The idea of needing a C-section is scary for most pregnant women. There is good reason for this. A C-section is surgery and all surgery has potential risks. A natural birth is always the best and safest way for a baby to be born, if there are no complications. Having said that, there are times when a C-section becomes necessary. Knowing a little about the procedure will help you remain calm should you need one.
Reasons for a C-section:
*The cervix won’t fully dilate
*Mom is unable to push the baby out, after trying for a few hours. This usually happens with very large babies
*Placental abruption, which is when the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus
*Placenta Previa, which is when the placenta is low and covers the cervix partially or completely
*Maternal Health issues, such as gestational diabetes, pre eclampsia, hypertension. These don’t always make a C-section necessary, but sometimes do.
*Fetal distress
*Some, but not all, breech births. Some can be delivered vaginally.
The Procedure:
A catheter will be inserted in your bladder prior to the surgery. You will be given an IV for fluids and drugs. You will be given either regional or general anesthesia. In most cases, a regional anesthesia, such as an epidural or a spinal block will be used. This allows you to be awake and see your baby as soon as it is born. General anesthesia is rarely used, usually only in real emergency situations.
Your abdomen will be cleaned with an antibacterial solution after the anesthesia has taken effect. An incision will be made in your abdomen just above the pubic hair line. Another incision will be made in the uterus. The doctor will take the baby out and cut the cord. Then the placenta will be removed. The uterus and abdomen will be stitched. The entire process takes about 30-45 minutes.
You will be able to see your baby for a few minutes before he or she is taken to the nursery. You may need to wait several hours before being given the baby. This will delay breastfeeding by several hours. Don’t let this discourage you. Many mothers still go on to have very good breastfeeding experiences after a C-section. Keep in mind that a C-section generally means a longer stay in the hospital. You will be there a few extra days.
A C-section is surgery and is not without risks. It’s important to know and understand the risks involved. With more women choosing elective C-sections, this becomes even more important. Doctors should go over these risks with you, particularly if the surgery is elective.
Risks Associated with C-sections:
*Risk of hemorrhaging and internal bleeding after the surgery
*Complications associated with anesthesia, including not being completely numb or having an allergic reaction to the drugs
*Spinal headache as a result of the epidural
*Injury to the internal organs, most often the intestines
*Infection at the site of the incision
*The overall maternal mortality rate is 2-4 times higher than with a vaginal birth, although this is still extremely rare.
Recovery After a C-section:
*Take it slow, don’t try to do too much too fast
*Arrange for extra help around the house. You won’t be able to do all the cooking and cleaning for a few weeks after the surgery.
*Keep your incision clean and dry to avoid infection. Call the doctor immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
*Walk as soon as you can after delivery. Getting up and moving around may be painful at first, but will help you heal faster.
*Take the pain medications offered. Don’t suffer in silence. Use gas relief medication for gas pains.
*No heavy lifting
*Follow all your doctors instructions for your recovery period.