Cesarean section
- Aspiring Doctors
- Nov 16, 2020
- 2 min read
Written By Bianca Vildor | Edited By Anumita Basani
What is a Cesarean Section?
A cesarean section, also known as a c-section, is the use of surgery to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and the uterus. In the United States, one out of four women deliver their babies this way. In November 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the national c-section birth rate was the highest ever at 29.1%. Some c-sections are planned ahead of time, but in most cases a c-section needs to be performed under unexpected circumstances. One such circumstance is when the mother’s labor is progressing, thus stalling labor. In other words, a woman’s cervix isn’t opened wide enough despite strong contractions. Another circumstance includes a baby in distress . This is determined by a healthcare provider when there are changes detected in the baby’s heartbeat through the use of a fetal monitor. Sometimes, a C-section is needed because the baby or babies are in an abnormal position. If the baby or babies feet enters the birth canal first (breech) then the safest delivery method would be a c-section. If the mother is carrying multiple babies the healthcare provider might determine if a c-section is safer. Additional circumstances involve a woman’s placenta covering the opening of the cervix or the umbilical cord wrapping around the baby, of which both cases would require the need for a C-section.
Risks and Complications
Every major surgery has its risks and complications. C-sections are such major surgeries, thusthere are many things that can go wrong. Some risks and complications include infections at the incision site, in the uterus, and other pelvic organs. Postpartum hemorrhage, blood clots, and inflammation of the uterus go hand in hand with undergoing a C-section. Amniotic fluid embolism-amniotic fluid or fetal materials entering the bloodstream is another consequence that can . One of the more lasting consequences is the threat of future pregnancies. It’s important to keep these in mind in order to approach the surgery with confidence.
Recovery and Care
During a c-section recovery process, discomfort and fatigue are really common. To promote healing, healthcare providers would recommend several suggestions. The first is resting as much as possible after the surgery to let your body readjust. If the incision site feels sore, a healthcare provider might recommend pain medications for relief. If the incision is red, swollen, or leaking discharge, make sure to contact a specialist, such as an obstetrician, gynecologist, or ob-gyn. As long as you take proper care of yourself by avoiding physical and strenuous activities, this period of discomfort will pass by quickly. Keeping in touch with your healthcare provider will prove beneficial if you need to discuss the complications of this surgery during future pregnancies or any future complications you may come across. Overall, the recovery process is similar to any other surgery, thus taking things slowly is a major component of the healing process.
Videos of c-section
Works Cited
C-Section Complications. (2020, August 24). Retrieved November 05, 2020, from https://americanpregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/c-section-complications-676/
C-section. (2020, June 12). Retrieved November 04, 2020, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-section/about/pac-20393655
Cesarean Section | C Section. (2020, July 08). Retrieved November 04, 2020, from https://medlineplus.gov/cesareansection.html
Johnson, T. (2020, October 14). C-Section Risks & Complications. Retrieved November 05, 2020, from https://www.webmd.com/baby/risks-of-a-c-section
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