A caesarean section is an operation to deliver your baby through a cut made in your tummy and womb. The cut is usually just below where your pubic hair starts to grow.
A caesarean section may be recommended as a planned procedure, or you may have chosen to have a caesarean for non-medical reasons. Though it is a medical procedure, many hospitals have worked hard to make the experience as calm and positive as possible.
During your antenatal appointment the doctor will discuss the indication for caesarean section. The doctor will also review your notes and discuss the complications and implications on future pregnancies.
During the surgery one of your birth partners will be able to come with you into theatre. We routinely offer all parents skin to skin contact following the birth of your baby. Skin to skin is beneficial for all babies regardless of how you choose to feed your baby, this will help to regulate baby’s temperature and heart rate. It is also a nice calm environment for your baby and can help with bonding and attachment. Your birth partner will be asked if they wish to trim the cord following birth of the baby.
There are many reasons why you might need or choose to have a caesarean. We would usually consider discussing elective caesarean section for two or more previous sections, breech presentation where ECV (a procedure to attempt to turn a baby in an unfavourable position) declined/unsuccessful, twin pregnancy with twin one not being in a position that is unfavourable for birth, placenta previa (placenta covering the exit from your vagina) or maternal request. Whatever the reason, it is important to us that women know all of the associated risks of the procedure as well as what to expect from the recovery.
For women who have had one previous caesarean section, the doctor will provide you with information in order to make an informed decision regarding mode of birth with the option of vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC) or elective caesarean section.
Most caesarean sections are carried out under a spinal or epidural anaesthetic. This means you will be awake but the lower part of your body is numbed so you will not feel any pain. You may feel some sensation during the procedure which is normal. The midwife caring for you will insert a catheter (a thin tube placed in your urethra to empty your bladder) prior to the surgery this will remain in situ until you are up and mobilising on the postnatal ward.
In some circumstances, it may be necessary for you to have a general anaesthetic during a caesarean, if this is the case it will be explained to you before you are given the general anaesthetic and go to sleep.
The theatre team will explain to you and your birth partner what they are doing during the procedure, you will not be able to see the surgery as a screen will cover your lower body. If you wish for the screen to be lowered at the time of delivery of the baby, please inform the midwife and team caring for you on the day.
The length of the cut will vary but it is usually 10-20cm long. The entire procedure usually takes just under an hour, depending on how you and your baby are doing. Once you baby is born, the surgeon will repair the incision made to deliver your baby. Following delivery, you will be cared for by the Enhanced Recovery team on Ward 27. Post-operatively on the ward the midwife will check your blood pressure and observations frequently, the midwife will observe your blood loss and offer you pain relief at regular intervals. The length of time of time you need to stay in hospital after a caesarean section will vary depending on your personal circumstances. Usually, women stay in hospital for 1 – 3 days post caesarean section but this is considered on an individual basis.
A caesarean section is generally a very safe procedure, but like an type of surgery it carries a certain amount of risk. It is important to be aware of the possible complications, particularly if you are considering having a caesarean section for non-medical reasons. The risks and benefits of caesarean section will be discussed with you by the midwife and doctor providing care for you during the pregnancy.
It is important to think about what is best for both you and your baby and it is important to know that you can change your mind too. If you go into labour before your planned caesarean, you will be able to discuss your options with your midwife and the medical team. You might decide against caesarean birth initially but revisit this choice in later pregnancy. Your choice is personal to you and your circumstances. We will support you in your decision making.