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C-Section Delivery (Cesarean Delivery): Procedure, Risks & Recovery

If you are looking for the best treatment centre for C-section delivery, then visit Pristyn Care. At Pristyn Care, we work with some of the top female doctors who have ample experience in providing a seamless delivery experience. Book an appointment now.

If you are looking for the best treatment centre for C-section delivery, then ... Read More

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    Dr. Anoop Gupta (DksYBmcnwW)

    Dr. Anoop Gupta

    MBBS, MD-Obs & Gynecologist
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    43 Years Experience

    location icon Pristyn care Clinic - Delhi IVF & Fertility Research Centre
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    Dr. Nikita Trehan (px6aL5CFKE)

    Dr. Nikita Trehan

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    25 Years Experience

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    Dr. Monika Dubey (L11rBuqCul)

    Dr. Monika Dubey

    MBBS, MS - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
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    23 Years Experience

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    Dr. Sujatha (KrxYr66CFz)

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What is C-Section Delivery (Cesarean Delivery)?

A cesarean birth (also called a cesarean section or surgical birth) is used to deliver a baby under some circumstances. During this procedure, regional (or rarely general) anesthesia (spinal or epidural) is given to prevent pain. A vertical or horizontal (bikini line) incision is made in the skin of the lower abdomen, and then the underlying tissues are dissected to expose the uterus. An incision is made in the uterus to allow the removal of the placenta and baby. In some cases, other procedures, such as tubal ligation (permanent birth control), may also be performed during cesarean birth. 

Some cesarean births are planned and scheduled before the onset of labor because of maternal or fetal conditions. While others are unplanned and performed during labor because of maternal or fetal problems that arise at the time of delivery. 

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When is C-Section Delivery Needed?

A healthcare provider may recommend a C–section (Cesarean Delivery) if:

  • The baby is in distress: If the baby has changes in heart rate, movement or signs of oxygen deprivation before or during labor. A doctor usually recommends a C-section in such cases.
  • The unusual position of babies: C-section is the most efficient and safest way to deliver babies whose feet or buttocks enter the birth canal first or babies whose sides or shoulders come first (transverse).
  • Carrying more than one baby: If a woman is carrying twins, triplets, or more, then the C-section is the safest option. It is an efficient option if labor starts too early or the babies are not in the head-down position.
  • Problem with the placenta:  In some cases, a placenta covers the opening of the cervix, a C-section is recommended in such cases.
  • Prolapsed umbilical cord: A doctor recommends a C-section if a loop of the umbilical cord slips through the cervix in front of the baby.
  • Health concern: A C-section might be recommended for women with certain health issues, such as a heart or brain condition.
  • Blockage: A large fibroid blocking the birth canal, a pelvic fracture, or a baby who has a condition that can cause the head to be unusually large (severe hydrocephalus) might be reasons for a C-section.
  • History of C-section or other surgery on the uterus: Although it’s often possible to have a vaginal birth after a C-section, a healthcare provider might recommend a repeat C-section.

Things to Consider Before Having a Cesarean Section (C-Section)

Before cesarean section delivery, you must consider the following things:

  • Talk about medical history, including any health problems, as any pre-existing health condition can affect the cesarean section and anesthetics reaction.
  • Restrict solid foods for eight hours before C-section.
  • Don’t shave your stomach or pubic area.
  • Shower with anti-bacterial soap to reduce the risk of infection following a C-section. 
  • Talk to your doctor about any allergies you may have or any medication you are taking.

C-Section Delivery Step by Step Procedure

The first step in the C-section delivery procedure is preparing for the anesthesia. In a planned C-section, an epidural is used so that you are awake for the delivery.  However, in some cases, you’re asleep under general anesthesia. 

After that doctor cleaned the abdomen with an antiseptic, and you might have an oxygen mask placed over your mouth and nose to increase oxygen to your baby. After that doctor places a sterile drape around the incision site and over your legs and chest.

A doctor will then make an incision through your skin and into the wall of your abdomen. They might use either a vertical or transverse incision. A horizontal incision is also called a bikini incision. 

After that doctor cuts a 3-4 inch incision into the wall of your uterus, the incision can also be transverse or vertical. Finally, a doctor removes the baby through the incision and cuts the umbilical cord. After that placenta is removed, and the incisions are closed with stitches and staples. 

The typical C-section takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. After the delivery of the baby, the doctor stitches the uterus and closes the incision in the abdomen. 

