Short answer
A normal (vaginal) delivery is usually the safest choice for healthy mothers and babies. A caesarean (C-section) is advised when it is safer, for example if the baby is breech, the placenta is low, labour stops progressing or the baby shows signs of distress. Many women who had one caesarean can try for a normal delivery next time.
- Published
- Published by
- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
Common reasons for a caesarean
- The baby is in the breech (bottom or feet first) position
- The placenta is low and covers the cervix (placenta praevia)
- Pre-eclampsia or other serious illness in the mother
- The baby is not getting enough oxygen and nutrients
- Labour is not progressing, or there is heavy bleeding
- Certain infections in the mother
Planned and emergency caesareans
A planned caesarean is usually done from 39 weeks of pregnancy. An emergency caesarean is done when a problem arises during pregnancy or labour.
Most caesareans are done under spinal or epidural anaesthesia, so you are awake but feel no pain. The operation usually takes 40 to 50 minutes.
Recovery after a caesarean
Recovery takes longer than after a normal delivery. Your doctor will tell you when you are ready to go home, and most women need to take things easy for about 6 weeks. Contact your doctor straight away if you have:
- Severe pain, or heavy bleeding from the vagina
- A wound that becomes red, painful or swollen, or leaks pus or foul-smelling fluid
- A cough or shortness of breath
- Pain or swelling in the lower leg
- Pain when passing urine, or leaking urine
Normal delivery after a caesarean (VBAC)
One caesarean does not mean every later baby must be delivered the same way. Many women can safely try for a vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC), with closer monitoring during labour.
Whether VBAC suits you depends on the type of cut made in the womb last time, the reason for that caesarean, how many caesareans you have had and your health in this pregnancy. A low, side-to-side cut on the womb carries the lowest risk. Discuss VBAC with your obstetrician early, and bring the operation notes from your previous delivery.
At Dhruva Hospitals
Our obstetric team offers normal delivery, including painless labour options, and planned and emergency caesareans in modular operation theatres, available 24/7. Our Level III NICU is on site if a newborn needs special care.
Common questions
Is a caesarean safer for the baby?
Not routinely. A caesarean is major surgery, with risks such as infection, bleeding and blood clots for the mother and temporary breathing difficulty for the baby. It is recommended when it is safer than a vaginal birth.
Can I ask for a caesarean without a medical reason?
Discuss it with your doctor. They will explain the benefits and risks for you and your baby compared with a normal delivery, and offer support if you are anxious about giving birth.
Read next
Sources
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.