CESAREAN SECTION (DELIVERY)
What Is Cesarean Section (Delivery)?
The form of birth where the baby is taken out by making an incision in the abdomen and uterus is called “cesarean section“. Sudden changes in the health of the baby and mother can occur near birth or during pregnancy. In such cases, a cesarean section should be performed instead of the normal, that is, vaginal delivery method. It should be done by professional gynecologists to avoid any harm to the baby or the mother. It is applied in cases where vaginal delivery is not safe, the previous child was born by cesarean section and complications that may occur during normal delivery. It can also be preferred in case the baby dies during pregnancy. In 1881, German gynecologist Ferdinand Adolf Kehrer performed the first modern cesarean section. It is preferred by many expectant mothers because it takes a shorter time and is painless compared to normal delivery.
How Is Cesarean Section (Delivery) Performed?
Cesarean section is a surgical operation. The procedure is carried out under spinal or epidural anesthesia. General anesthesia can also be applied if the mother has any problems (feeling pain, increased blood pressure). First, the vascular access is opened. In this way, the fluids and drugs to be given before and after the surgery are administered in this way. Epidural or spinal anesthesia is applied by administering medication with the help of a needle from the lumbar region. A catheter is placed in the bladder for urine. After wiping from the abdomen up to the knee with an antiseptic solution, it is covered and cesarean section is started. During this procedure, an incision of 11-15 cm is made in the lower part of the abdomen. After the abdominal folds are passed, another incision is made in the area where the uterus is. After the incision, the baby is removed from the uterus within seconds. The cord is cut and delivered to the nurse. The pediatrician, who is on standby, checks the baby. If there is no problem, the doctor will go to the room with your husband. At this time, your doctor removes the placenta and starts the process of suturing the incision. As Istanbul Gyno, We have been serving you with best gynecologists since 2010. You can always contact with us.
When Is Cesarean Section (Delivery) Necessary?
Cesarean section is used in cases such as:
- The cervix does not open sufficiently despite contractions for hours,
- The baby’s head is in a different position in the womb, not downwards,
- The mother-to-be had a previous cesarean section,
- Incorrect positioning of babies in pregnancies such as twins or triplets,
- Excessive vaginal bleeding of the expectant mother,
- Inability of the baby to get enough nutrients and oxygen,
- The placenta stops to cover the cervix,
- The umbilical cord wraps around the baby’s neck,
- Having a serious disease in vital organs such as the brain and heart in the expectant mother,
- The mother-to-be has diabetes or hypertension,
- Having active genital herpes infection of the expectant mother,
- Hip fracture and large fibroid tissue causing narrowing of the birth canal,
- The baby itself or having a large head.
How Long Does Cesarean Section (Delivery) Take?
Although each birth may vary depending on the mother and the baby, a cesarean section takes an average of 30-45 minutes. This period includes the preparation phase. Conditions such as pre-operative anesthesia preparations and necessary tests may prolong the duration. This period is valid for planned and unproblematic surgeries. Emergency deliveries can be completed in a very short time. Extra intervention may be required if the fibroids are cleared or an unexpected situation occurs during delivery. This results in a prolongation of the birth period.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Cesarean Delivery?
Advantages of Cesarean Section (Delivery)
- It is the birth where the baby is born with the least risk.
- Encountering risks is very rare.
- Birth time is much shorter.
- Since the mother will receive local or general anesthesia, she does not feel pain or pain.
- Since the baby is brought into the world by taking it from the abdomen, not by advancing in the uterine canal, there will be no deformations in the uterine region.
Disadvantages of Cesarean Section (Delivery)
- While it does not pose a risk to the baby, it may pose a risk to the mother.
- Various complications may develop.
- Since open surgery is performed, there is a risk of infection.
- Organ injuries may occur.
- A hernia may occur in the operation area.
- Recovery occurs much later than normal delivery.
- Adhesion may occur in the abdomen due to surgery.
- The baby’s communication with the mother is delayed.
- Infants have a higher rate of respiratory distress.
- The baby’s breastfeeding success will be lower.
What is the Recovery Process After Cesarean Section (Delivery)?
Recovery may take a little longer due to the incision made during cesarean delivery. It may also take more time to lose weight after delivery. In case the mother and baby get through the process normally after the surgery, they will stay in the hospital for 1 or 2 days. It may take several weeks for the mother to return to daily life. In this process, the movements of the mother are very important. Movements such as lifting, bending and stretching that will force the suture area may cause the recovery period to be longer. Using the medications given by the doctor after cesarean delivery on time minimizes the risk of infection.