Description

What is Caesarean Section? A caesarean section is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through an incision (cut) made through the mother’s abdomen and uterus. When is a Caesarean Section (C Section) required? If the baby does not progress during labour, a Caesarean Section (C Section) becomes necessary. Abnormal foetal heart tracings and heartbeats may indicate that the baby is in distress. Malformation of the foetus (e.g., face or breech presentation) How long does it take to have a c-section? Your c-section should last 45 minutes to an hour and a half. The extraction of your baby is usually very quick, lasting between 1 and 15 minutes. Suturing your uterus and abdomen closed takes longer. Your C-section gynecologist may also recommend an elective cesarean section for a variety of reasons. Your doctor will explain why this decision was made based on your specific situation and, in some cases, your preferences. You may have had a number of caesarean sections in the past. If your baby is breech (bottom or feet first) and cannot be turned, a vaginal breech birth is not recommended. Your placenta is partially or entirely covering your cervix (opening to the womb). The doctor is unable to turn your baby because the baby is lying sideways (transverse). You’re having twins, with the first baby in a breech position. Reasons for an unplanned caesarean section The following are some of the reasons for an unplanned (emergency) caesarean birth: During labour, your baby’s head does not move down or “fit” through your pelvis. Your labour does not progress because your contractions are insufficiently strong and your cervix opens slowly or not at all. Your baby is in distress, or their health is in risk. After your waters have broken, the umbilical cord, which supplies vital nutrients and oxygenated blood to your baby, has prolapsed through the cervix and into the vagina. A medical condition, such as high blood pressure, makes labour more risky for you and your baby. How long does it take to recover from c-section? A C-section is major surgery, and your body will require time to recover. Expect to be in the hospital for three to four days following your delivery (longer if complications arise), and allow your body up to six weeks to fully heal.