Cesarean Section
Cesarean Section
Cesarean Section
College of Medicine
Research title
Cesarean section
Done by
روان ميثم جواد
Under supervision of
Table of Contents
Summary....................................................................................................................................................... 3
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................... 4
Reasons for a planned caesarean section .................................................................................................. 5
Reasons for an unplanned caesarean section ........................................................................................... 5
Risks and complications of a caesarean section ............................................................................ 6
When is a cesarean delivery needed .......................................................................................................... 7
How is a cesarean delivery done ................................................................................................................ 8
After a cesarean section surgery ................................................................................................................ 9
References .................................................................................................................................................. 11
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Summary
Cesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure that involves delivering a baby
through an incision made in the mother's abdomen and uterus. Over the years, C-
sections have become increasingly common and are now the most prevalent
surgery in the United States, with more than one million women undergoing the
procedure annually. The decision to perform a C-section can be planned or
unplanned, depending on various factors such as the mother's health and the baby's
position and condition.
Planned C-sections are scheduled in cases where a previous C-section has
occurred, the baby is in a breech position, there is placenta previa or other
complications. Unplanned C-sections may be necessary if labor is not progressing,
the baby is showing signs of distress, or the mother's health is at risk. However, C-
sections come with potential risks and complications, including infection, blood
loss, blood clots, adhesions, longer recovery time, future pregnancy complications,
anesthesia complications, and delayed bonding between mother and baby.
During a C-section, the mother is given anesthesia to numb the lower half of her
body or to put her to sleep. The surgeon then makes an incision in the mother's
abdomen and uterus, delivers the baby, removes the placenta, closes the incision,
and closely monitors the mother for any postoperative complications. While C-
sections can be life-saving in certain situations, efforts are being made to reduce
their rate. However, experts predict that a significant drop in the C-section rate
may not occur for at least a decade or two.
It is important for women to understand the reasons for planned and unplanned C-
sections, as well as the potential risks and complications associated with the
procedure. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in guiding women through the
decision-making process and providing appropriate care before, during, and after a
C-section.
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INTRODUCTION
Cesarean section is a fetal delivery through an open
abdominal incision (laparotomy) and an incision in the
uterus (hysterotomy). The first cesarean documented
occurred in 1020 AD, and since then, the procedure has
evolved tremendously. It is now the most common
surgery performed in the United States, with over 1
million women delivered by cesarean every year. The
cesarean delivery rate rose from 5% in 1970 to 31.9%
in 2016. Though there are continuing efforts to reduce
the rate of cesarean sections, experts do not anticipate a
significant drop for at least a decade or two. While it
confers risks of both immediate and long-term
complications, for some women, cesarean delivery can
be the safest or even the only way to deliver a healthy
newborn.
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2. Blood loss: C-sections typically result in more blood loss than vaginal
deliveries. Excessive blood loss can lead to anemia, blood transfusions, or
other complications.
3. Blood clots: C-sections increase the risk of blood clots, which can be life-
threatening if they travel to the lungs or brain. Women who have a C-section
are often given blood thinners to reduce the risk of blood clots.
4. Adhesions: C-sections can cause scar tissue to form in the abdomen, which
can lead to adhesions. Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can cause
organs to stick together, leading to pain, bowel obstruction, or infertility.
5. Placental abruption: If the placenta separates from the uterus before delivery,
a C-section may be necessary to deliver the baby quickly and prevent
complications.
6. Multiple pregnancies: If a woman is carrying twins or other multiples, a C-
section may be necessary if the babies are not in the head-down position or
if there are other complications.
7. Maternal health conditions: If a woman has certain health conditions, such
as high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes, a C-section may be
necessary to reduce the risk of complications during delivery.
8. Previous C-section: If a woman has had a previous C-section, she may need
to have another C-section for subsequent deliveries, depending on the reason
for the previous C-section and other factors.
2. Incision: Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes an incision in
the mother's abdomen and uterus. The incision can be either vertical or
horizontal, depending on the reason for the C-section and other factors.
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3. Delivery of the baby: After the incision is made, the surgeon gently lifts the
baby out of the uterus and delivers it through the incision.
4. Placenta delivery: After the baby is delivered, the surgeon removes the
placenta from the uterus and checks for any remaining tissue.
5. Closing the incision: The surgeon then closes the incision in the uterus with
sutures or staples and closes the incision in the abdomen with stitches or
staples. A sterile dressing is then applied to the incision site.
After a cesarean section (C-section) surgery, the mother enters a phase of recovery
and postoperative care:
1. Monitoring: The mother is closely monitored in a recovery room for a few
hours after the surgery. Vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, are
regularly checked to ensure stability.
2. Pain management: Pain medications are provided to alleviate discomfort and
manage pain. The type and dosage of pain relief may vary depending on the
individual's needs and the healthcare provider's recommendations.
3. Incision care: The incision site is kept clean and dry. A sterile dressing may
be applied to protect the wound and promote healing. It's essential to follow
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the healthcare provider's instructions for caring for the incision, such as how
to clean it and when to change the dressing.
4. Physical mobility: Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent
complications and aid in recovery. Walking and gentle movements, as
guided by the healthcare provider, help promote blood circulation and
prevent blood clots.
5. Breastfeeding: If the mother intends to breastfeed, she can start doing so as
soon as she is comfortable. Different positions may be needed to
accommodate the incision site and ensure comfort during nursing.
6. Postpartum care: The mother will receive postpartum care, which may
include assistance with breastfeeding, guidance on postpartum exercises, and
emotional support. Regular check-ups with the healthcare provider are
scheduled to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
7. Recovery timeline: The recovery time varies for each individual, but most
women can expect to stay in the hospital for 2-4 days after a C-section.
Complete recovery may take several weeks or longer, during which the
mother should gradually resume normal activities as recommended by her
healthcare provider.
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References
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Indications contributing to the increasing cesarean delivery rate. Obstet
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Boyle A, Reddy UM, Landy HJ, Huang CC, Driggers RW, Laughon SK. Primary
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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (College). Society for
Maternal-Fetal Medicine. Caughey AB, Cahill AG, Guise JM, Rouse DJ. Safe
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