What Happens During a C-Section?

We start birthing classes next week, and we're writing up our birth plan. But, it doesn't hurt to be prepared if a C-section is necessary.

From Planning Family.com
Familiarizing yourself with the procedure for a C-Section is a good idea, even if you are planning on a vaginal delivery. Caesarian Sections are commonly performed in situations where labor is not progressing, if there is a prolapse of the umbilical cord that would inhibit blood flow to your baby, or if your baby's heart slows down too much during contractions. Below you will find a description of a typical C-Section.

Like all medical procedures, the C-Section will begin with a consent form, explaining the procedure and risks. Your signature acknowledges that you are cosenting to the surgery. Blood tests and an IV for hydration and medication follow.

Anesthesia - In the operating room, you will be given a regional anesthetic, either spinal or epidural, which will allow you to feel no pain but still be awake during the surgery. In a few emergency situations however, a general anesthetic may be given. General anesthetic carries greater risk than regional and is given in cases when operating team decides that its benefits outweigh its risks.

Preparations - Your right hip will be elevated with a hip roll to tilt your entire body slightly to the left. This keeps your uterus from resting on your vena cavity and restricting blood flow to your baby. Drapes are placed around your belly and the anesthesiologist will check to make sure you are completely numb.

Delivery - Once you are numb, a local antiseptic will be applied to your belly where the incision will be made. Your physician will make a small cut (about 8-10 inches) above your pubic bone. This cut is usually horizontal, but it can also be vertical, depending on the position of your baby. Even though several layers of tissue are being cut, the sensation will feel more like tugging than cutting.

After the amniotic fluid is suctioned, your baby will be lifted out. So in just about 5 minutes after the first incision you and your partner will hear your baby cry for the first time! Your baby will have their nose and mouth suctioned. They may need some oxygen or to have their back rubbed to expel excess fluid, because unlike a vaginal delivery, the fluid has not already been naturally squeezed from their lungs.

After Delivery - The placenta is removed and you should be given a dose of Pitocen to contract your uterus and reduce bleeding. Your uterus may also be irrigated with water and you will probably be given a dose of antibiotic as well. This reduces any chance of infection. And finally, all layers of the incision are closed with sutures or staples.

The entire procedure will probably be finished in just about 45 minutes.

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