7 Complications That May Force You To Get A C-Section

Cesarean delivery commonly known as C-section involves surgical procedures to deliver a baby by making incisions in the uterus and in the abdomen. 

This procedure can be planned before delivery in case you develop complications during pregnancy. Additionally, if you already had a C-section before and are not considering vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), then it can be planned.

However, until the pregnant woman goes into labour, C-section for the first time is not fixed. Read further to find out the reasons why a doctor may advise you to go for a   C-section delivery and to know all about cesarean delivery. 

7 Common Reasons For Women To Get C-Section

There are certain situations which make C-section safer than vaginal delivery for the mother and baby. Let’s look at some of the complications where a C-section becomes the only option for delivery-

1. Labour Stops or isn’t Progressing

When the labour stops or gets stalled, there might be the need for an emergency c-section. The cervix does not open even if there are strong contractions that happen over several hours when there is stalled labour.

2. You Have a Health Concern

In case you have a serious health condition like a heart or brain condition, you might need to get a C-section. Additionally, if during labour there is an active genital herpes then too, C-section is recommended.

3. You’ve Had a Previous C-section

It is possible to do a VBAC after considering the type of uterine incision and other factors. However, in certain cases you might be recommended a C-section again.

Some circumstances under which VBAC can be too risky are:

• When the body mass index is equal to or higher than 30 
• High blood pressure during pregnancy known as preeclampsia
• When age is usually above 35
• The previous cesarean was done in less than 19 months
• Large size of the fetus

4. Mechanical Obstruction

In case there is an obstruction in the birth canal because of a large fibroid or a pelvic fracture that is severely displaced, then you might be recommended C-section.  In some cases, the baby might have severe hydrocephalus, a condition which causes the head to be unusually large.

5. Prolapsed Umbilical Cord

A C-section might be recommended if the umbilical cord gets pinched or the loop of umbilical cord enters through your cervix before your baby.

6. Problem with the Placenta

If the placenta separates from the uterine wall too soon or covers the opening of your cervix.

7. Abnormal Position of the Baby or Babies 

The ideal normal position of the baby to pass down the birth canal is the head down and the body of the baby facing towards the mothers back which makes normal delivery possible.

But in an abnormal position the baby is facing forward, if the baby is in an abnormal position, then normal delivery is not recommended. Additionally, if the baby’s feet or buttocks enter the birth canal first, C-section is considered safer. 

Some additional complications that need cesarean delivery include-

• Large size of the baby
• Premature labour
• When epidural is used
• Inactive maternity
• Allergic to certain drugs or medications
• Blood cell count is low
• Obesity
• Emergency complications

Risks of C-section Birth

While C-sections are common and generally safe for the mum and baby, there may be certain risks of the surgery.  Some of the risks are:

• Blood clots
• Heavy bleeding before and after delivery, referred to as postpartum hemorrhage. In rare cases, this might require transfusion of blood.
• Wound infection which can be prevented by antibiotics 
• Injury in the bladder or bowel
• Adverse reactions to medicines
• Surgical injuries in rare cases
• Baby might get injuries
• Death in very rare cases
  

FAQ

How Long Does it Take to Recover After C-Section?

It normally takes up to six weeks to recover. However, the healing journey can vary for each one getting C-section. The incisions made on the lower abdomen take a few weeks to heal.

What Kind Of Care Should Be Taken After C-Section?

During the recovery process, it is common to feel fatigue and discomfort. Hence, here are some things you can do to heal-

• Rest and Stay Organised. When you can, take rest and try keeping everything needed for yourself and your baby within reach. During the first few weeks, avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby and avoid lifting anything in a squatting position.
  
• Avoid having Sex. C section makes you prone to developing infections. Hence, avoid sex for six weeks after it.
  
• Use Doctor Recommended Products for Pain Relief. The incision done during the surgery causes soreness for which your doctor will most likely recommend a heating pad, Tylenol, ibuprofen or other medications for pain relief. These medicines are safe for breast-feeding women too.
  
  C-section is safe for birth but you need to be careful about any signs of infection. Contact your doctor if you get fever, worsening pain, swollen or leaking discharge and heavy bleeding. 

Some mothers also develop postpartum depression after delivery and it is important for them to communicate with their healthcare provider. 

DISCLAIMER: We have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared above; however, it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. Please check with either your doctor, or an expert, before trying any suggestion, practice, or medication mentioned here.

Cover image credit – Peanut App