Gemma Ruiz, midwife: "What determines the health (of both mother and baby) is the mother's experience on the day of delivery."

Gemma Ruiz , a midwife with extensive experience, emphasizes that a woman's experience during childbirth makes a real difference to both maternal and neonatal health . She stated this in the podcast "Comiendo con María ," where she analyzed myths and practices related to childbirth and advocated for placing emotional well-being at the center of any clinical decision.

The specialist admitted that, based on medical criteria, "it's much better to give birth vaginally without complications," although she clarified that the procedure used or the presence of an epidural alone do not determine the outcome. She insists that "an epidural is a resource we have to know how to apply—like everything in life—what most impacts a woman's health is the experience ." Therefore, she encourages each expectant mother to choose the environment where she feels calm, whether it be home, a hospital, or a birthing center.

In her opinion, the social pressure to achieve the "perfect birth" can become counterproductive when, after an adverse experience, the feeling of failure lingers: "If we get stuck in the 'I wanted a vaginal birth' and it was a traumatic experience, recovery becomes more complicated." The midwife emphasizes that the priority must be maintaining safety and professional support throughout the entire process.

Informed choice

Ruiz emphasizes that cesarean sections and instrumentation —forceps or vacuum—are "extensions of the professional's hands" and, when performed skillfully, are as safe as a vaginal birth . She also warns against the stigma that sometimes accompanies these procedures, reminding everyone that their proper indication prevents major complications .

During the conversation, the midwife discussed the importance of the microbiota and the responsible use of antibiotics. She noted that altering this microbial ecosystem can influence long-term immunity, which is why she advocates administering antibiotic prophylaxis at the right time and with strict criteria.

However, she emphasizes that science must go hand in hand with common sense: "Childbirth is a process to bring our child into this world; the important thing is that when that baby arrives, they say, 'I'm so lucky, what cool parents I have.'" In her opinion, the key lies in simplifying, providing rigorous care, and embracing the process with affection: "Simplicity works."

Comprehensive well-being

In her final message, Ruiz reminds us that "a good birth is the one you need." She downplayed whether the birth occurs through a "door or window"—vaginal or cesarean —and focused on the calm and trust of the family . She concludes that true success lies in a safe, respectful, and guilt-free experience, where the woman feels supported and involved.

In this way, Gemma Ruiz 's voice serves as a guide for those seeking rigorous and empathetic information about birth, while her approach humanizes the debate and places emotional support on the same level as clinical decisions.