Are you booked in for a C-Section?
Something that can be safely assumed is that all pregnant women consider childbirth at some point during their pregnancy! And the majority probably expect to give birth vaginally. However, this is not always possible for one reason or another, and as a result c-sections (cesarians) are becoming increasingly common.
In most cases a mother-to-be will have a medical reason for requiring a c-section. And in many cases the operation itself is actually life-saving for the mother, her baby or both.
Some mothers, on the other hand, fear childbirth to such a degree that they will elect to have a c-section; others simply don't want to go through a natural birth and are thus labelled "too posh to push" by the press!
So what is a C-Section?
A cesarian section, or c-section, is when a surgeon makes an incision through the abdomen and into the uterus. The surgeon then reaches in and lifts the baby out.
In most cases a c-section happens as an emergency, when complications arise during the labour, and a vaginal birth is considered risky to the mother or her baby. However, if there are known risks detected prior to the birth, then a cesarian will be planned or scheduled in advance.
A cesarian section is a major operation and takes at least six weeks to recover from. It also necessitates a longer hospital stay than a mother who has had a vaginal birth.
In some cases women can feel they have been pushed into having elective c-sections and you must think long and hard about your decision before going ahead with it. Are you sure you want a c-section? Why do you want a cesarian birth, rather than a vaginal birth? Do you feel pressured into having a c-section? You should have a chat to your doctor about your feelings as in many instances your mind can be put at ease simply by talking it through with someone who is qualified to know the reasons and risks behind a c-section.
If possible, also try to chat to mothers who've experienced a c-section, whether by choice or because of an emergency arising during the birth. If you don't personally know anyone who has had a c-section, you may like to consider joining an online pregnancy community to meet women who've had c-sections and to ask questions.
Related Articles
Medical Reasons for Planned C-Section
Medical Reasons for Emergency C-Section
What Happens During a C-Section
Breastfeeding after a C-Section
Risks Associated with C-Sections
