An abdominal birth, or cesarean delivery, is performed when the life of the baby, mother, or both is at risk. There are various reasons for using this method, and it involves making an incision in the mother’s lower abdominal wall. Risks include blood clots, excessive bleeding, and infection, and recovery involves staying in the hospital for a few days and following postoperative instructions.
Delivering a baby through an incision in the mother’s abdomen is called an abdominal birth, commonly known as a cesarean delivery. Generally performed when the life of the baby, the mother, or both is in danger, an abdominal birth involves a surgical incision in the abdominal wall to facilitate the birthing process. As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with an abdominal birth. Pregnant women who may be scheduled for a cesarean delivery, or for whom the procedure may be an option, are often encouraged to educate themselves about the potential risks and recovery process associated with this type of delivery.
There are a number of reasons for using a cesarean delivery. In all cases, proceeding with vaginal birth puts the life of the mother, the baby, or both at risk. If the baby is positioned incorrectly in the birth canal or is larger than average in size, an abdominal birth may be needed to ensure a safe delivery. If there is a suspicion of oxygen deprivation of the fetus or if the umbilical cord is placed in such a way that a safe delivery is compromised, a cesarean delivery may be performed. Placental problems, such as placenta previa or developmental problems, including spina bifida, may also require a cesarean delivery.
If the mother’s health is compromised due to a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or if she has an active infection resulting from a sexually transmitted disease (STD), the baby may be delivered through the abdomen to reduce the risk of complications. Pregnant women with more than one baby can have a cesarean delivery to ease the delivery process. Also, if a woman has had a previous abdominal birth, she may be encouraged to have a cesarean delivery because of the possible risks associated with a vaginal birth. The risks associated with a vaginal delivery after cesarean (VBAC) depend entirely on an individual’s situation and medical history.
The abdominal delivery procedure involves making a surgical incision in the mother’s lower abdominal wall just above the pubic region. The mother is usually given a spinal block, or epidural, and she remains awake and alert during the delivery. An incision is made to open the uterus and allow the baby to be removed. Once the baby is delivered and the placenta is removed, stitches are used to close the abdominal incision. In most cases, a single horizontal incision is used to facilitate a cesarean delivery; however, in some cases, more than one engraving may be required to complete the delivery safely.
An abdominal birth carries some risk of complications. The mother may be at increased risk for blood clots, excessive bleeding, and infection. The use of anesthesia carries a certain risk of allergic reaction to the administered drugs and impaired breathing. Women who undergo an abdominal birth may be at an increased risk of future pregnancy complications, including abnormal development of the placenta and rupture of the uterus. The risks to an abdominally delivered baby are minimal and can include facial lacerations or difficulty breathing.
Women who have a cesarean section generally stay hospitalized for a few days after giving birth. Often encouraged to get up and move around shortly after giving birth, the new mother may be observed for any signs of infection or possible complications during the course of her hospital stay. Pain relievers can be given to ease any discomfort after delivery. To promote a quick and uncomplicated recovery, new mothers are encouraged to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and adhere to their doctor’s postoperative instructions.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
