A Cesarean section is a procedure in which a baby is delivered.When a vaginal birth isn't possible, if the mother has delivered previous children by C-section, or if she simply prefers this type of childbirth, this procedure is carried out.Sometimes C-sections are performed on request.If you want to prepare yourself for an emergency C-section, you should know the details of the procedure, get the necessary testing done, and create a hospital plan with your doctor.
Step 1: A planned C-section is performed.
A C-section may be recommended by your doctor due to a medical issue that may affect the health of your baby.If you have certain chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, a C-section may be recommended as a preventative measure.You have a sexually transmitted disease like HIV.The health of your baby is at risk due to an illness or congenital condition.If your baby is too large to travel through the birth canal, your doctor may recommend a C-section.You are overweight.Being obese can lead to other risk factors.The baby can't be turned because she is in the breech position.You had a C-section when you were pregnant.
Step 2: Know how the procedure will be performed by your doctor.
An outline of the procedure will help you prepare for it.Most C-sections follow the same steps.To collect urine at the hospital, the staff will clean your abdominal area and insert a catheter into your bladder.You will be given an IV in your arm to give you fluids and medication before and during the procedure.Regional anesthesia numbs the lower part of your body.You will have a chance to see your baby being taken out of the womb if you are awake during the procedure.The medication is injected into the sac surrounding your spine through a spinal block.General anesthesia will be given to you if you need a C-section.Your doctor will make a small cut through your abdominal wall.If your baby needs to be delivered quickly due to a medical emergency, your doctor will make a vertical cut above your pubic bone.Your doctor will open the uterus.95 percent of C-sections occur with a horizontal incision across the lower part of your uterus, as the muscle at the bottom of the uterus is thinner, leading to less bleeding during the procedure.Your doctor may make a vertical cut if your baby is in an unusual position in your uterus.The baby will be delivered by being lifted out of the uterus.Your doctor will use a tool to clear your baby's mouth and nose and then cut the cord.As the doctor lifts your baby out of your uterus, you may feel a tugging sensation.Your doctor will perform a number of procedures, including removing the uterus, checking your reproductive organs, and closing the incisions with sutures.You can nurse your baby on the operating table after meeting your new baby.
Step 3: The risks associated with the procedure should be kept in mind.
Some mothers want a planned C-section.Unless a C-section is necessary, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that mothers and their doctors plan for a vaginal delivery.Before you make a decision on a planned C-section, you should have a discussion with your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.You will lose more blood during a C-section than in vaginal birth, which is considered a major surgery.The recovery time for C-sections is between two and three days.Full healing from major abdominal surgery will take six weeks.If you have a C-section, you are more likely to have problems in the future.Your doctor may recommend that you continue to have C-sections if you are planning on having more than one baby.Depending on where you plan to deliver and the reason for your cesarean, some are candidates to try for a vaginal birth.An adverse reaction to the anesthesia is one of the risks associated with the surgery itself.If you have a C-section, you're at a higher risk of developing blood clot in the veins of your legs, and it's possible the wound from the surgery could become infections.A C-section could lead to medical issues for your baby, including breathing issues like Transient Tachypnea, which can occur during the first few days of birth.C-sections done too early can increase your baby's risk of breathing problems.Your baby is at risk for a surgical injury if your doctor nicks your baby's skin during the surgery.
Step 4: Understand the benefits of the procedure.
A planned C-section can allow you to plan for the birth, have more control over when the baby is born and be able to have some level of predictability.Many mothers don't experience a negative reaction to anesthesia or accidental injury to their abdominal organs if they have a planned C-section.If you have a C-section, there will be no damage to your Pelvic floor, which can lead to bowel issues.If your baby is large, has fetal macrosomia, or is having twins or multiples, your doctor may recommend a C-section as the safest option for your delivery.A C-section reduces the risk of your baby getting an illness.
Step 5: Receive the necessary tests.
Blood tests will be recommended by your doctor to prepare you for the C-section.The tests will give your doctor important information, such as your blood type and your hemoglobin level, that she may use in the event you need a blood transfusion during the surgery.If your medication complicates the surgery, you should tell your doctor.Your doctor will recommend that you talk with an anesthesiologist to rule out any medical conditions that may increase your risk of anesthesia related problems.
Step 6: You can schedule your C-section.
Your doctor will recommend the best time for you to have a C-section based on your medical needs and your baby's needs.Some mothers schedule their C-sections based on their doctor's recommendation.Your doctor will likely suggest a date closer to your due date if you are having a healthy pregnancy.Before you go to the hospital for your C-section, you should fill out pre registration forms and include the date in your birth plan.
Step 7: You should know what to expect the night before the surgery.
You will not be allowed to eat, drink, or smoke after midnight, so your doctor should discuss the protocol with you.Do not drink water if you have a small piece of food.It is important to get a good night's sleep before the surgery.If you shave your pubic hair before going to the hospital, you can increase your chances of getting an infectious disease.If you have to have your pubic hair shaved at the hospital, the nursing staff can do it.If you have an iron deficiency, your doctor may recommend that you increase your iron intake through iron rich foods and supplements.If you have a C-section, you will lose blood and have high levels of iron that will help you recover.
Step 8: Decide who will be in the surgery room.
Before, during, and after the C-section, you should let your spouse or support person know what to expect.If your spouse or support person will be present for the delivery and if he or she will stay with you and your baby after the surgery, you should specify that.The support person can sit next to you during the surgery and take pictures of the birth.A support person should be in the room with you during the delivery.
Step 9: Stay in the hospital for at least two to three days.
As the anesthesia wears off, you will be given a pump that will allow you to adjust the dose of the pain medication via your IV.Your doctor will encourage you to get up and walk after your C-section as this will speed up your recovery and help prevent blood clot.You will be monitored by the nursing staff for signs of an infection, as well as how much fluid you are drinking and how your bladder and bowels are functioning.As skin-on-skin contact and breastfeeding are important bonding moments between you and your baby, you should start breastfeeding as soon as you feel well enough.
Step 10: Discuss pain medication and home care with your doctor.
Before you leave the hospital, your doctor should give you an outline of any pain medications you can take and any preventative care you might need, such as vaccinations.Your vaccinations should be up to date to protect you and your baby.If you are breastfeeding, you should ask your doctor for medications that are safe for you and your baby.The uterus shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size, called lochia, when your doctor explains the "involution" process.Bleeding of bright red blood can take up to six weeks.You will need to wear extra-absorbent menstrual pads, often provided by the hospital after delivery, as you recover.
Step 11: As you heal at home, take care of yourself and your baby.
It can take one to two months to recover from a C-section so take it slow at home and limit your physical activity level.Do not do housework if you lift anything heavier than your baby.If you are doing too much activity, use your lochia bleeding to gauge your activity level.The bleeding will change from pale pink to light in color over time.Do not use feminine hygiene products until you stop bleeding.Don't have sex until your doctor says it's safe.Drink lots of water and eat a balanced diet to stay hydrated.This will help heal your body.You don't have to get up often if you keep the changing station and feeding supplies close to you.If you have abdominal pain or a high temperature, you should be on alert.You should see your doctor if you start to experience these symptoms.