Alright ladies, let’s talk about C-Sections! I get a lot of questions about vaginal birth vs. C-Sections, so I figured I would do a deep dive to share some important information and hopefully answer your most common questions.
How do C sections work?
A doctor makes surgical incisions in the abdomen and the uterus to deliver the baby. Through this your abdominal muscles will be separated to allow access to your uterus. The doctor will make an incision (typically horizontal) in the wall of your uterus. Your baby is then delivered through these incisions. The umbilical cord is cut and the placenta is removed from the uterus and the incisions are sutured up.
Why would a mother need to get a C section?
There are many reasons why a mother would need a c-section or opt to have on instead. Here are just a few common reasons!
- If you have a medical condition that may make vaginal birth risky, this can be different from person to person—so definitely have this conversation with your doctor. Diabetes and high blood pressure/preeclampsia do not always mean you HAVE to have a C-section, but it may be better in some patients!
- If there are problems with the placenta present, such as Placenta Previa, your doctor will recommend a c-section. This can cause dangerous bleeding for your baby and you if you were to give a vaginal birth.
- Depending on your babies position entering the birth canal (feet, buttocks or shoulder first), a C-section may end up being the safest option.
- If you’ve had a c-section previously or you’ve had other surgeries on your uterus the doctor may advise for a VBAC, which is a vaginal birth after a c-section. The more c-sections you have, the greater your risk for pregnancy complications. Definitely something to speak with your doctor about.
Is it riskier than a vaginal birth?
Recovery after vaginal birth is usually shorter and less painful than after a C-section. If you are able to have a vaginal birth, there are generally less risks including: less risk of a postpartum infection, lower risk of needing a blood transfusion, less risk of uterine scarring, or fertility/birth problems in the future.
If I get a C-Section, what is the recovery like?
Discomfort and fatigue are definitely common during the C-section recovery process. Taking time to rest and listening to your body during this time is very important. You will have to avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby in the first couple weeks while you are healing.
If you are feeling pain and discomfort, your doctor will advise you on what pain medications are safe while breastfeeding. Usually they will recommend ibuprofen or Tylenol.
Other things you may experience while you are recovering from the c-section and pregnancy include: vaginal discharge, contractions, tender breasts, hair loss and skin changes, and postpartum depression.
For more information on C-sections please check out these Youtube videos I created:
If you have any questions for things I didn’t cover, feel free to leave them in the comments. I hope this was helpful for you girls!
