What To Expect For a Cesarean Section Delivery

A cesarean delivery, or C section, is a method used to deliver a baby during labor. This is done through surgical incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and the uterus. Typically, a C-section replaces natural birth due to pregnancy complications such as labor dystocia, fetal distress, breech or transverse fetal position, twins, placenta previa, prolapsed umbilical cord or complicated health issues. Women who have had a C-section during a prior delivery are more likely to require one for additional births. However, the need is usually unclear during the mother’s first C-section.

Due to the surgical nature of a C-section, there are several risks associated:

Fetal Risks include:

• Breathing problems immediately after birth known as transient tachypnea

• Rare surgical injuries

Maternal Risks Include:

• Infection

• Blood loss

• Reactions to anesthesia

• Rare surgical injuries to bladder or bowel

• Increased future risks during pregnancy

During the surgery, the physician will make an incision into the abdomen, usually done near the pubic hairline. A uterine incision is then made, which may vary depending on the fetus’ position within the uterus. The physician will then deliver the baby by clearing his or her mouth and nose of fluids, clamping and cutting the umbilical cord. The mother’s placenta is removed and incisions are sutured.

Following the C section, the physician typically requires a 2-3 day hospital stay, adequate fluid intake, and slowly walking to prevent DVTs and constipation. The health care team will monitor for infection and recovery. Mothers are recommended to rest at home to promote recovery. The ACOG recommends that postpartum care be continued, once within 3 weeks after delivery, then 12 weeks.

References

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, June 16). C-section. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-section/about/pac-20393655