Caesarean Section

A Caesarean section, often abbreviated as C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. The name “Caesarean” derives from the legend that Julius Caesar was born using this method, although historical evidence suggests it was likely not the case.
The procedure typically involves administering regional anesthesia (such as an epidural or spinal block) to numb the lower half of the body while keeping the mother awake. A horizontal incision is then made in the lower abdomen, usually just above the pubic hairline, and another incision is made in the wall of the uterus. The baby is carefully delivered through these incisions, followed by the placenta. The incisions are then closed with stitches or staples. While a C-section is generally considered safe, it is major abdominal surgery and carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

This procedure is typically performed when a vaginal delivery is deemed unsafe or not possible for the mother or the baby. Common reasons for opting for a C-section include:

Failure to Progress: If labor stalls, and the cervix fails to dilate despite contractions, a C-section may be necessary to safely deliver the baby.

Fetal Distress: When monitoring indicates that the baby is in distress and needs to be delivered quickly to avoid potential complications.

Malpresentation: If the baby is not positioned headfirst in the birth canal (breech position), or is lying sideways (transverse position), a C-section may be recommended.

Multiple Births: In cases of twins, triplets, or other multiples, a C-section may be safer than a vaginal delivery.

Maternal Health Concerns: Certain maternal health conditions, such as active genital herpes, placenta previa, or previous C-section with a vertical incision, may necessitate a C-section.

While a C-section is generally considered safe, it is major abdominal surgery and carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Recovery from a C-section may also take longer compared to a vaginal delivery, with potential discomfort at the incision site and limitations on physical activity during the healing process.