Cesarean Birth (C-Section)

Cesarean birth involves removal of the baby through the mother’s abdominal wall. It is used when a vaginal delivery is not possible or there is danger to the baby. There are numerous reasons for Cesarean deliveries. Some are known prior to labor, but many aren’t known until after labor begins and progresses. Any one or a combination of the following conditions can lead to a Cesarean birth.

• Previous Cesarean Birth - The previous scar in the uterus may be weak and allow rupture of the uterus during labor. A trial of labor may be allowed.

• Fetal Distress - The baby’s heartbeat may appear abnormal during labor, indicating possible trouble for the baby.

• Cephalopelvic Disproportion - The baby’s head or body is too large to pass through the birth canal.

• Abnormal Presentations - The baby’s position prevents a normal head-first delivery. The passage of a baby’s legs or buttocks (breech birth), or arm or side (transverse-lie birth) creates a great risk to the baby’s well-being.

• Prolapsed Cord - The baby’s umbilical cord drops out of the vagina ahead of the baby and can endanger it by cutting off its oxygen supply.

• Maternal Bleeding - The placenta can separate from the uterus prematurely and disturb the oxygen supply to the baby. Additionally, the placenta can become positioned over the cervix and prevent passage of the baby.

• Maternal Medical Condition - Toxemia, genital herpes, diabetes, heart disease, severe Rh disease and certain other medical conditions in the mother can lead to a Cesarean birth in some situations.
   

It is important not to feel disappointed or a sense of failure because you could not deliver the baby vaginally. Many mothers feel depressed because of this. Remember, the safety and long-term outlook of the precious infant is ultimately what is important to you.

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