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What is Cesarean Section?
A cesarean section (or c-section) is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby. A c-section is performed when a vaginal delivery is not possible or when it is considered safer for the mother or baby.
Reasons or Causes to Initiate a Cesarean Birth
There are many reasons a woman might choose to have a cesarean birth. Some reasons are medical, such as if the baby is in a breech position or if the placenta is covering the opening to the cervix. Other reasons are personal, such as if the woman has had a cesarean birth before or if she is afraid of labor.
Cesarean Section Procedure
A cesarean section is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through a cut (incision) in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. The most common reason for a cesarean section is when a baby is in a difficult position to be born vaginally (such as being breech-born). Other reasons for a cesarean section include: the baby is too large to be delivered vaginally; the mother has health problems that could make a vaginal delivery risky; the baby has a problem that requires a cesarean section for delivery; or the mother has had a cesarean section before and wants to deliver her next baby this way.
Types of Cesarean Section
There are four types of cesarean section:
1. Classical cesarean section: This is the most common type of cesarean section. The baby is delivered through a surgical incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.
2. Low transverse cesarean section: This type of cesarean section is less common than the classical cesarean section. The baby is delivered through a surgical incision in the mother’s abdomen, but not her uterus.
3. Emergency cesarean section: This type of cesarean section is performed when a woman is in labor and the baby is in danger.
4. Elective cesarean section: This type of cesarean section is performed when a woman chooses to have a cesarean section instead of a vaginal birth.
Symptoms Following a C-Section Operation
A cesarean section operation is the delivery of a baby through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. Most cesarean sections are done because the baby is in a breech position or is too large to go through the mother’s vagina. After the baby is delivered, the surgeon closes the incision with stitches.
Some women have pain in their lower abdomen for a few days after a cesarean section. Some also have nausea and vomiting. The pain may be worse when the woman coughs, sneezes, or strains to have a bowel movement. The woman may be given pain medicine to help relieve the pain.
Some women have a fever after a cesarean section. This may be caused by an infection. The woman may be given antibiotics to help prevent or treat infection.
Some women have a discharge from the incision. This is usually caused by a stitch that has come loose. The woman may be given a medicine to help stop the discharge.
Some women have trouble breastfeeding their baby after a cesarean section. This may be because the baby is not in the best position to breastfeed. The woman’s doctor or nurse can help her position the baby correctly.
Risks of Cesarean Section Procedure
There are a number of risks associated with cesarean section procedures. One of the most common risks is infection. Infections can occur in the surgical incision, in the uterus, or in the blood. Infections may require antibiotics or, in some cases, surgery to correct.
Another common risk is excessive bleeding. Bleeding may occur either during the surgery or after the surgery. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform a blood transfusion.
Another risk is injury to the baby. Injuries can include cuts or bruises on the baby’s skin, damage to the baby’s nerves or intestines, or problems with the baby’s breathing.
Risks to the mother include injury to the bladder or bowel, blood clots, and problems with the uterus or placenta.
In some cases, cesarean section may be life-saving for the mother or baby. However, it is a major surgical procedure with risks that should be considered before making the decision to have a cesarean section.
Emergency Care Post Cesarean Section
If you have a cesarean section, you will likely have some pain and swelling. You may also have a fever. These are all normal after surgery. You will also likely have some bleeding. This is also normal.
You will need to take it easy for a few days. You should not lift anything heavier than your baby. You should also avoid strenuous activity.
If you have any concerns, please contact your doctor.
Caring Post the Cesarean Section Procedure
A cesarean section (or c-section) is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby. A c-section is performed when a vaginal delivery is not possible or is not safe for the mother or baby.
The c-section procedure begins with the mother being given general anesthesia. Once the mother is asleep, the doctor makes an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. The baby is then delivered through the incision.
The c-section procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. After the baby is delivered, the doctor closes the incision with stitches. The mother is then transferred to the post-operative care unit.
The mother typically stays in the hospital for 2-3 days after a c-section. During this time, she will be monitored for any complications that may arise.
