India, April 22 -- Choosing how a baby enters this world is one of the most personal and often overwhelming decisions an expectant parent will make. Unfortunately, it's also an area crowded with unsolicited advice, half-truths, and outdated myths. Whether the journey leads to a delivery room or an operating theatre, the objective remains constant: the safety and well-being of both mother and child. In conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Varshali Mali, consultant OBGY, Surya Mother and Child Super Specialty Hospital, Pune debunks myths and clears confusion on delivery methods.

Reality: Dr Vaishali said, "A caesarean section is a major abdominal surgery, not a shortcut to delivery. While it may bypass labour contractions, it involves incisi...