​The OG way—but not always the easiest.

Vaginal birth is when a baby exits via the birth canal, either with or without assistance.

​

What happens during labour:

• Contractions build up (cue: Is this it or just a really bad cramp?).

• Cervix dilates to 10cm.

• You push like your life (and bladder) depends on it.
   

Pain relief options:

• Epidural: Most popular. You won’t feel your legs, but you will feel like a hero.

• Entonox (Gas & Air): Laughs in pain… literally. It takes the edge off.

• Natural birth: Breathing, movement, hypnobirthing, and sheer willpower.
   

Postpartum expectations:

• Tears & stitches: About 9 in 10 first-time mums tear a little—don’t worry, it heals.

• Bleeding (lochia): Up to 6 weeks of “Are we done yet?” vibes.

• Sore bits: Use warm water sprays, witch hazel pads, and giant undies. No shame.

​

When to choose this: Ideal for low-risk pregnancies, shorter recovery, and lower cost.

​

Delivery cost:

Most common and generally the least expensive option in both public and private hospitals.

​

Private Hospital Pricing

RM3,000–5,000+ for a standard vaginal delivery package, which typically includes a 1–3 night stay and basic postnatal care. The final cost depends on your choice of room and doctor’s fees.
Note: Prices are based on our research at a specific point in time and may vary. For the most accurate and updated rates, please contact your preferred hospital directly.

​

Public Hospital Pricing

Government hospitals charge RM 10–450 for standard vaginal births, though fees may vary by hospital class  .

When baby needs a little help getting out, tools step in. It sounds medieval but is very effective.

​

Why it’s done:

• Baby is stuck, tired, or in distress.

• Labour is long, and pushing needs a boost.
   

What to expect:

• Bruising or cone-shaped baby heads—don’t worry, it’s temporary.

• Soreness “down there” is more intense than typical vaginal birth.

• Higher risk of pelvic floor trauma—pelvic floor physio helps a lot.

​

Delivery cost:

Most common and generally the least expensive option in both public and private hospitals.

​

Private Hospital Pricing

RM4,000–7,000+ for a standard vaginal delivery package, which typically includes a 1–3 night stay and basic postnatal care. The final cost depends on your choice of room and doctor’s fees.

Note: Prices are based on our research at a specific point in time and may vary. For the most accurate and updated rates, please contact your preferred hospital directly.

​

Public Hospital Pricing

Government hospitals charge RM50–600 for standard vaginal births, though fees may vary by hospital class  .

Not the “easy way out.” It’s major surgery—done with either careful planning or emergency flair.

​

Planned vs Emergency:

• Planned: Due to breech baby, medical conditions, or personal preference.

• Emergency: When labour takes a left turn. Often fast-paced and intense.
   

Hospital stay & scar care:

• Usually 3–5 days in hospital.

• Scar may feel numb or itchy; care includes gentle washing and avoiding heavy lifting.

• Don’t be a hero—ask for pain meds.
   

Recovery timeline:

• 6–8 weeks of rest and careful movement.

• No driving, lifting heavy stuff (yes, even laundry baskets), or vigorous workouts early on.

• Accept help. You’re recovering from surgery, not just "having a baby."

​​

When to choose this: For complications like breech, fetal distress, previous C-sections, or medical indications.

​

Delivery cost:

Most common and generally the least expensive option in both public and private hospitals.

​

Private Hospital Pricing

RM6,000-9,000+ for a standard C-section delivery package, RM9,000-15,000+ for Emergency C-section delivery package, which typically includes a 1–2 night stay and basic postnatal care. The final cost depends on your choice of room and doctor’s fees.

Note: Prices are based on our research at a specific point in time and may vary. For the most accurate and updated rates, please contact your preferred hospital directly.

​

Public Hospital Pricing

Government hospitals charge RM100–1200 for standard or emergency C-section births, though fees may vary by hospital class  .

Dreamy to some, “Nope” to others. Water births offer a gentler entrance for baby—and some say less pain.

​

Availability:

• Limited to some private hospitals and birthing centres in Malaysia.

• Best to call ahead—this isn’t widely available in all states.
   

Benefits:

• Warm water relaxes muscles and may reduce tearing.

• Less need for pain meds.
   

Risks:

• Infection (if hygiene not top notch), and water temperature must be monitored.

• Not recommended for high-risk pregnancies.
   

Recovery:

Similar to vaginal birth. Still expect bleeding, soreness, and a serious need for mesh underwear.

​

What to know: Provides pain relief and comfort through softer tissues and buoyancy.

​

Delivery cost:

Most common and generally the least expensive option in both public and private hospitals.

​

Private Hospital Pricing

Available only in select private hospitals.

RM9,000–11,000+ for a standard vaginal delivery package, which typically includes a 1–3 night stay and basic postnatal care. The final cost depends on your choice of room and doctor’s fees.

Note: Prices are based on our research at a specific point in time and may vary. For the most accurate and updated rates, please contact your preferred hospital directly.

​

Public Hospital Pricing

This service is not available in public hospitals.

Your body just made a human. Now it needs healing.

​

What you’ll go through:

• Lochia: Bleeding up to 6 weeks—starts red, ends yellowish.

• Soreness: Perineum, incision, back pain… it’s all part of the ride.

• Exhaustion: Not just from sleepless nights—your organs are literally rearranging themselves.
   

Tips for faster healing:

• Rest like it's your full-time job.

• Eat well: Think iron-rich foods, collagen, soups.

• Gentle movement: Walking helps circulation, digestion, and mood.

• Vaginal steam baths? Ask your midwife before going full-tradition.
   

What’s normal vs when to call a doctor:

• Normal: Mild cramps, bleeding, night sweats.

• Call a doctor: Fever, foul-smelling discharge, excessive bleeding, deep sadness.

Your hormones just crashed harder than a toddler without naps.

​

Baby blues vs Postpartum Depression:

• Baby blues: Weepy, moody, anxious (common and short-lived).

• Postpartum Depression (PPD): Lasts longer, deeper sadness, difficulty bonding, intrusive thoughts.
   

Coping with overwhelm:

• It’s okay to grieve the birth you didn’t plan.

• Journal, talk to other mums, avoid toxic positivity.

• Therapy isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.
   

Where to seek help (Malaysia):

• Government clinics (KK), private OBs, or NGOs like PPD Support Malaysia.

• Pantang nurses or doulas often offer emotional support, too.

Rest isn't laziness—it’s medicine.

​

Traditional Practices:

• Malay: Bengkung, jamu, herba mandian, no “angin” food.

• Chinese: 30 days indoor, tonic soups, no cold water.

• Indian: Ghee-laden food, oil massage, warm drinks.
   

Modern twists:

• Mix and match what makes sense to you.

• Eat well, sleep plenty, and dodge unsolicited advice like a pro.
   

Where to find help:

• Confinement ladies, massage therapists, postnatal doulas—ask local Facebook groups or hospitals.

• Be clear about what you want (and don’t want).

This isn’t a one-woman show.

​

Why your village matters:

• You need meals, support, and someone to hand you your water bottle.

• Partners may not “get it” right away—communicate with clarity and kindness (even if you want to scream).
   

Talking to your spouse:

• “Please help me” > “You never help.”

• Delegate baby tasks. Let them own it.
   

Encouraging rest without guilt:

• You are not lazy.

• You’re healing and raising a newborn.

• Let go of the Supermum myth—it’s a trap.