Having a Caesarean Section
Caesarean Section
History:
This procedure has been dated back to the 17th century. In the
1960's and 70's it was discovered that caesarean births were often
advisable even when the mother's or baby's lives were not at risk.
For example deliveries that used forceps often resulted in
problems, when a caesarean would have been the preferable option.
However due to the safety associated with this procedure, concern
is now being expressed as to the quantities of caesareans that are
being performed, about a third of all births.
What is it?
This is a surgical procedure which is used to deliver a baby
through the abdominal and uterine wall.
Why is it done?
When a vaginal birth is impossible or dangerous. This can
mean when the baby is in distress, when the mother is too exhausted
to keep going and when the baby is in the breech position.
Will you be awake?
It is usually done under spinal or epidural anesthesia. Which means
that you will be awake but will not feel pain.
Risks:
This is a major operation so there are risks. Some possible
risks are thrombophlebitis, uterine infection, urinary tract
infection, and complications associated with anesthesia. However
there have been many improvements to this operation making it
safe.
When do you need a caesarean?
•Women that have had a caesarean in the past will be likely to have
another with their next baby due to the possibility of the scar
(from the last caesarean) rupturing during labour. But this is
dependent on the type of incision that the last caesarean had.
There is less chance of rupture if the scar is horizontal (side to
side) this is called a transverse lower uterine incision.
•Breech birth under certain circumstances.
•Failure to progress with labour Dystocia, prolonged labour, arrest
of labour, uterine inertia, failed induction, failed forceps.
•Fetal distress.
•Toxemia Hypertension, placental abruption, placental
insufficiency, premature birth, low birth weight.
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