The Cesarean Section FAQ

Frequently asked questions regarding Cesarean Section are:
What are the indications that one needs a Cesarean?

Following are the commonest indications for a cesarian operation:

• Prolapsed cord (where the cord comes down before the baby)
• Placenta abruptio (where the placenta separates before the birth)
• Placenta previa (where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix)
• Fetal malpresentation (transverse lie, breech )
• Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD), meaning that the head is too large to fit through the pelvis
• Maternal medical conditions
• foetal distress,
• Repeat cesarean

What type of pain relief is offered before and after a cesarean?
-A regional anesthetic (epidural or spinal)
-A general anaesthetic
-A pre- operative sedative is usually avoided because it can reach the baby and make it difficult for the baby to breath.

-Post operatively pain can be reduced by medication.
What is the procedure for a cesarean?

The basic steps followed are:

• A catheter inserted to collect urine
• An intravenous line inserted
• An antacid for your stomach acids
• Monitoring leads (heart monitor, blood pressure)
• Anesthesia
• Anti-bacterial wash of the abdomen, and partial shaving of the pubic hair
• Skin Incision (vertical or midline(most common))
• Uterine Incision
• Breaking the Bag of Waters
• Disengage the baby from the pelvis
• BIRTH!!!! (Accomplished by hand, forceps, or vacuum extractor)
• Cord Clamping and cutting
• Newborn Evaluation
• Placenta removed and the uterus repaired
• Skin Sutured (Usually the top layers will be stapled and removed within 2 weeks.)
• You will be moved to the Recovery Room (If the baby is able s/he can go with you.)

What is an emergency Cesarean?
Done in the cases of

-placental abruption-prolapsed cord-foetal distress

What will be the recovery like?
Everyone's recovery will be different, depending on your age, body type, and general health.

You may be plagued with gas pains from being opened, incisional pain, uterine contractions (your uterus will take time to get back to it's original shape). Do not lift anything heavier than your baby.

Can I breast feed if I had a cesarean?
Certainly you can. It may take some more effort on your part, but do not hesitate to ask for help. Start breast feeding as soon as possible
If I had one cesarean (or more!), will I have to have another cesarean?
Recent studies have shown that there was an over 80% success rate for Vaginal Birth After Caesarian.