C section is an operation done for a baby’s delivery. The doctor makes a cut in the bikini line and the womb. Hence, they will take out the baby from the cut. This type of delivery is common. And to help you know more, here are some facts about it.
1. There are Two Types
Cesarean delivery may be planned or emergency. Planned is the type where you already know that you will have this procedure even before labor. The other type usually happens at short notice. The doctor may decide that it is the safest way during delivery.
The planned c section usually starts from week 39. Doctors do this because babies born earlier than this are not yet fully developed outside the womb. You may also have the procedure earlier as doctors perform it for medical reasons. A possible reason may be because of problems with the placenta.
In some cases, the baby might be in an unusual position. It is also common among mothers who expect more than one baby. Some other reasons include diseases that the mother may have. Doctors advise this to those who have HIV. Hence, it is to prevent passing the virus to the baby.
Emergency cesarean happens when labor does not start. Therefore, it is especially the case for women who are already past their due date. It will also be done if you experience bleeding.
2. They Come with Risks
Cesarean delivery is a major procedure. It comes with certain risks that include blood loss and infection. You may also have a higher risk of injury to nearby organs. There’s a higher risk of blood clots in this type of delivery than in the normal one. Babies may have a cut during delivery. They may also need breathing support after delivery. However, it is more common among babies who came out before the 39th week of pregnancy. Most breathing problems will get better after a few days. Some babies may have to stay longer in the hospital.
Scar tissue forms after surgery. Hence, it may cause your placenta to grow deeply. Also, it can be life-threatening because it comes with blood loss. You also have a higher risk of getting your organs removed. It is the case with repeated C sections.
3. Recovery Time is Longer
Women who have had a cesarean must stay in the hospital for three or four days. Therefore, it is longer than the usual 1 to two days after normal delivery. The recovery is also longer. Most women can go back to their routine within one to two weeks after normal delivery. However, it is not the case for the other. Women may have to recover for one to two months.
Doctors will advise no heavy lifting for the first two weeks. You may have to ask someone to drive you around. Driving is also prohibited in some cases. You can only exercise through light walking for about four weeks. Doctors will also recommend not to engage in sex for six weeks after the procedure.
4. It is more Painful
C section may be the choice for women who do not want to have pain when giving birth. However, the pain usually lasts longer in surgery. It will mostly be in the abdomen. You will have a hard time getting in and out of bed. You may also find it difficult to cough, sneeze, and laugh. The pain may make it harder for you to look after your baby.
Of course, normal delivery comes with its pain. But afterward, the feeling is more of a soreness. And it heals very quickly.
5. You will have a scar
The cut will run from your bikini line up to the bellybutton. Hence, it is usually 10 centimeters long. Some cases may need a longer cut. It happens when the delivery is difficult. Difficult delivery may be the result of twins or large babies.
6. It may or may not happen again with another child
Moreover, it is still possible for a woman to have a normal delivery known as vaginal birth. The type of delivery with another child will not always be the same with one child. It will depend on different situations. Doctors highly recommend normal delivery after cesarean. However, they will respect your decision if this is not possible or do not want it.
