Using incisions in the abdomen and uterus, a woman gives birth to a baby through cesarean section (C-section).
If you have pregnancy problems or have had a prior C-section, a C-section may be arranged in advance if you don’t want to pursue a vaginal delivery following the cesarean (VBAC). First-time C-sections aren’t always necessary, and this becomes clear only after labor has begun.
Your health or the health of your child may need a cesarean section, generally known as a C-section. This treatment involves making surgical incisions in the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby.
When a medical reason necessitates a cesarean birth, you may arrange it ahead of time, or it might happen spontaneously during your labor if specific complications emerge.
If any of the following circumstances apply, you may require a scheduled cesarean delivery:
If any of the following occur during your labor, you may require an unscheduled cesarean delivery:
If your C-section is planned ahead of time, your doctor may propose that you speak with an anesthesiologist about any probable medical issues that increase your risk of anesthetic difficulties during the procedure.
Before your C-section, your doctor may also order specific blood tests. The results of these tests will reveal your blood type and hemoglobin level, which are both important in determining the health of your red blood cells. In the unusual event that you need a blood transfusion during the C-section, these facts will be useful to your medical team.
Even if you want to give birth vaginally, you should be ready for everything. Talk to your doctor well in advance of your due date about the likelihood of a C-section. Ask questions, express your worries, and consider if a C-section is the best choice in your particular situation. In an emergency, your doctor may not have the time to describe the process or answer all of your questions.
You’ll need time to relax and heal after a C-section. For the weeks after the birth of your baby, consider enlisting the assistance of family and friends.
If any of the following apply, speak with your physician right away:
It’s possible that postpartum depression sets in early after delivery if you suffer from strong mood changes, loss of appetite, exhaustion, and a general lack of happiness. If you suspect you could be sad, talk to your doctor, particularly if your symptoms don’t go away on their own, if you have difficulty caring for your infant or performing everyday duties, or if you have thoughts of killing yourself or your baby, contact your health care professional.
If vaginal delivery isn’t an option, a C-section delivers the fetus surgically. If you’re having a Cesarean, you may be able to arrange it ahead of time. You might even have it done if anything goes wrong with your pregnancy or childbirth.