have lower levels of beneficial gut bacteria — such as Actinobacteria, Escherichia, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides — than those who arrived via natural delivery. 

Children delivered via C-section miss exposure to the mother’s vaginal and gut microbiota, which normally occurs during passage through the birth canal. Instead, their first bacterial contact often comes from the skin and hospital environment. This reduces the likelihood of beneficial microbes colonising their bodies.

These bacteria are key to growth, early digestion and immune function—without them, children may face more immunity-related issues, tummy upsets, or common infections. These bacteria are believed to be crucial for growth and may help protect against conditions like asthma, and gastroenteritis. ¹¹

At the same time, C-section children often show higher levels of pathogens like Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter, which are commonly found in hospital environments. ¹¹ This exposure could increase their risk of early-life infections. Studies also suggest that gut microbiome differences can persist for months — and in some cases, years — which may influence long-term metabolic and immune health. ¹²

Building a Strong Foundation for Your C-Section Child’s Health 

In addition to preparing for post C-section recovery, it’s worth thinking about how to support your C-section child’s health.

C-section children may miss out on critical exposure to their mother’s beneficial bacteria at birth, leading to a less diverse gut microbiome. You can help your child by giving them the right nutrition and getting them outdoors for fresh air and sunlight. Keeping hygiene sensible (not over-sterilised) and scheduling regular check-ups to track their growth and health are ways to help them along.

Nutrition plays a key role in building a child's immunity - hence it is important that mums know what ingredients to look out for when choosing a milk formula for their children, especially C-section children. A key ingredient to look out for is 2'-FL. 2’-FL (2’-Fucosyllactose) is a prebiotic that supports the immune system and the balance of microflora. Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome, with 2x higher 2’-FL supports stronger immunity in children by supporting immune resilience and a healthy gut from the start. This is particularly important for C-section children, who may experience delayed microbiome development.

It also includes Prebiotic inulin that strengthens the gut by producing healthy fats, improving iron absorption, and fighting harmful pathogens. ¹⁸ Prebiotics are special types of fibre that serve as food for the good bacteria in the gut. They help these beneficial microbes grow and thrive, supporting better digestion and immunity. By boosting gut health and defending against harmful microbes—laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient immune system.

Including these nutrients early can help bridge the gut microbiome gap seen in C-section children, supporting digestion, immunity, and developmental milestones. ²⁰

Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome also has MFGM and expert recommended DHA, which are good for brain development. MFGM, milk fat globule membrane,  is a natural coating around fat droplets in milk that’s rich in nutrients, which boosts cognitive function and emotional regulation, as well as expert-recommended levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which aids brain development. Together, these nutrients can support long-term higher IQ and EQ holistic brain development beyond 5 years, which is suitable for C-section children. ^{15 16 17}

In conclusion

Whether planned or medically necessary, a C-section is ultimately a mother’s decision. In Singapore, the right resources and expertise are in place to ensure a healthy journey and strong start for both mum and baby.

What matters most is staying informed, planning, and using an evidence-based approach when making choices before a C-section. This is the best option for both your well-being and your child’s future. 

Discover how Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome supports stronger immunity and gut health in C-section children. Sign up for FREE expert tips on nurturing gut health and early development.

Recommended articles

1. Different Types of Birth
2. The Pros and Cons of C-Section for Your Second Baby
3. Preparing for Childbirth - Things no one tells you

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