Caesarean Sections: How & Why They Are Done

anesthesiologist. Then a nurse will insert a catheter to empty the bladder. To cleanse the area for surgery, the abdomen is washed thoroughly with antiseptic and iodine, and the pubic area is shaved. If an IV was not already inserted during labor, one will be started to administer the necessary fluids that will be needed during surgery.

In the operating room, there will be several nurses, the doctor and anesthesiologist. In most cases, the partner is allowed in the operating room as well. Oxygen tubes will be inserted in the nose during the actual procedure. Once the incision has been made, most mothers experience a tugging sensation as the baby is being removed. It is common to experience a heaviness around the chest or abdominal area. After the baby has been removed, he is quickly cleaned, checked, weighed and wrapped in blankets. The closing of the incision usually takes anywhere from fifteen to thirty minutes long.

After the surgery, the mother is taken to a recovery room for about thirty minutes for observation. After the catheter is removed, usually after twenty-four hours, the mother is encouraged to try and walk, sponge bathe and groom. If there are no complications, mother and baby are usually released from the hospital within three or four days.

The most difficult part of the cesarean section is the recovery. Getting in and out of bed, climbing stairs, or using the bathroom will be challenging and painful. It is recommended that mothers who have just had a C-section avoid lifting heavy objects or driving.

It is apparent that cesarean sections are becoming a common way of bringing babies into the world. While a natural labor is preferred, it is important to understand the chances of having to forego a natural delivery because of complications. It is also key to that mothers discuss all options and possible complications during her labor and delivery with her care giver.

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