Cesaean Birth The natural way for babies to be born is through the mother's vagina. Sometimes, however, it isn't possible. In such cases, cesarean birth may be performed. Reasons for a Cesarean Birth There are many reasons why a cesarean birth may be the best way to deliver your baby. A Large Baby Sometimes a baby is too big to pass safely through the mother's vagina and the surrounding bones (pelvis). This is known as cephalopelvic disproportion. Multiple Pregnancy Women having two or more babies may need cesarean birth. Failure of Labor to Progress About one-third of cesarean births are done because labor stops. Concern for the Baby The baby could be having trouble during labor and may need to be delivered by cesarean birth. One reason may be that the umbilical cord is pinched or compressed or not enough blood is flowing to the baby from the placenta. Problems With the Placenta Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta is below the baby and covers part or all of the cervix. This will block the baby's exit from the uterus. Medical Conditions Women with certain medical conditions are more likely to have a cesarean birth. For example, if a woman has diabetes or high blood pressure. Previous Cesarean Birth Sometimes, having had a cesarean birth before can play a part in whether you will need to have one again. Many women, however, who have had a cesarean birth before can try to deliver vaginally. The Procedure In most hospitals, your birth partner may stay with you in the operating room for the cesarean birth. Preparation Before you have a cesarean delivery, the nurse prepares you for the operation. Anesthesia Anesthesia will be given so that you do not feel any pain during surgery. You will be given either general anesthesia, an epidural block or a spinal block. If general anesthesia is used, you will not be awake during the delivery. Delivery The doctor will make an incision through your skin and the wall of the abdomen. Another will be made in the wall of the uterus. The baby will be delivered through the incisions, the umbilical cord will be cut, and then the placenta will be removed. The uterus will be closed with stitches that will dissolve in the body. Complications Like any major surgery, cesarean birth involves risks. These problems occur in a small number of women and usually are easily treated: · The uterus, nearby pelvic organs or skin incision can get infected. · You can lose blood. · You can get blood clots in the legs, pelvic organs or lungs. · Your bowel or bladder can be injured. After Delivery If you are awake for the surgery, you can probably hold your baby right away. You will be taken to a recovery room or directly to your room. You may need to stay in bed for awhile. A hospital stay after cesarean birth is usually four days. The length of your stay depends on the reason for the cesarean birth. After You Go Home It will take a few weeks for your abdomen to heal. It's important to help yourself heal. For a few weeks after the cesarean birth, you should not place anything in your vagina or do any strenuous activity. Finally ... There are many reasons why a cesarean birth may be needed to deliver your baby. If you have questions or concerns about cesarean birth, ask your doctor or nurse-midwife. This excerpt from ACOG's Patient Education Pamphlet is provided for your information. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for visiting your doctor. If you need medical care, have any questions, please contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.