The Risks And Benefits Of A Scheduled C-Section
Many women opt for a C-section today fearing the pain that comes with a vaginal birth. However, unless there is a complication, normal delivery is recommended. If you have to undergo a scheduled C-section because of any complications, then you should make sure that you know all about this procedure to get rid of any doubt that you may have with respect to your baby’s health and your own health.
Like any other surgery, there are a few major details about scheduled C-section that you should definitely be aware of.
Also read: Can You Give Birth Vaginally After A C-Section?
When Is a C-section Recommended?
A C-section is usually recommended when there is any complication with the birth of the baby or if there is any risk to the mother or the child. A scheduled C-section is usually an indication that there may be some issues or interruptions during the delivery. It is also the procedure opted for when the mother or the baby’s life is at risk.
In some cases, there are two options available to doctors. One is to induce labor and the other one is to schedule a Cesarean delivery. With induced labor there may be other issues like assisted birth which can be avoided by choosing to perform a C-section.
When the choice is not clear, the risks and benefits of C-section are weighed to ensure that the best interest of the baby and the mother are prioritized.
Risks of a C-section
If you have been slated for a scheduled C-section, you should take a look at the risks of having a C-section:
#1. Pain
You may need some pain relief medication until you recover from the surgery. This takes longer to heal in comparison to a vaginal birth. You may not be able to carry out daily activities after a C-section for some time.
Bleeding: The amount of blood that you lose during a C-section is a lot more than the amount of blood that you lose in case of vaginal birth. Bleeding more than the normal amount during the actual procedure is one of the biggest risks with a C-section. This, of course, can be managed with a blood transfusion.
#2. Infection
Stats show that one in 12 women tend to develop infections after a scheduled C-section. This includes infections of the wound, infections in the uterus and urinary tract infections. If the infection is not too severe, it can be managed with some antibiotics.
Also read: 10 Most Common Reasons For A C-Section
#3. Blood clots
Depending upon the location of the blood clot, it can be quite a serious issue. This is why doctors will recommend support socks that will improve blood flow right after your C-section.
#4. Adhesions
There are risks of some adhesions as the wounds heal. These are scar tissues that can cause organs to stick to one another or even to the wall of your stomach. Although this is very rare, it is a risk.
Effects of the anesthetic
You may experience symptoms like a headache or some temporary nerve damage as a result of the anesthetic.
Benefits of a C-section
When a doctor advises C-section, then it is important for you to understand that it is the safest option available for birth. There are several advantages of choosing a C-section:
#1. Know when the baby will arrive
With a scheduled C-section, you are exactly aware of when your baby is going to be born. This is very useful if you already have children. You have the option of preparing for some baby care or to have someone take care of the child when you prepare for the big day.
#2. No painful contractions
For most women, the idea of painful contractions when they are in labor can be very scary. You also don’t have to worry that the area between the perineum and the vagina will be injured while giving birth.
#3. Lesser bleeding
You will not experience heavy bleeding as you would with a normal delivery when you opt for a C-section.
#4. Leaking urine
It is common in women when they laugh or even cough, will not be experienced when you choose a C-section.
Also read: Safe And Simple Exercises To Lose Weight After A C-section
Recovery from C-section
If you are healthy and fit before you go into a C-section, recovery is much faster. There may be some complications such as infections and bleeding that can take longer to recover from. In these cases, you will be advised to stay at the hospital until you have recovered fully. Then, you will be asked to take some medication that will help you heal faster.
Taking ample rest is one of the most important aspects of recovering from a C-section. At the same time, moving around as much as possible will also help prevent common issues like clots that can cause unwanted complications.
Also read: 7 Things You Need To Know About C-Section Delivery
Recovery from C-section is managed by your doctor and requires you to work towards a healthier lifestyle so that you can enjoy the process of taking care of your baby while you heal.
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