A Caesarean section might come about for any number of reasons. It may be decided during your pregnancy that a c-section would be the better option for you and your baby (elective) or the decision to deliver by c-section may come later during labour (emergency).
Reasons for performing a c-section.
- Breech position
- Small pelvis
- Placenta Praevia
- Medical conditions that could be passed to your baby during labour eg hiv or active sti.
- Previous c-section
- Distressed baby
- Failure to progress
Even with some of these conditions, a c-section isn't always the safest option. Your care team should discuss your condition with you, to come to the best decision.
What happens during a c-section?
You will be given an epidural or spinal block to numb you completely (or in some cases a general anesthetic ). A screen is put up in front of you so that you can't see what is going on. You will be swabbed with antiseptic to kill bacteria on your stomach. You will have a drip giving you fluids throughout the operation, and a catheter will be used to drain your bladder. The surgeon makes a cut along your bikini line horizontally, and then in the same place on your womb. The amniotic fluid is sucked away as it drains, and the baby lifted out. They remove the placenta, then stitch you back together again! The whole thing takes about 45-60 mins, but your baby is born within the first 10.
Your rights
The woman always has the right to refuse a c-section if that is what they choose.
