Although most babies are born naturally via vaginal delivery, about 44 in 100 births are by caesarean section. A caesarean section, or C-section, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen. It is performed when a vaginal delivery isn’t possible or would be unsafe for the mother or the baby. Many C-sections are planned, but emergency C-sections are sometimes necessary. In any case, a C-section does carry more risk than a vaginal delivery and has a longer recovery period.
Planned, Unplanned, and Emergency C-Sections
In some cases, a C-section can be planned ahead of time, usually around the 39th week of pregnancy. A patient might need to schedule a C-section if they have a low-lying placenta that covers the cervix, the baby is in a position that can make vaginal birth difficult or impossible, the mother is having twins or triplets, or there are other health issues that could make a vaginal birth difficult or impossible. This is usually the best-case scenario for someone who may need a C-section since the circumstances around the procedure can be better controlled. The mother also doesn’t go into labor, which may eliminate many of the complications associated with a vaginal birth.
Unplanned C-sections are more common than planned procedures, mostly because the circumstances that call for a C-section often aren’t apparent until the mother is in labor or close to it. In most cases, a mother who undergoes an unplanned C-section was planning on a vaginal birth, but unforseen circumstances require a C-section instead.
The procedure for an unplanned C-section is the same as if the procedure was planned. The biggest difference is that it happens much later in the pregnancy.
Finally, an emergency C-section is performed when there is an immediate concern for the safety of the mother or the baby. The big difference between an unplanned C-section and an emergency C-section is urgency; it’s a medical intervention intended to save a life.
Circumstances that Require an Emergency C-Section
There are several circumstances that may require an emergency C-section. Many of these scenarios are similar to those that call for a planned C-section, but some may only arise when the mother is already in labor and possibly attempting a vaginal birth. One of these scenarios is stalled labor. This is when labor slows down, stops entirely, or doesn’t begin at all. Stalled labor can sometimes be restarted with infusions of oxytocin or other drugs that can strengthen contractions, but an emergency C-section may be ordered if all else fails.
Another common reason for an emergency C-section is when the baby’s head or body is too big relative to the mother’s pelvis to be delivered safely. This is often referred to as cephalopelvic disproportion, and it can put both the mother and baby at risk. It’s also usually something that can be caught before the mother goes into labor, but it is sometimes missed. Doctors usually try different techniques and positions to help the baby move through the birth canal safely before they order a C-section.
A prolapsed umbilical cord may also call for an emergency C-section. This is when the umbilical cord comes out of the birth canal before the baby. If the cord is damaged or wraps around the baby, it can deprive the baby of oxygen should a vaginal birth be attempted. In fact, a C-section may be necessary if the baby shows any signs of distress such as a dropping heart rate or any other poor vital signs.
How a C-Section is Performed
A C-section is a common procedure that doesn’t change much whether it’s planned or unplanned. During the procedure, an obstetrician will make a 10 to 15cm incision in the abdomen at the top of the pubic hairline. This incision will be large enough for the baby. A second incision is then made in the uterus to reach the baby, usually after a delay of about one minute. The baby will then be lifted out, and the umbilical cord will be clamped and cut. The placenta is delivered next, and the incisions are closed with stitches. The entire procedure is performed under a general or local anesthetic. The delivery itself takes about 10 minutes, and it takes between 30 and 40 minutes to close the incisions.
Since a C-section is a major surgical procedure, the recovery time is longer than when a baby is delivered vaginally. The mother usually needs a catheter in their bladder for the first 12 hours after the procedure, but they are encouraged to get out of bed and move around as much as possible once they are able to do so.
Potential Risks
While a C-section is a common procedure, there are risks involved. There is always the risk of severe hemorrhage with major surgery, and there can be complications if the anesthesia is administered too rapidly. There’s also the risk of injury to the mother or the baby, especially if an emergency C-section is necessary. As always, the mother or their family can contact an experienced medical malpractice lawyer like the attorneys at Forbes Law Offices in the event of any complications.
Generally speaking, a vaginal birth is almost always preferred, but C-sections are often necessary. Remember to always listen to your doctor if you are pregnant, and closely monitor your baby. It’s always best to identify any potential complications and schedule a C-section sooner rather than later when it’s necessary.
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