Find out everything you want to know about a C-section and equip yourself with all the knowledge available. Whether you or a loved one are considering a C-section procedure, these expert-approved facts will help you feel more prepared and ready. This article outlines and explains the must-know facts about the C-section procedure, including how to prepare, what to expect, and possible risk factors. 

Before anything else, you will want to consult with a healthcare professional at a reliable clinic. If you are looking for the best professionals with years of expertise and excellent results, consider obstetric services in Coral Springs, Florida. With that in mind, here is everything you need to know about getting your first C-section.

What is a C-Section?

In brief, the surgical procedure utilized to deliver a baby via surgical incisions created in the uterus and the abdomen is called Cesarean delivery or a C-section. Experts use this surgical procedure when vaginal delivery is risky. In most cases, a Cesarean delivery is planned before giving birth, or sometimes, it is performed when an emergency is involved. 

Usually, a C-section can carry more risks compared to a vaginal delivery, and it can take longer to heal. Also, patients who have had a Cesarean delivery can have another one. In most cases, the need for a first-time Cesarean delivery is unclear until the woman is in labor.

If you have any questions or concerns related to a C-section procedure and your health in general, we suggest consulting with an expert in the field. If you are searching for the best, reach out to Dr. White-Videa.

Who Is a Candidate for a C-Section Procedure?

Doctors and Surgeons Operating Patient in Hospital With Full Concentration

There are many reasons why healthcare professionals suggest a C-section procedure. Here are some:

  • The unborn child may be in distress. The doctor may notice changes in the hearbeat of the child, making a C-section safer than vaginal delivery.
  • The labor is not progressing as it usually should. In case of labor dystocia, a doctor may need to perform a C-section. Some issues with labor dystocia include a prolonged first or second stage.
  • The mother is carrying twins, triplets, or more babies. If there are multiple births involved, a C-section may be the best option. Also, if the labor begins very early, a Cesarean delivery may be required.
  • The baby/babies are not in a normal position. If the baby’s buttocks or feet breach the birth canal first, a C-section is required. This is also the case if the baby’s shoulders or sides come first.
  • If there is a prolapsed umbilical cord. The doctor will recommend a C-section if an umbilical cord loop slips via the cervix.
  • If there are placenta complications. In the case of placenta previa (this is when the cervix’s opening is covered by the placenta), a woman may need a Cesarean delivery.
  • Blockage happens. For instance, in case of a pelvic fracture or if the birth canal is blocked by a large fibroid, there is a need for a Cesarean delivery. If the baby has a condition such as hydrocephalus (when the head is abnormally large), vaginal birth can be very risky.
  • Other health concerns are involved. Women who are suffering from brain or health conditions may need to have a Cesarean delivery.
  • Women who have had uterus surgery or a previous C-section are eligible candidates for this surgical procedure.

Sometimes, women may request a C-section procedure, especially if it is their first baby. Some patients may want to avoid possible risks associated with a vaginal birth or the labor process. Others may also want to plan the delivery time. 

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a C-section procedure is not the best option for females who want to have more children in the future. Namely, the more Cesarean deliveries a patient has, the bigger the risks of complications in upcoming pregnancies.

Types of C-Section Incision

So, you are considering a Cesarean delivery. The two types of C-section incisions to keep in mind include the abdominal and the uterine incision. Here is what you need to know about both.

  • Abdominal incision: The surgeon will begin the procedure by making an incision in the wall of the abdomen. Usually, this is performed horizontally close to the pubic hairline., The doctor may create an incision, this time vertical, from below your navel near the pubic bone *lightly above).
  • Uterine incision: After this, the doctor will make a uterine incision. This is performed horizontally across the lower part of the uterus (low transverse incision). Based on the baby’s position, the doctor may use other types of C-section incision – this can also depend on other complications involved, such as preterm delivery and placenta previa.

You will have a C-section scar. Like other scars, they will probably never go away entirely. However, you can discuss ways to make the C-section scar less visible with your doctor.

Are There Any C-Section Risks I Should Be Aware Of?

While a Cesarean delivery can be a safer alternative to vaginal delivery, it can also carry risks. Here are some things you need to know about getting a Cesarean delivery:

  • You will have a C-section scar: There will be a horizontal scar approximately 10 to 20 centimeters (3.9 to 7.8 inches) long below the bikini line. In rarer situations, the scar may be vertical and below your belly button. The C-section scar can be red and very obvious when fresh, but it will become less evident with time.
  • The baby may have breathing issues: Babies delivered by a scheduled Cesarean section have a higher chance of developing breathing issues that lead to faster breathing for a few days post-birth (referred to as transient tachypnea).
  • Surgical injury: While this is one of the rarest C-section risks, the baby’s skin can sometimes be injured during the procedure.
  • Blood loss: A Cesarean delivery may cause heavy bleeding.
  • Infection: After a Cesarean section, a woman may be at risk of getting an infection of the uterus’s lining (endometritis).
  • Anesthesia reactions: In rare cases, C-section risks include adverse effects of anesthesia.
  • Surgical injury: In rare cases, the woman can get surgical injuries to the bowel or the bladder. However, choosing a reputable clinic will minimize this risk.
  • Blood clots: This procedure can increase the chances of getting blood clots inside the deep vein, typically in the pelvis or the legs. 

How To Prepare for a C-Section Procedure?

If you are planning a Cesarean delivery and you have medical conditions that could increase anesthesia complication risks, your healthcare professional will suggest consulting with an anesthesiologist. The healthcare professional may also recommend blood tests – these will provide info about your blood type and hemoglobin levels. 

If you don’t want to have future pregnancies, you may want to talk to your doctor about permanent birth control.

Things to Consider When Recovering at Home

Young and Beautiful Blond Girl in the Bed. Sleeping Woman in a Rays of Morning Sun.

In most cases, patients who have had a Cesarean delivery need to stay in the hospital for two to three days. Once the anesthesia wears off, you will need to hydrate properly and walk (to prevent deep vein thrombosis and constipation). Your doctor will also remove the bladder catheter.

Women may begin breastfeeding as soon as they are ready. 

The recovery process can be uncomfortable and tiring. Here are some ways you can promote recovery:

  • Rest whenever you can, and avoid lifting over 25 pounds.
  • Refrain from having sex (wait at least six or more weeks).
  • Do not put anything into the vagina for at least six weeks.

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