Caesarean Birth

Birth is an unforgettable experience for expectant mothers, both physically and emotionally. Today, births are usually vaginal (normal) or cesarean. Cesarean birth means the surgical removal of the baby from the womb and can be preferred for various medical reasons. Cesarean birth, which aims to protect the health of the mother and the baby, can be life-saving in cases of medical necessity.

What is Cesarean Birth?

Cesarean birth is a birth method in which the baby is removed from the uterus through a surgical incision, not vaginally. This procedure is performed in a sterile environment under operating room conditions. Although it is usually performed in a planned manner, in some emergencies, a transition from normal birth to cesarean may be made.

Why is Cesarean Birth Performed?

Cesarean birth may be necessary in the following cases:

• The baby is in a breech position in the uterus (breech presentation)
• The placenta is blocking the cervix (placenta previa)
• The baby is large (usually over 4 kg)
• The mother has diseases such as heart, blood pressure, diabetes
• The mother has had a previous cesarean section
• Risk of uterine rupture
• The birth canal is narrow or the mother's bone structure is not suitable
• The baby is experiencing oxygen deficiency
• The baby's heartbeat is irregular during birth
• Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
• The mother has an active genital infection (for example, HPV, herpes, etc.)

How Does Cesarean Birth Process Occur?

Cesarean birth is performed in the following steps:

1. Anesthesia Application

Epidural or spinal anesthesia is usually applied in cesarean birth. Thanks to these types of anesthesia, the mother experiences birth with awareness, but does not feel pain.

2. Surgical Procedure

The abdominal area is cleaned with antiseptic solution and a sterile environment is provided. An approximately 10 cm incision is made at the bikini line. After reaching the uterus, the baby is delivered. The umbilical cord is cut and the placenta is removed. The incision is closed with surgical stitches. The entire operation takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

 

Is There Pain During Cesarean Birth?

 

Is There Pain During Cesarean Birth?

Thanks to epidural or spinal anesthesia, the mother does not feel any pain during the surgery. Only a slight feeling of pressure may occur due to anesthesia. If general anesthesia is applied, the birth takes place while the mother is unconscious.

Things to Consider After Cesarean Birth

The recovery process after a cesarean section may take longer than after a vaginal birth. Therefore, it is important for expectant mothers to pay attention to the following:

• It is necessary to rest for 1-2 nights in the hospital.
• It is recommended to get up slowly within the first 6 hours.
• Attention should be paid to the hygiene of the stitch area.
• Heavy lifting and sudden movements should be avoided.
• Doctor's recommendations should be followed for the care of stitch scars.

Regular walking speeds up the healing process.

Advantages of Cesarean Birth

• It offers a painless birth process.
• It helps prevent medical risks for the mother and baby.
• It is safe for babies who have difficulty passing through the birth canal.
• It is a birth process that can be planned in advance.

Disadvantages of Cesarean Birth

The recovery period is longer than normal birth. The risk of infection is slightly higher. Cesarean section may be needed in subsequent pregnancies.

Recovery Process After Cesarean Section

The full recovery process can take 4 to 6 weeks. During this process, you should move slowly. Plenty of fluids should be consumed. Exercises recommended by the doctor should be done. Attention should be paid to the diet.