Is Caesarean Section (C- Section) a necessarily the last resort for delivery? What are the reasons for recommending C-section?
C-Section is a very safe procedure, normally performed if it is evident that a vaginal birth cannot be optimally acheived. The reasons for this can be related to the following factors:
Baby factors
Baby in an unfavorable position ( presentation) such as breech or transverse.
Large baby, usually in excess of 4.0kg.
A compromised baby, such as a growth retarded baby or a baby who has passed motion(meconium), fetal distress during labour.
Multiple pregnancy, such as twins or triplets.
Mother factors
medical illness such as severe hypertension, heart disease etc.
certain obstetric condition such as placenta praevia.
Slow progress of labour.
Maternal request or “Horoscope Baby".
What are the short term and long term risks of C-section?
In the age of modern obstetrics and advances in anaesthesia and antibiotics, C-Section is extremely safe. However, like all operations, there are risks involved.
Short Term
wound infection.
bleeding leading to blood transfusion.
pain at operation site.
risks of anaesthesia.
risk of Transient Tachypnoiec of Newborn (TTN), which is a short duration of breathing difficulties in newborns due to secretions in the lungs.
Long Term
adhesions (scarring).
scar rupture especially during normal delivery after C-section.
Can pregnant women opt for C-Section?
Yes, most doctors would allow C - Section on demand. However, the couple should be well counseled with regards to the risk-benefit ratio of this mode of delivery. They must also be aware that her next delivery should she get pregnant again would very likely be a C- Section as well.
Disclaimer
For Patients: The health information provided in this website is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician for your own specific medical condition.
For Health Professionals: While efforts has been made to get the relevant experts in each topic to contribute, the views and opinions of authors expressed in this section do not necessarily reflect those of the OGSM.
