What is A C-Section?
Curious about what is a c-section? A c-section, also known as a Cesarean Section, is a surgical procedure whereby the baby is surgically removed from the mother’s womb. The procedure is done in a hospital operating room under sterile conditions and can be scheduled in advance or it can be done as a last minute change in birthing plans.
There are several reasons why you might require a cesarean section or make the decision to have a c-section instead of a vaginal delivery. For example, your doctor might schedule a c-section for you if the baby will be too large to pass safely through the pelvis. Complications can result if the baby gets trapped in the birth canal.
Secondly, the baby itself can be the reason for a cesarean section. Sometimes the baby’s heartbeat can slow down significantly during contractions suggesting that there could be an issue with the umbilical cord. Such fetal distress results in a c-section if it can’t be resolved any other way.
The baby’s position can warrant a c-section. If the baby is breech (butt first) or face up in the birth canal, a vaginal delivery is difficult. Sometimes the physician will try to turn the baby but if they cannot, a c-section will be needed.
There are a few other reasons that can prompt a cesarean section. Overall, the c-section procedure is done in any case where it would be dangerous or life-threatening not to do so. Once the doctor tells you that a c-section will be performed, here is what will happen.
During the actual c-section procedure you will most likely remain awake. This way, the doctors can communicate with you and you can see your baby when (s)he is born. If you will be awake for the procedure you will receive a spinal or epidural block. This anesthesia will prevent you from feeling any pain in your lower body during the c-section. It is not mandatory that you be fully awake, in fact depending on your health or other circumstances, you may be given a local anesthesia that puts you completely under. The anesthesia used depends on your personal circumstance and preference.
The procedure requires a horizontal incision (most common) or vertical incision be made in your abdomen. This allows the doctor access to your uterus. From there, a horizontal incision is made in the body of your uterus so the doctor can remove the baby. You might feel movement and some pressure as the baby is lifted from your womb, but not pain.
Your doctor will cut the umbilical cord, clean out the baby’s mouth and nose and remove the placenta. You can see your baby at this point but he will probably be removed from the room while the doctor stitches your incisions.
With the c-section procedure, the baby can be removed quicker to prevent or stop complications. There are several reasons why a physician would recommend a c-section over vaginal delivery. Know that any decision made will be for the best interest of you and your baby.
A first time c-section generally takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Subsequent c-sections can a little longer but most procedures are completed well within about 45 minutes. Once your physician stitches you up and there are no complications, you will remain in the hospital for 2-3 days. After that you are ready to start your c-section recovery at home.
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