The majority of babies born to healthy pregnant women with no risk factors for problems during labor or delivery arrive through the birth canal vaginally. However, babies being born by cesarean section are definitely on the rise in the United States. There has been an increase of more than 40 percent since 1996.
Experts determine that nearly half of all c-sections are unnecessary, and the United States government is working to reduce this rate of increased c-sections. During this time it is important for women to gather facts about c-sections before they deliver. Learn what c-sections are and why they are performed. Gather facts concerning the pros and cons of a c-section as well.
How are c-sections performed?
The doctor will make a cut in mother’s abdomen and uterus and remove the baby. Therefore, the baby is delivered through surgery instead of from the vagina. Typically, a woman is given spinal or epidural anesthesia during a c-section to allow her to stay awake without feeling pain. In some instances, a general anesthesia may be required, and the woman is asleep during the surgery.
C-sections can save the life of baby or mother if health problems come up before or during labor and delivery. A c-section can get the baby out very quickly and the result is a healthy mother and baby. However, a c-section is a “major” surgery and all surgeries carry specific risks that include:
• Infection
• Dangerous bleeding
• Blood transfusions
• Blood clots
In addition, women who have c-sections generally stay in the hospital longer than women who have vaginal deliveries. Recovery takes longer and is sometimes more painful.
A c-section should ONLY be done when the health of the baby or mother is in danger.
There have been limited studies done on c-sections, which suggest a c-section may outweigh the risks when:
• A mother is carrying more than one baby
• A mother has health problems including HIV infection, herpes infection and heart disease
• A mother has dangerously high blood pressure
• Problems with shape of mother’s pelvis
• Problems with the placenta
• Problems with the umbilical cord (such as being wrapped around the baby’s neck)
• Problems with position of baby such as a breech presentation
• The baby is showing signs of distress such as slowed heart rate
• Mother had a previous c-section
Source: National Institutes of Health
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.
By Connie Limon
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