7 Important Things You Should Know About A C-Section

6 years ago Baby Destination Editor

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If you are due to deliver your baby, you are probably already overwhelmed with many small details. However, there is one important thing that most women leave out until the last minute and that is, gathering information on the C-section delivery. In this article, you will find important things you should know about a C-section.

Now, if you have voluntarily chosen this method, then you probably know a few details already. But if you are looking at natural birth, there is always a chance of an emergency C-section and it is best to be well informed about what happens during the procedure and what to expect afterwards.

7 things you should know about a C-section

#1. This is not a minor procedure

One of the most important things you should know about a C-section is that, just because it is common, does not mean that C-section is a minor surgery. There are several risks involved such as injuries to organs surrounding the uterus, loss of blood and infections. Blood clots are also more common in C-sections in comparison to vaginal birth.

As for the baby, there are chances of cuts or lacerations. Some may even require respiratory support after delivery.

Also Read: 10 Necessary Precautions to be taken after a C-Section

#2. You will most probably only get a local anesthesia

Unless it is an extremely complicated case, there is no need for general anesthesia in case of a C-section. You are given local anesthesia to numb you from the spinal cord to the legs. You may feel some pressure around the abdomen while this procedure is taking place. However, you will not experience any kind of pain. You may experience some headache following the procedure. But, that is quite common and eases away later.

#3. You may experience vaginal bleeding and other things associated with natural birth

You may experience bleeding after childbirth even though the baby did not actually pass through the vaginal canal. You will face other issues such as irregular bowels or constipation. Eating foods that are rich in fiber is highly recommended during this period to aid recovery and to give you some relief. Make sure you drink a lot of water. If these symptoms are strong, you will also be given medication to alleviate them.

#4. The immunity of the child may be low

This is not true in all cases.
However, with natural birth, the baby is colonized with the symbiotic microbes or flora in the intestine and the vagina. This can keep the baby safe from several infections, all through his life. While this is still a subject that is under scrutiny, it is true that the chance of allergies, low immunity, and obesity are higher in children delivered through a C-section in comparison to those who have had a natural, vaginal birth.

Also Read: Why are caesarean births increasing in India?

#5. Recovery is longer and more painful

This is quite ironic as most women opt for C-section because they believe that it is less painful. While the delivery itself may not be as painful, the recovery is a long and tiring journey. You may experience pain when you move, try to cough, laugh, or even sneeze. You are mostly required to stay in the hospital for about four to seven days in case of a C-section.

For women who opt for vaginal birth, they experience a sort of soreness. They are usually back to their old self in a couple of weeks. In case of a C-section, this recovery can take a couple of months.

#6. You will have a scar

You will have an incision just above your pubic bone. The cut then goes up the belly button and is usually about 10cms long. It can be covered by your clothes. Even with swimwear, this scar is not really seen.

However, if you have twins or have any particular complication, you may need a larger incision. The good news is that the sewing techniques are a lot more advanced these days. While the scar will still exist, it may not be as prominent as it used to be earlier. The doctors today attempt to reduce scarring as much as possible by closing the wound with some techniques that are even used by plastic surgeons.

#7. You can still have a vaginal birth with your next child

Most women believe that having first delivery by C-section means that you will have to repeat this with every child. Depending on the circumstances that you required the first surgery under, you can still have a vaginal birth with your next child.

Whether C-section is recommended to you or you opt for it voluntarily, make sure you or one of your family members has a thorough conversation with the doctor to understand the circumstance for surgery and the process of recovery correctly.

Also read: The Risks And Benefits Of A Scheduled C-Section

You will have to make it a point to have the incision monitored for a few weeks after the surgery. Getting good rest, proper nutrition and having the right medical support will improve your rate of recovery tremendously.

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