What Happens During a C-Section?

In the United States, almost 1 in 3 women will undergo a c-section when it comes time to give birth. Despite repeated warnings from the World Health Organization - WHO - that the cesarean section rate should not be over 15%, the United States' rate continues to climb.

Cesarean sections are performed for four reasons:

Emergency

You have had a previous c-section

Elective - chosen by the mother

Convenience - breech, twins, etc.

So what is a "c-section"?

A cesarean birth - also called a cesarean section or a c-section - is a birth that occurs through an incision cut through the abdominal wall and the uterus of the mother rather than through the natural way - the vagina.

The Cesarean Section Procedure

If you have to undergo a cesarean section know that the whole procedure will take on average 45 minutes to an hour. Your baby will usually be delivered in the first 5 to 15 minutes and the remainder of time will be used for suturing your incision.

This major surgical procedure will happen in three phases:

Pre-surgery

Surgery

Post-surgery

Before you undergo surgery, you will be given some type of anesthetic whether it be general, spinal, or epidural.

A general anesthetic will normally only be used for an emergency cesarean because its effect is immediate.

A spinal or an epidural anesthesia will numb the area from your abdomen to your legs. A catheter will be placed in order to collect any urine while your lower body is numb.

Your doctor will first make a cut*** in your abdominal wall. Your doctor should not cut your muscles but should instead separate them to get to your uterus.

***If you are undergoing an emergency c-section your incision will more than likely be a vertical one - extending from your from your navel to your pubic area - as it allows your doctor to deliver your baby faster.

However, nowadays the most common incision is made horizontally - often referred to as the "bikini cut" - and it will be just above your pubic bone.

***If you plan on having a VBAC the vertical cut - also called the "classic cut" - is NOT recommended. However, be aware that most of the time that cut is no longer done.

Your doctor will then suction the amniotic fluid out and then will deliver your baby.

Your baby's head will be delivered first so that his mouth and nose can be cleaned out to allow for his first breath. Once he is born and out of your body, your newborn baby will be presented to you.

At this time most doctors will pass your baby to a nurse for evaluation, cleaning, etc. IF you do NOT want this, make it very clear. For example, if you want your husband to be handed the baby make sure this is in your birth plan.

After the delivery of your baby, your doctor will deliver your placenta and then the surgical team will begin the close up your incisions.

Once the surgery is over, you may begin to experience some nausea and trembling. This may be caused by:

The anesthesia

The effects of your uterus contracting

From an adrenaline let down

A variation of all three

After this passes, you must be aware that this may be followed by some drowsiness.

If your baby is healthy, he usually will be given back to you at this time. This is the perfect time to start breastfeeding and bonding.

Since you have undergone major surgery you will be monitored closely for any complications. You will also be kept a few extra days. At the time of discharge, you will be advised on the proper post-operative care of your incision. As well as what you can - and cannot - do for the next month in lieu of activities and exercises.

Wow! Maybe you are telling yourself : "it doesn't sound all that bad. Sounds simple...easy...quick..."

But maybe what you should really ask yourself...

Is a Cesarean Procedure Safe?

The answer to that is yes and no.

Huh?

Well, a c-section is a much safer procedure than what it used to be BUT it is not without consequences. C-sections are surgery - and major surgery at that. It is NOT as safe as a vaginal birth for you or your baby.

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