A cesarean section is a surgery to deliver a baby when normal delivery or delivery through the birth canal (vagina) is either not likely or safe. The gynecologist or doctor who specializes in pregnancy makes an abdominal incision in the mother’s uterus to deliver the baby. The uterus is basically the muscular organ located at top of vagina where the baby grows and develops during pregnancy. This surgery is known as a C-Section or Cesarean Delivery. A C-Section may be either planned before time, or done without any prior planning in certain situations. It is necessary to be mentally prepared for normal delivery as well as C-section delivery if it becomes essential.
When do the doctors opt to do the cesarean delivery ?
There are many situations where a C-Section is recommended over a vaginal delivery.
- A second pregnancy or manifold pregnancies: The probability of having a C-section goes up with the number of pregnancies a woman has.
- Improper position of the baby: When the baby is not positioned right for a vaginal birth. Most of the infants shift their heads towards the birth canal as the due date approaches. If their feet or buttocks are towards the exit of the canal, it is called as breech presentation.
- When the labour is not going forward: Sometimes, the cervix may not widen enough to allow foetal passage into vagina and mother is unable to push the baby out through the birth canal.
- If the baby has defects in their umbilical cord or placenta: Placenta is the connecting cord that provides nourishment and removes waste from the baby.
- Certain medical conditions that may cause difficult vaginal labour: Diabetes, high blood pressure and certain genital infections in the mother’s reproductive tract are safer to C-section.
What are the risks of having a cesarean section ?
Any surgery is associated with risks for complications.
- Pain or discomfort if the anesthetic does not work adequately.
- Having an allergic reaction to the anesthesia.
- Blood loss or Infection
- Blood clots in the legs, abdominal organs or lungs
- Surgery induced injury to the bowel or bladder
- Weakened incision in the uterine wall because of which future deliveries also are supposed to be by C-Section.
What is the preparation needed for cesarean Section ?
- It is important to plan ahead for your care and recovery post your operation.
- Adequate time for recovery should be given before resuming your day to day activities.
- The night prior to surgery, only consume a light meal, such as soup or salad.
- Do not consume heavy food for up to 6 hours before your surgery (such as gum or hard candy). You may drink water or electrolytes for up to 2 hours ahead of admission.
- Take a bath prior to procedure. The nurse will then prepare you for the C-section by shaving, disinfection, enema and administering sedation.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