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Benefits of C-Section Delivery (Cesarean Delivery)

The benefits of a C-section depend on the pregnancy. In most cases, the biggest advantage of a C-section is that it’s safer for both mother and baby. Healthcare providers usually suggest a C-section when a vaginal birth is risky or could hurt the baby. In some cases, C-sections are unplanned. For example, if a baby’s heart rate drops to an unsafe level, an emergency C-section is safer than letting your baby’s heart rate decline further. 

Some other benefits of C-section delivery are as follows:

  • Lower risk of incontinence and sexual dysfunction after the birth of the baby.
  • Lower risk of the baby being deprived of oxygen during delivery.
  • Lower risk of the baby experiencing trauma while passing through the birth canal.

Risks of Cesarean Delivery (C-Section Delivery)

Like any major surgical procedure, C-section delivery also carries certain risks and complications.

Common risks to babies include:

  • Breathing problems: In cases of scheduled C-sections, babies are more likely to develop a breathing issue. It causes them to breathe too fast for a few days after birth. 
  • Surgical injury: In some rare cases, accidental nicks to the baby’s skin can occur during surgery.

Risks to the mother include

  • Infection: After C-section surgery, there might be a risk of developing an infection of the lining of the uterus, in the urinary tract, or at the site of the incision. 
  • Blood loss: C-section might cause heavy bleeding during and after delivery.
  • Reaction to anesthesia: Reactions to any type of anesthesia are possible. In some cases, it may cause a sore throat and dry mouth from the breathing tube or nausea. 
  • Blood clots: A C-section may increase the risk of developing blood clot inside a deep vein, especially in the legs or pelvis. If a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow, the damage can be life-threatening.
  • Surgical injury: In some rare cases, surgical injuries to the bladder or bowel can occur during a C-section.
  • Increased risk during future pregnancies: A C-section delivery can increase the risk of complications in later pregnancy. The more C-sections, the higher the risk of placenta previa, a condition in which the placenta becomes attached to the wall of the uterus. A C-section can also increase the risk of uterus tearing along the scar line for women who attempt a vaginal delivery in later pregnancy. 

Questions to Ask Gynecologists for Cesarean Delivery

If you are going to have an elective C-section, then it is important to ask the following questions to your healthcare provider to have a better understanding of the procedure and the risks and complications associated with Cesarean Delivery:

  • How long will the surgery take?
  • What kind of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  • What are the risks and complications associated with anesthesia?
  • What should I avoid before the C-section?
  • What are the risks to a mother and child after C-section surgery?
  • How can I prepare myself for C-section?
  • What can I eat after a C-section?
  • What is a more painful C-section or natural birth?
  • What is the C-section recovery time?
  • Are there any restrictions after C-section delivery?‍
  • Are post-partum checkups important after a C-section?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of C-sections?
  • How many stitches are there in a C-section?
  • How long will C-section pain last?
  • How long do I bleed after a C-section?
  • How many hours after a C-section can I walk?

Diet Tips After C-section (Cesarean Delivery) for Speedy Recovery

Diet plays an important role for every mother after delivery. It not only helps in a speedy recovery, but at the same time, it also provides the infant with the right nutrients while breastfeeding. The diet should be a mix of foods that are loaded with essential nutrients in the right quantity. Below is the list of food items that you should eat after a C-section

  • Proteins 

Proteins are the building blocks of life. Consuming a lot of protein-rich diets helps in the healing of the tissues after the C-section. For breastfeeding mothers, protein intake should be kept high as it is very important for the growth of the baby. Eggs, chicken, fish, meats, milk, cheese, dried beans, peas, and nuts are some good sources of protein. 

  • Iron 

The female loses a lot of blood during birth. After giving birth, the majority of females have low iron levels, iron deficiency, or anemia. To keep the body functioning and stay healthy and active throughout the day, it is imperative to maintain normal iron levels in the body. The symptoms of an iron deficiency include weakness, dizziness, fainting, and blurred vision. Therefore, after cesarean delivery, the body needs to restock its iron stores.  However, be careful not to consume too much iron as this can cause constipation. Walnuts, dried fruits, figs, beef liver, red meat, oysters, and dried beans are some food sources of iron.

  • Calcium 

This nutrient aids in muscular relaxation, improving the health of the teeth and bones, controlling blood clotting, and preventing osteoporosis. The ideal calcium intake is advised for a safe and healthy recovery following childbirth. Make careful to include calcium-rich items in your diet if you are breastfeeding. Milk, cheese, yogurt, spinach, kale, and tofu are sources of calcium that can be used to supplement diets.

