When normal delivery is not possible due to complications in pregnancy, caesarean section or c-section is carried out. Read on to find out when is c-section recommended and how is it performed.Caesarean section is generally planned ahead of time to avoid the rising complications in child birth. However, there are cases when need for a C-section does not get very evident until the labour starts. It is important to have sufficient knowledge about what you should expect before and after a C-section to be better prepared.
What is a Caesarean Section (C-section)?
Whenever a normal vaginal delivery is considered dangerous, or impossible, small horizontal incisions are made in your abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby. This is called caesarean section or abdominal delivery.
When is a C-section Recommended?
Sometimes, when the baby's head is too large to pass through the pelvis, or the baby might be in the wrong position (as in breech) or lying across the pelvis, then a caesarean section is performed. It is also recommended for women with a medical condition like diabetes or preeclampsia. An emergency caesarean section is also performed when something goes wrong during labour, like a haemorrhage or a prolapsed umbilical cord, or foetal distress.
How is a C-section Carried Out?
Nowadays, doctors use a general anaesthetic or an
epidural or spinal block just to numb your pain so that you can enjoy the birthing process. He or she will then make an incision in your abdomen and uterus and open the amniotic sac if it has not ruptured as yet. And then ease the baby out with the help of forceps.
Other Cases when Doctors Suggest a C-section
These are some of the circumstances when a C-section is recommended. Read along for detailed information.
1. When Labour Appears Slow
Slow or stalled labour is said to be the main reason behind a C-section. This happens when the cervix does not open even if you are experiencing strong contractions for long. This also happens when the head of the baby appears too big to travel through the birth canal.
2. In case of Lack of Oxygen Supply
A C-section is highly recommended when the doctors find reduced oxygen supply to the baby. It also becomes an emergency situation when the
heartbeat seems to reduce. A C-section is considered the best option in these cases.
3. When the Baby is in Wrong Position
C-section is considered a safe option when the baby is not in the right position. When the baby is positioned transverse or in a
breech position, a C-section is considered the safest possible way to get him or her out.4. In Case of Twins or Triplets
C-section is generally considered the right solution when you carry twins or triplets. When you carry more than a single baby, there are chances of one of the baby positioned the wrong way.5. In case of Problem with Placenta
C-section becomes a better option when the placenta detaches from the uterus before the onset of labour. Doctors opt for a C-section in these cases.6. In case of Complications with the Umbilical Cord
If your doctor finds a loop in your umbilical cord or in case it gets compressed by the uterus when you experience contractions, a C-section is suggested.7. In Rising Health Concerns
C-section is considered a better option when babies develop complications such as too much fluid in brain or hydrocephalus.8. When you had a C-section Before
There are factors like a C-section before that increases chances of another C-section for the future pregnancy. However, it is also possible to opt for a vaginal delivery once you had a C-section before. It should be left to the doctors to consider the best possible option.Apart from the cases stated above, a C section is performed when mothers want to avoid the labour pains. Planned C-sections need to be worked out with the healthcare provider in the beginning. This shall help him or her decide the best possible solutions for you and your baby.
Risks Associated with C-Section
Although this is considered the best option in many cases, there are some risk factors associated that you should be careful about. Take a look below:
Breathing Concerns
There are chances of babies developing breathing problems when born after a C-section. The surgery is carried out without considering lung development of the child that might increase chances of breathing troubles. Respiratory distress syndrome is a condition that makes it difficult for babies to breathe.
Apart from this, you may too suffer from certain complications like blood clots, wound infection, inflammation of the uterus lining to name a few. So, in case you have any concerns, make sure to bring it up with your doctor.
What are the advantages of caesarean section or c-section? How is caesarean section carried out? What are the risks associated with caesarean section? Discuss here. 
