If you've just found out you're pregnant, you're probably already thinking about the big day when your baby will be born. You may be concerned about the possibility of having a C-section. While C-sections are fairly common, they are reserved for times when a normal delivery may cause harm to you or your baby. Here are some possible complications of pregnancy that might cause your obstetrician to recommend a C-section delivery.
Problems With The Placenta
With a natural delivery, the baby comes out first and the placenta follows behind. If the placenta moves into the wrong position towards the end of your pregnancy, it might be safer to do a C-section. The placenta may totally cover your cervix so that it blocks the birth canal. If this condition is discovered in the final weeks or days of your surgery, you may be able to schedule the C-section rather than having it on an emergency basis.
If the placenta tears away from your uterus, it is a more serious condition. This leads to bleeding and cramping which might diminish the oxygen supply to your baby. In this case, you may need an emergency C-section to protect the baby. Another condition that requires immediate attention is when the umbilical cord that attaches to the placenta moves out of place and slides down the vagina. Since the umbilical cord and placenta supply nourishment and oxygen to your baby, any time there is a complication with them, a C-section could be necessary.
Problems With The Baby
When it's near the time to deliver your baby naturally, your baby positions its head near the birth canal so the head can be delivered first. Sometimes, the baby is turned around so the hips are in position to come out first. If the baby can't be repositioned, a C-section is considered so the baby won't be stressed while being born. Prior to the delivery, your baby's condition is monitored, especially if you are in labor for a long time. If it's determined your baby is under stress from lack of oxygen or another reason, a C-section may be done so the baby can be removed quickly to be examined and treated. While it's not necessarily a problem with the baby, if the baby happens to be too large or if you have pelvic bones that are too small, a C-section will be done for the welfare of both you and the baby. Also, if testing during your pregnancy turns up birth defects, your obstetrician may decide to schedule a C-section when it is close to your delivery date so your baby can have assistance being born.
In addition, your doctor will consider your health and other medical conditions when deciding if a scheduled or emergency C-section would be best for you. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or some other health condition, a prolonged labor and delivery could potentially cause complications. In that case, a C-section could make the birth much smoother for both you and the baby.
Share9 January 2017
My husband and I are ready to have our first child. Because I’m an older, potential mom, I’m working closely with my OBGYN. While I know the road to motherhood might be difficult and time consuming for me, I’m prepared for the challenge. I’ve already discussed several medications and procedures that help with infertility issues with my caring OBGYN. My husband and I are discussing our comfort levels with each type of infertility treatment alternative. We are confident we will make the right decisions for our future family. On this blog, I hope you will discover some of the best treatment options for infertility available today. Enjoy the journey to motherhood!
