Caesarean Section
Caesarean Section
Section titled “Caesarean Section”Source: https://www.pregnancyinfo.ca/birth/delivery/caesarean-section/
Caesarean Section (C-Section)
Section titled “Caesarean Section (C-Section)”What is a C-Section?
Section titled “What is a C-Section?”A caesarean section (commonly called a c-section) is the delivery of your baby through a surgical opening in the lower belly instead of through the vagina.
Under what circumstances are c-sections performed?
Section titled “Under what circumstances are c-sections performed?”A caesarean is needed in a number of circumstances. Sometimes these are related to the baby and sometimes the mother.
Reasons related to the baby:
- Abnormal heart rate
- Positions that are unsafe for a vaginal delivery, including some breech positions
- Health concerns for the baby that make it unsafe for labour
Reasons related to the mother/delivery process:
- Slow or difficult delivery
- Cervix not dilating (sometimes called failure to progress)
- Previous caesarean birth, and a vaginal delivery is not advised or if the mother prefers not to attempt a vaginal delivery after caesarean (VBAC)
- HIV positive (without suppression of the viral load) or active herpes infection
- The placenta is positioned so that it blocks the cervix (placenta previa)
Is a c-section safe?
Section titled “Is a c-section safe?”A caesarean is a very common surgical procedure but still has associated risks. Babies born via c-section can have respiratory problems but these usually resolve quickly. The recovery time for the mother is longer and the risk of infection is greater compared to vaginal delivery. And, once there is a scar in your uterus, there are special considerations for your next labour. As with any surgery, there are complications that can arise. For example, bleeding and blood clots are more likely, urinary tract infections can happen, and bowel function may be decreased.
On the other hand, a difficult vaginal delivery can cause complications for both mother and baby. The decision as to which is the safest choice needs to be made carefully. There are no simple answers that apply to everyone. Your health care provider can discuss risks and benefits with you to help make your decision easier.
What happens during a c-section?
Section titled “What happens during a c-section?”Normally your birth partner can be present with you in the operating room. There will be a drape in front of you that will prevent you from completely seeing what is happening. Usually you or your partner will be able to hold your baby shortly after he or she is delivered.
Preparations for c-section include insertion of a catheter into the bladder and placement of an intravenous (IV) line in the hand. Usually pain relief is provided by an epidural or spinal anesthetic, but sometimes in very rare emergency situations, general anesthetic is used. Once you are numb, the obstetrician will make an incision through the skin, fatty tissue, and the wall of the abdomen. Then an incision is made in the uterus and the baby is delivered.
The incisions are usually horizontal just above the public hair but may be vertical.
After the umbilical cord is cut and the placenta is removed, your uterus will be closed with dissolving stitches. Then your skin will be stitched or stapled.
What happens after a c-section?
Section titled “What happens after a c-section?”After surgery your catheter will be removed. Once you are eating and drinking well, your IV will be removed. You will receive instructions on how to care for the incision and when and how to resume normal day to day activities. You will also have follow-up appointments with your care provider until 6 weeks post-caesarean. Many women who have had a previous c-section are still able to deliver vaginally in future pregnancies. Vaginal birth after Caesarean (VBAC) has a high success rate.
Can I choose to have a c-section?
Section titled “Can I choose to have a c-section?”If you want to have a c-section but have no obstetrical or medical reasons to do so, it is very important that you clearly understand the risks and benefits of your choice, compared to the risks and benefits of attempting a vaginal delivery. Some health care providers may not be willing to perform elective caesareans without a medical reason.
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