Many women decide to go through a C-section procedure beforehand, sometimes even before conception. However, even if you’re planning to have a natural vaginal delivery, performing a C-section incision may prove necessary in the case of an emergency.
Keep in mind that a C-section procedure is a perfectly valid child delivery option and not just an emergency procedure. There is absolutely nothing wrong with opting for one instead of vaginal delivery. It carries many benefits, and if you don’t want to give birth naturally for any reason, you can discuss a planned C-section with your doctor.
What Is a C-section Procedure?
A C-section, also called the Cesarean section, is when a baby is delivered via surgery rather than through vaginal birth. The doctor will make a C-section incision in the abdomen and the uterus and deliver the baby through them. C-sections are fairly common, and although traditionally they were viewed as an emergency procedure, any woman can ask for a C-section if she feels anxious about vaginal birth.
Of course, a Cesarean section is not always planned. The doctor will decide to perform this surgery, even if it was not an option earlier, in response to any serious complications of natural childbirth.
Planned C-section vs. Emergency C-section
As stated earlier, a C-section is a totally valid method of childbirth, and many women decide to have a Cesarean section way ahead of time. After all, a C-section is very safe and can drastically lower the risk of many childbirth complications. Some of the most important reasons for a planned C-section include:
- The mother expecting multiples
- The mother has certain infections, which could transfer to her baby during a natural birth
- The mother is too scared and stressed to give birth naturally
- The mother is overweight or obese
- Vaginal birth may be too stressful for the body
Keep in mind that you don’t need any medical reasons to ask for a C-section. This is called a maternal request Cesarean birth; to put it simply, you have the right to request this type of Cesarean section for any reason, even if you’re just not ready or willing to give natural birth.
On the other hand, the emergency type of Cesarean section may be performed even if you never asked or planned for one. Your doctor will decide whether an emergency C-section is warranted whenever they feel that a natural birth could endanger you or your baby. Some of such reasons may include:
- Your baby is in distress
- The baby is too big to fit through your pelvis
- The umbilical cord emerges before the baby
- The cervix is not dilating
The doctor may also decide to go through a C-section incision for a variety of other reasons; each pregnancy is quite a bit different.
C-section Preparation Process
Before your planned type of Cesarean section, you should take some time to prepare properly. Even though C-section is fairly common, it is still a surgical procedure, thus making C-section preparation absolutely essential. That said, consider the following tips:
- Decide who should be there with you during childbirth.
- Choose whether you want to lower the screen and see your baby being born; if this is something you wish, you’ll need to tell the doctors beforehand.
- Inquire about how the incisions on your abdomen will be closed.
- Remember to pack before your hospital visit; prepare some looser pants, a nightdress, a dressing gown, as well as other types of clothing that won’t put too much pressure on your wound.
- It may also be a good idea to drink some cranberry juice after your surgery, as it will reduce the risk of post-catheter urinary tract infections.
- Do not eat for eight to ten hours before the start of the procedure.
These are just the basic C-section preparation tips you should take into account. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions as the day of your delivery date approaches.
It’s very important to have an open and trusting relationship with your OBGYN. Not only do you need to be in the best possible hands during your pregnancy and delivery, but you also need to feel safe and comfortable. You can always count on Dr. Tahnie Danastor for all your gynecological and pregnancy needs and concerns, as well as a friendly and supportive demeanor.
What to Expect from a C-section Procedure?
Before the intervention, you’ll get local anesthesia, so that surgery won’t hurt. Unless you request otherwise, the doctor will pull a curtain over your midsection, so you won’t have to see the procedure either. You may, however, invite a person to go to the Operating Room with you; they’ll be able to stand by your side and hold your hand.
The whole procedure should not take longer than 45 minutes. Your surgeons will make a four to six-inch incision just above your pubic area. Next, the doctor will basically reach and gently cradle your baby’s head and guide it safely into the world. Afterward, they’ll have to cut off your umbilical cord and remove the placenta.
Both planned and emergency C-sections are typically pretty safe. However, as with any invasive medical procedure, there’s a small risk of complications. Don’t worry too much about this, though – you’ll spend the next few days in the hospital anyway, and the doctors and nurses will do their very best to care for you, immediately starting any necessary treatment in case of any worrying symptoms.
The Road to Recovery
As with any other surgery, you’ll most likely need some time to recover after a C-section. Be prepared to spend three to five days after the surgery in the hospital. The doctor needs to make sure that both you and your baby are fine and healthy before you’re discharged.
On the day of the surgery, you’ll receive a hefty dose of painkillers. You’ll also be required to wear pads for the bleeding. It’s necessary to wait for the gas to pass to be able to eat – the doctor will want to check if all your organs are in order.
After you get discharged from the hospital, you should check in again after a week or two so that the doctor can inspect your incision. After that, another visit will be required in four to six weeks.
Full recovery can take up to a couple of months, so you need to be patient. It’s not always easy, but having your precious baby in your arms is most definitely a worthy reward.
Preconception planning, pregnancy, and making a decision about the kind of delivery you want can come with some mental stress and pressure. This is why it’s so crucial for women to feel perfectly content with their choice of clinic and doctor. That said, feel free to reach out to our obstetrics clinic in Pembroke Pines, where we’re completely dedicated to providing women with the highest quality service and environment. From the beginning of your pregnancy journey to the delivery and gynecological care post-birth, you can count on the fact that the region’s best obstetrical team will be taking care of you.