  • Vitamins 

Vitamins increase the body’s capacity to produce collagen, which promotes the development of new skin, tendons, and scar tissues.  Vitamins are beneficial for fastening the healing of the wound site. The scar can also be healed and made less noticeable in the months that follow with a healthy vitamin diet. Melons, oranges, tomatoes, papayas, strawberries, grapefruits, sweet potatoes, and broccoli are some rich sources of vitamins.

  • Fiber 

It’s crucial to maintain a high fiber intake when following a nutrition-focused diet in order to avoid constipation. Pressure on the wounds may increase if you are constipated. Bananas, oranges, apples, mangoes, strawberries, raspberries, beans, legumes, nuts, and dry fruits are examples of foods that are rich in fiber.

  • Fluids and Water 

For a quick recovery, it’s also crucial to keep your body hydrated with water and other beneficial fluids. Drinking enough of liquids can aid in milk production and ease bowel movements. Sources of fluids include herbal teas, soups, non-citrus fruit juices, coconut water, buttermilk, and green tea.

Tips to Reduce Belly Fat After C-section

Here are some tips to reduce belly fat after a C-section:

  • Breastfeed: Breastfeeding helps in shedding pounds immediately after having a baby. It is one of the simplest methods of losing belly fat after a C-section. During breastfeeding, oxytocin is released, which aids contraction that shrinks the uterus. It helps to get your uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size, making breastfeeding one of the convenient ways to lose weight after a C-section.
  • Postnatal massage: Massages help to break up belly fat and release fluids from the lymph nodes, which greatly helps in weight loss post-C-section. Lymphatic drainage helps in reducing swelling by removing fluids and waste products. Body massages after a C-section boost blood flow and oxygen in the body, help in recovery and improve immunity.
  • Bind your tummy: As compared to vaginal delivery, a C-section helps call for shedding many layers of tissue and muscle. In such cases, belly binding is a useful tool during recovery to help get rid of hanging belly fat after a C-section. 
  • Take up yoga: Practising yoga after C-section delivery significantly reduces tummy fat. Some other benefits of yoga include toning and strengthening the stomach muscles. It also helps in managing stress and emotional changes after a C-section.
  • Get adequate sleep: After C-section delivery, ensure to take at least 6 hours of sleep it helps immensely in weight loss. A proper sleep schedule helps in improving emotional health.

Best Healthcare Center For C-Section Delivery

Pregnancy is the most vital, beautiful, and sensitive phase in the life of a woman. Therefore, it’s extremely important to ensure the smooth delivery of the baby. In some cases, due to some complications, women may require a C-section. If you are looking for a trusted and reliable healthcare center for a smooth delivery experience, then visit Pristyn Care.

At Prsityn Care, we work with some of the best doctors who have ample experience in providing a smoother delivery experience. Moreover, we provide medical assistance throughout the procedure, from diet tips to exercise. We are associated with certified gyne clinics and hospitals in almost all the major cities of India. We also provide multiple payment options along with no-cost EMI service. Book an appointment with us for a smoother and safer delivery experience.

FAQs around Cesarean Delivery

Is C-section (Cesarean Delivery) painful?

Women usually feel no pain during C-sections as it is performed under general anesthesia. Most women are awake and simply numbed from the waist down using regional anesthesia during C-sections. You may experience sensations like pulling and pressure during the procedure.

What things do I need to avoid after a C-section?

Listed below are some things that you need to avoid for quicker recovery:

  • Avoid sexual intercourse 
  • Avoid douching
  • Avoid using tampons
  • Avoid lifting anything heavier than your body
  • Avoid carbonated drinks, citrus juices, coffee, tea, and spicy food

Can I use an Indian toilet after a C-section?

A doctor usually suggests using a Western toilet for at least a week after a C-section. But if you are comfortable using an Indian toilet, then you can use it.

How to sleep after a C-section?

A doctor usually suggests sleeping on your back or side to avoid too much strain on the C-section wound. You can also try sleeping on your back with your head elevated. You can use a pillow to keep your spine aligned and take pressure off your joints. 

What general care for C-section incision is required?

C-section is a safe procedure, but it’s still major surgery, so it’s important to care for the incision to prevent injury and infection properly:

  • Clean the incision daily
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes
  • Avoid exercise
  • Attend all doctor’s appointments
  • Apply heat to your abdomen
  • Take pain relievers

What are the possible concerns after a C-section?

The possible concerns after a C-section include:

  • Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
  • Drainage or pus coming from your incision
  • Increased pain, redness, or swelling
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Medically Reviewed By
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Dr. Anoop Gupta
30 Years Experience Overall
Last Updated : December 21, 2024

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