C-sections are one of the most common birth procedures worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, a rising trend of cesarean section deliveries has been observed in Pakistan, with over 26% of the deliveries through a C-section. So, it may be a good idea to equip yourself with some basic insight into what you can expect if you are to go down that path, like many other mothers!
1) Understanding C-section
A cesarean section is a medical operation that involves delivering a baby through an incision in the abdominal wall and uterus. Medical difficulties, fetal distress, breech presentation, or just personal preference are among the causes of a C-section. A surgical team consisting of an obstetrician, anesthesiologist, and nurses performs C-sections in a sterile operating room.
2) Preparing for C-section
You will be requested to remove any jewelry, nail polish and change into a hospital gown prior to the C-section. To give fluids and drugs, an IV line will be placed. The anesthesiologist will go over your anesthesia options, which will usually be epidural or spinal anesthesia, which will numb your lower body while keeping you awake during the treatment.
3) Entering the operating room
You'll be taken to the operation room after being prepped and given anesthesia. To prevent you from seeing the surgical area, a screen will be placed across your chest. Depending on hospital standards, your partner or a support person may be permitted to accompany you into the room.
4) The surgical procedure
The surgeon will create an incision along the bikini line, usually horizontally. Access to the abdominal muscles and the uterus is provided by the incision. The layers will then be carefully opened by the surgeon, revealing the baby. To safely deliver the baby, a second incision will be made in the uterus.
5) Birth
You may feel pressure and tugging sensations during the C-section, but you should not feel pain owing to the anesthesia. You may hear your baby's first cry as the surgeon carefully brings them out. Before cutting the umbilical cord that connects the baby to you, the medical staff will swiftly examine the baby's health.
6) Closure of Incision
The incisions will be properly closed when the baby is born. Stitches will be utilized to join the muscle and tissue layers, and the skin incision may be closed with stitches, staples, or adhesive strips.
7) Recovery
After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area within the operating room. Here, the medical team will monitor your vital signs and ensure that the anesthesia is wearing off safely. You might feel some discomfort as the numbness subsides. You'll be transferred to the postpartum unit after you're stable. A hospital stay of 2 to 4 days is usual following a C-section. During this time, you will be given pain medication, antibiotics, and instructions on how to care for your incision. It is critical to move around and walk as soon as possible following surgery to avoid complications. However, a long-term C-section recovery might take several weeks to a few months. You should avoid heavy lifting, vigorous activity, and driving until your healthcare physician clears you. Your incision will gradually heal and fade into a tiny, pale scar.
With all the information on what you could expect during a c-section, we hope you feel more relaxed about the procedure and the involved nitty gritty. Remember, whatever way you give birth, as long as both you and your baby are happy and healthy, everything is fine!
