Cesarean (C-SECTION) Birth
A cesarean section is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby.
Indications for Cesarean Birth:
Emergency Cesarean: Due to complications during labor.
Scheduled Cesarean: Planned in advance for various reasons, such as breech presentation or medical conditions.
The Cesarean Procedure:
Preoperative Preparation:
Medical Evaluation: Before scheduling a c-section, a healthcare provider evaluates the mother's health, fetal well-being, and any indications for the procedure.
Informed Consent: The healthcare provider explains the procedure, its benefits, potential risks, and alternatives. The pregnant individual provides informed consent for the c-section.
Anesthesia Administration: An anesthesiologist administers anesthesia, usually in the form of an epidural or spinal block, to numb the lower half of the body. In some cases, a general anesthetic may be used.
Incision and Delivery:
Preoperative Prep: The surgical area is cleansed, and a sterile drape is placed over the abdomen.
Incision: A horizontal (transverse) or vertical incision is made in the lower abdomen. For a low transverse incision (“bikini” or medically referred to as a pfannenstiel incision), this is typically within or near the pubic hairline. For a vertical midline incision, this is from below your navel to the top of your pubic bone.The type of incision depends on various factors, including the reason for the c-section.
Abdominal Wall and Uterine Incision: The surgeon carefully cuts through the layers of the abdominal wall, including the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle. Subsequently, a uterine incision is made to access the amniotic sac. The type of uterine incision may be different than what you see on your skin. Most uterine incisions are low transverse (across the lower part of the uterus). Your doctor will tell you if you have a different type of uterine incision such as a “classical” incision which is vertical - most women with this type of incision are advised to have cesarean deliveries with future pregnancies.
Amniotic Sac Opening: The surgeon opens the amniotic sac to expose the baby. This allows for the careful delivery of the baby.
Baby Delivery: The baby is gently guided out through the incisions. The timing of the delivery varies, and the healthcare team ensures the baby's well-being throughout.
Placenta Delivery and Closure:
Placenta Removal: After the baby is delivered, the placenta is carefully removed from the uterus.
Uterine Closure: The surgeon stitches the uterine incision to promote healing.
Abdominal Wall Closure: The layers of the abdominal wall are closed, typically with dissolvable stitches.
Skin Closure: The skin incision is closed with stitches or staples. In some cases, surgical glue or adhesive strips may be used.
Postoperative Care:
Recovery Room: The mother is moved to a recovery room where vital signs are monitored, and initial postoperative care is provided. You will, unfortunately, have a nurse push on your uterus to shrink the size. It will be painful, we are so sorry.
Postoperative Monitoring: In the hours following the c-section, the healthcare team monitors the mother's pain, bleeding, and overall well-being.
Postpartum Recovery: The recovery period involves managing pain, gradually resuming mobility, and receiving guidance on postpartum care.
It's important to note that the specific steps and techniques may vary based on the individual circumstances, hospital protocols, and the reason for the c-section. Additionally, the healthcare team, including obstetricians, anesthesiologists, and nurses, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the newborn throughout the c-section procedure.
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