Caesarean Delivery
A C-section, or cesarean section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the abdomen and uterus.
This method is chosen when vaginal delivery is not possible or safe, or when the health of the mother or baby is at risk.
Medical conditions or complications during labor can necessitate a C-section to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.You’ll be under anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. Most people describe a sensation of tugging or pulling when the baby is removed from the abdomen.
What actually happens during a C-section?
The first step in a C-section procedure is preparing you for anesthesia. Most planned C-sections use an epidural, allowing you to be awake for the delivery. However, in some cases, you may be put to sleep under general anesthesia.
Your abdomen will be cleaned with an antiseptic, and you may have an oxygen mask placed over your mouth and nose to increase oxygen to your baby. Next, your provider will place a sterile drape around the incision site and over your legs and chest. Finally, they will raise a sterile curtain or drape between your head and lower body.
The obstetrician will then make an incision through your skin and into the wall of your abdomen. This incision can be either vertical or transverse (horizontal), with the latter also known as a bikini incision.
Next, a 3- to 4-inch incision will be made into the wall of your uterus, which can also be transverse or vertical. The obstetrician will then remove your baby through these incisions. Afterward, the umbilical cord is cut, the placenta is removed, and the incisions are closed with stitches and staples.
Emergency C-sections follow the same steps, but the baby is delivered more quickly. During a planned C-section, delivery takes about 10 to 15 minutes, while in an emergency, the baby can be delivered within a few minutes.
If you are awake during your C-section, you will be able to see and hold your baby shortly after birth.
What happens after a C-section?
Similar to vaginal births, your obstetrician will deliver the placenta after your baby is born. Next, your provider will stitch your uterus and either stitch or staple your abdominal muscles. The stitches will dissolve on their own, but staples will be removed at the hospital about a week later. Your abdomen will be sore for several days or weeks, and in some cases, your provider may prescribe stronger pain medication.
Once you go home, you can expect to limit your activities, take it easy, and rely on family and friends for support. A typical C-section surgery requires at least two to three days in the hospital for recovery.
What are the benefits of a C-section?
How long does a C-section recovery take?
Once the anesthesia wears off, you’ll start to feel the pain from the incisions. You might also experience gas pains and have difficulty taking deep breaths. It’s important to have an adult assist you in getting out of bed during the first several days following C-section surgery. Most people stay in the hospital for two to three days.
A full recovery can take between four and six weeks. Consult your healthcare provider about what to expect during this period. Most providers recommend avoiding stairs, lifting, exercise, and other strenuous activities for several weeks. Ask your friends or partner for help with errands, cooking, and cleaning so you can rest and recover. Your provider may also restrict driving until you can comfortably turn your body and apply pressure to the pedals.
You can expect cramping and bleeding for up to six weeks, along with some discomfort around the incision. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help with the pain. Avoid sex for at least six weeks or until your healthcare provider gives you the go-ahead.
After the surgery, you will also have a vaginal discharge due to the shedding of your uterine lining. This discharge, called lochia, will be red initially and then gradually change to yellow. Be sure to call your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding or a foul odor from the discharge. Use sanitary pads, not tampons, until you’re completely done bleeding.