Description of the procedure
A cesarean section is the surgical delivery of a baby. The baby is delivered through an opening made in the abdomen and uterus instead of through the vagina. Cesarean births take place in the hospital. Generally regional anesthetic is used, though in some cases, general anesthetic may be used. Regional anesthetic is anesthetic that goes into the space around the spinal cord.
Either a horizontal (left) incision or a vertical (right) incision can be used in performing a cesarean section. The horizontal incision is more common.
When should this procedure be performed?
A cesarean section delivery may be planned in advance or your doctor may decide during labor that it is necessary. If you have had a previous cesarean section, your doctor may recommend this method for future deliveries due to an increased risk of complications, though vaginal birth is still possible. It is important to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor before labor occurs.
Why is this procedure performed?
Cesarean sections are generally performed if vaginal delivery poses a risk to either the mother or baby. The risk may be due to:
- the baby's position in the uterus
- changes in the baby's heart rate indicating a decreased oxygen supply
- the labor not progressing normally
- problems with the placenta or position of the umbilical cord
- certain health problems of the mother (e.g., active genital herpes) or baby
- an unusually large-sized baby
- presence of more than one baby
- the mother having had a cesarean section in the past (and thus having an increased risk with vaginal birth)
Some women choose to deliver via cesarean section for reasons other than medical ones.
Are there any risks and precautions I should know about?
Delivery via cesarean section poses risks to both the mother and baby.
Risks to the mother include:
- infection, bleeding, and reaction to anesthetic (risks common to all surgeries)
- decreased bowel function, and urinary tract infection in the days following surgery
- endometriosis, a condition where the lining of uterus becomes thick
- blood clots in the legs, lungs or pelvic organs.
- increased risk of uterine rupture with future vaginal births (rarely)
Babies born via cesarean section are more likely to experience rapid breathing during the first few days following birth. Though this condition usually resolves itself with two to three days, the baby may require additional oxygen until then. As well, there is also the risk that the baby can be accidentally nicked during surgery, though this complication is rare.