- A C-section birth may be scheduled before the start of your labour or after it has started if there are problems during labour.
- It is performed by a doctor by making an incision into your abdomen and uterus to birth the baby.
- C-sections are recommended when it is necessary to protect you and your baby.
- It is important to talk with your health care provider about your chance of having a C-section and what to expect.
When is a c-section required?
- The cervix does not open completely or labor is not progressing.
- The mother has had a previous C-section or a serious medical condition.
- The baby is in a breech or transverse position.
- Bleeding from the separated placenta.
- If the mother’s health is at risk, as in the case of serious illness such as toxemia, preeclampsia, or severe cases of diabetes.
 The mother has active herpes lesions on her genitals that make a vaginal birth unsafe for the baby.- It is a multiple pregnancy (babies are in an awkward position).
- The baby is too big to fit through the mother’s pelvis.
What about an anaesthetic?
- Most women having a C-section will have a spinal or epidural anaesthetic.
- This allows you to be awake during the surgery and be pain free. If you are awake during birth, ask to hold your baby as soon as possible if you wish.
- In most hospitals your birth partner is allowed to be with you in the operating room.
- In some cases, such as an emergency, a general anaesthetic is given where you will not be awake during the birth and your partner will not be allowed in the operating room.
What to expect after a c-section
- You will be given pain medication to make you more comfortable.
- You will have an IV in your arm and a catheter in your bladder. These will be discontinued once you are drinking well and able to get up to go to the bathroom.
- You will have stitches or small adhesive strips that will come off on their own. If you had staples you will have to have them removed.
- You will have a longer hospital stay than with a vaginal birth.
- In the first few hours after birth, the anaesthetic given during the c-section may make your baby sleepy, which will affect his/her ability to breastfeed.
- You will need help at home for yourself and baby. Ask for help when you need it.
- Healing may take six weeks or longer.
- Do not lift anything heavier than your baby. This includes other children.
- You can drive when you are feeling better and able to twist your torso as you normally would to check behind you and use the break in an emergency.
- Drinking and eating healthy foods will help you heal.
What are the risks associated with c-sections?
- Mothers will have a greater risk of infection, complications from the anaesthetic, a longer recovery time, pain from the surgery and require more help from support people in comparison to a vaginal birth.
- About 60-80% of women who have had a previous C-section can have a vaginal birth in the future (called a vaginal birth after c-section – VBAC).
For more information:
|
Printable Version