Caesarean birth (also known as a C-section) is the delivery of a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.
There are various reasons a Caesarean birth is performed. They include:
What are the complications with a Caesarean birth?
Complications may occur in a small number of women and are usually easily treated:
What is a gentle C-section?
During a gentle C-section, the baby is delivered slowly to allow time for its chest to be squeezed on the way out, to clear the lungs of fluid as in a vaginal birth.
Your baby is kept at a level lower than your uterus to enable cord blood flow towards the baby. Your hands are free, your IV-line is in one hand, leaving your other hand free to hold and comfort your baby after birth. Skin-to-skin contact is introduced as soon as your baby is covered with a warm towel. Your baby will be allowed to stay with you as long as possible.
What is the difference between an emergency C-section and an elective C-section?
An elective operation is planned due to one or a number of the reasons above. Some women request a C-section even if a vaginal delivery is a safe option.
Even if you schedule a C-section, that doesn’t mean your baby will wait until that date to be born!
It is important to note that emergency C-sections done during labour have higher chances of complications than scheduled C-sections done before the onset of labour. Through comprehensive antenatal care, Dr Schneider will aim to become aware of any risks that could be avoided by a planned operation, rather than exposing yourself and your baby to an emergency procedure.
