10 Most Common Medical Reasons For a C-Section
Medical reasons for a C-section
C-section is also called Cesarean delivery. Cesarean is a surgical procedure that is used to deliver the baby through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It is usually performed when there are some pregnancy complications that make vaginal delivery difficult or put the expectant mother or her baby at risk. C-section is very common nowadays but it poses more risks than vaginal delivery. C-section may be scheduled in advance due to some medical reasons or it can be performed if complications arise during labor. Some of the most common medical reasons for a C-section is:
1. Abnormal Positioning
If the baby is positioned in a head-down position (cephalic presentation) then vaginal delivery is safe but if the baby is in a breech position or transverse position then vaginal delivery can become complicated. So, a cesarean is the safest way to deliver in such conditions especially for those women who're carrying multiples.2. Prolonged Labor
Prolonged labor is also referred to as "failure to progress" or "stalled labor". It occurs when a first-time mom is in labor for 20 hours or more and 14 hours in the case of women who've previously given birth. In the case of carrying multiples, prolonged labor is the labor that lasts more than 16 hours. Prolonged labor happens due to the following reasons:- Slow effacement of the cervix during the latent phase of labor.
- If the baby is too big and can't move through the birth canal.
- If the baby is in an abnormal position.
- The uterine contractions are very weak.
- The birth canal or women's pelvis is too small.
3. Fetal Distress
Fetal distress is a complication that occurs when a baby experiences oxygen deprivation. Oxygen deprivation can lead to changes in the baby's heart rate, decreased fetal movement, or meconium in the amniotic fluid.
(Also read: 9 Superfoods For Breastfeeding Moms)
4. Birth Defects
Doctors might perform cesarean delivery for the babies who're diagnosed with birth defects to reduce further complications during delivery.5. Chronic Health Condition
Doctors may suggest cesarean delivery to those pregnant women who're suffering from certain chronic health conditions such as heart disease, gestational diabetes, or high blood pressure as vaginal delivery may pose risk for expectant mothers with any of these conditions.The doctors will also suggest cesarean delivery if pregnant women have HIV, genital herpes, or any other infection that can be transferred to the baby through vaginal delivery.
6. Cephalopelvic Disproportion (CPD)
Cephalopelvic Disproportion (CPD) is a pregnancy complication in which the expectant mother's pelvis is too small to deliver the baby vaginally or the baby's head is too large for the birth canal. The doctors may suggest cesarean in such conditions as the baby can't pass through the vagina safely.7. Placental Complications
Doctors will perform a cesarean for pregnant women with placental complications such as placenta previa (low-lying placenta) or placenta abruption. Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication in which the placenta covers part or all the cervix and this condition can cause severe bleeding before or during labor.8. Multiple Births
Carrying twins or multiples can pose some risks during pregnancy. It can cause prolonged labor, or one or more babies can be in an abnormal position. Then C-section is the safest way to deliver the babies.
(Also read: Mango benefits and side effect in pregnancy)
9. Umbilical Cord Prolapse
Umbilical Cord Prolapse is a complication that occurs when the umbilical cord comes out of the uterus with or before the presenting part of the fetus. It poses a great risk for the fetus as a fetus can put pressure on the cord during the delivery process that can result in a lack of oxygen supply to the fetus. That's why umbilical cord prolapse is considered an emergency condition and doctors perform cesarean in such cases.10. Previous Cesarean Delivery
Some women can have a safe vaginal delivery after they've had a cesarean in the past. This procedure is called Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). You can consult your health care provider to know your chances of giving birth through VBAC.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the reasons for C-section?
There are several reasons for a C-section. Some of the most common reasons for a C-section are prolonged labor, carrying multiple gestations, placental issues such as placenta previa or placenta abruption, abnormal positioning, fetal distress.
2. What are the risks associated with C-section?
C-section poses some risks that include:
- Blood Loss
- Blood Clot
- Wound Infection
- Bowel or Bladder injury
- Endometritis
3. What are the types of cesarean section?
There are two types of cesarean section depending on the direction of incision on the abdomen:
- Transverse C-Section or Bikini Cut (Horizontal side-to-side incision in the lower abdomen)
- Classic C-Section (Vertical incision from the navel to the pubic line)
(Also read: Chia Seeds During Pregnancy - Safe or Unsafe?)
4. How long does a C-section last?
A cesarean section procedure usually lasts for 45 minutes to an hour.
5. How long is the C-section scar?
C-section scar is about 4 to 6 inches long.
Watch this video to know all of the most common medical reasons for cesarean delivery.
Hey, ladies don't get panic and just enjoy your pregnancy phase. Here's wishing you all a very happy, safe, and healthy pregnancy.
Also, read other pregnancy-related articles :
Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and it should not be used as the basis of patient treatment. The given content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or any diagnosis. Always consult a doctor for more information. Our website doesn't claim responsibility for this information.
No comments