Cesarean Section Resources
Cesarean sections can happen for multiple reasons.
None are the birthing persons fault!
Cesarean births accounted for around 7% of births in 1990.
As of 2021 Cesarean births are now accounting for more than 1 in 5 (21%) of all childbirths.
Reasons one might need to have a Cesarean birth vary.
Labor that is not progressing according to current norms or policies (aka Labor Dystocia)
Abnormal or indeterminate fetal heart rate
Fetal positions which can pose challenges (ex. breech)
Large baby (aka Macrosomia)
Carrying multiples
The umbilical cord drops through your cervix into your vagina ahead of your baby (aka Prolapsed umbilical cord)
Maternal hemorrhage
Placenta abruption (the placenta peels away from the wall of your uterus)
Uterine rupture (your uterus tears along a previous Cesarean section scar)
DISCLAIMER: All information on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, and does not establish any kind of patient client relationship by your own use of this website. We strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute or any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in the area of your particular needs and circumstances prior to making any medical decisions.
Cesarean births carry short and long-term risks to both the parent and infant.
This is major surgery and as such, there are several risks associated with a cesarean birth.
Hemorrhaging
Infection
Blood clots
Surgical injury to your bladder or intestines
Amniotic fluid embolism (amniotic fluid or fetal material enters the maternal bloodstream)
Inflammation of the uterus
Bleeding
Risks to future pregnancies
Risks to your baby:
Babies born by cesarean are more likely to develop breathing issues, this often occurs because vaginal birth/labor helps clear your baby’s lungs of fluid.
There is also the possibility of accidental nicks and scrapes to your baby during the procedure.
Lastly, there is a chance that your baby will have a bad reaction to your anesthesia.
Some cesarean births are planned and some are unplanned.
In either case informed, clear, communication from your team to you is vital.
Sources:
International Cesarean Awareness Network - https://www.ican-online.org
Web MD, What Happens During A C-Section - https://www.webmd.com/baby/what-happens-during-c-section#1
What Is A Cesarean Section?
A cesarean section is a major surgery.
It consists of incisions made to the abdomen and uterus.
Because of this, recovery from a cesarean can take a bit longer compared to a vaginal birth.
And though all forms of birth are considered a natural birth, we do have to note that the recovery is completely different.
For a detailed explanation on the process of a cesarean in whole, this article from Mayo Clinic does a fantastic job explaining.
Immediate Care For Cesarean Section
It is standard for a hospital to keep you admitted for 2-3 days when having a cesarean.
After surgery and once your anesthesia wears off, you will discuss pain management with your care team
and be expected to stay hydrated and keep your body “moving.”
We put that in quotations because we understand that it will take some time to get moving and that is okay.
Remember to listen to your body and go as slow as you need to.
Keep the incision clean and watch for any signs of infection.
Postpartum Care For Cesarean Section
It may take weeks for the incision to heal and with that will come discomfort.
On top of the plate sized wound in your uterus left from your placenta.
You will still bleed from your vagina after a cesarean section because of this reason.
Take the full six weeks to recover.
Your body needs it now more than ever.
It’s important to keep it clean from infection; showering with mild soap and water will do the trick.
It is recommended to not lift anything more than 25lbs.
If you are breastfeeding, be sure that your pain medication is safe.
Normal v. Abnormal
Aside from the normal signs to look for when healing from childbirth, a cesarean adds a bit more care.
Watch your incision for any signs of infection.
Symptoms may be:
Your incision is red, swollen or leaking discharge
You have a fever
You have heavy bleeding
You have worsening pain