In cesarean delivery, the baby is born by incision in the abdomen and uterus. Although many mothers want to have this type of delivery, be aware that cesarean delivery will be prescribed in cases where natural childbirth poses risks to the mother and fetus. In this article, we will look at how to perform a cesarean delivery, its preparation and convalescence period.
Preparing for a cesarean delivery
Before giving birth, the patient is given the necessary tips and measures to prevent complications and have a successful delivery. During pregnancy, tests such as blood tests and examinations to ensure the health of the mother and fetus are required.
Before surgery, the mother’s blood type will be determined, and a blood transfusion may be needed during labor. However, blood transfusions are rare in cesarean delivery.
Before deciding to have a cesarean delivery, ask your doctor all your questions and make a conscious decision. Because this delivery has a longer recovery period and more care, you need someone to take care of you after the birth.
cesarean delivery Process
To perform a cesarean section, an incision is made along the abdomen and uterus when the mother is under epidural or spinal anesthesia or even general anesthesia. This cut is about ten centimeters. After the baby is born, the umbilical cord will be cut and the placenta will be removed. In the end, the uterus and abdomen will be stitched.
Types of anesthesia
Spinal Anesthesia: The anesthetic is injected directly around the spinal cord and the lower parts of the body will be anesthetized, and the mother will be conscious during cesarean delivery.
Epidural Anesthesia: The anesthetic will be injected into the extremities and back of the body, outside the spinal cord, and the mother is conscious during cesarean delivery.
General anesthesia: The mother will not notice any action during delivery.
The reasons for cesarean delivery
In some cases, the mother decides to have a cesarean delivery from the beginning, which is called a cesarean delivery at the request of the mother or active cesarean, but sometimes a cesarean delivery will be prescribed by a doctor in the last months of pregnancy.
Some of the reasons for having a cesarean delivery are:
- Problems with fetal growth
- Large fetal head or difficulty passing through the birth canal (narrowing of the birth canal)
- When the baby will be born from foot (Bridge)
- Complications such as high maternal blood pressure or heart disease for mother
- mother infection with genital herpes infection and the possibility of its transmission to the fetus
- History of cesarean delivery in the past
- Decreased oxygen delivery to the fetus
- Decreased ammonia fluid
- Fetal heart rate disorder
Actions and care after cesarean delivery
After delivery, the mother will be hospitalized one day. Immediately after surgery, painkillers are injected intravenously.
The specialist doctor asks the mother to get up as much as she can and walk. This will prevent blood clots and constipation.
The method and position of breastfeeding will be taught to the mother so that no pressure or pain is applied to the stitches.
Actions to be taken at home after a cesarean delivery include:
- Rest, especially during the first few weeks after delivery
- Take care not to put pressure on the abdomen and use a girdle.
- Drink water and fluids
- Not having intercourse for four to six weeks
- Take painkillers if necessary
Visit your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain with fever
- Bad vaginal Smelly discharge or large blood clots
- Pain when urinating
- Symptoms of infection such as fever above thirty-eight degrees, redness, swelling or discharge from the stitches
Cesarean delivery has a long recovery period, and things like diabetes will prolong it. Here’s a look at some of the things that can help speed up your cesarean delivery.
- Rest
Resting is one of the most important things after a cesarean delivery. Usually, after the baby is born, the parent’s sleep patterns are disrupted. That’s why every time a baby sleeps, the mother should rest.
- walking
It is forbidden to do strenuous activities and lift heavy objects during the first few weeks after delivery. Walking is always recommended for the mother. Walking prevents blood clots and cardiovascular problems.
- Pain control by taking painkillers prescribed by a doctor
- Check for signs of infection
- Prevention of constipation
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Hormonal changes, weakened muscles and stomach muscles, and prolonged lying down can cause constipation. Severe constipation itself is one of the causes of pressure and damage to incisions and stitches.
Drinking water and fluids, taking laxatives, or eating high-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables can help prevent constipation.
- A healthy and balanced diet
A healthy diet is another point that mothers should consider after giving birth. Breastfeeding mothers must include nutritious, healthy foods and a high-protein diet.
Consumption of vegetables makes breast milk taste better and the baby enjoys breastfeeding. Drinking water and fluids will also increase breast milk.