Caesarean Birth

What is Caesarean Birth?

Caesarean section is a birth method in which the baby is removed from the mother’s abdomen and uterine wall through a surgical incision. This method is preferred when normal vaginal birth is not possible or when there are situations that risk the health of the mother or the baby. Caesarean section can be performed on a planned basis or when an emergency requires it. Planned cesarean delivery is performed at a specific week of pregnancy due to certain medical reasons or the mother’s preference. Emergency caesarean birth is an intervention that is decided suddenly due to complications that arise during the birth process. Caesarean section is considered a safe birth method for mother and baby, but since it is a surgical procedure, the recovery period may be longer than a vaginal birth.

How Many Hours Does Caesarean Birth Take?

Cesarean delivery time usually takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, including preparation stages and surgical intervention. The surgery itself takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, but when additional time such as preparation, anesthesia administration, and post-operative care are taken into account, the total time can approach 1 hour. During surgery, the mother is usually given spinal or epidural anesthesia, which allows the mother to remain awake and experience the birth of the baby. General anesthesia is used in rarer cases. After the baby is removed, the doctor stitches the uterus and abdominal wall, and this process usually takes 20-30 minutes. After cesarean delivery, the mother rests for a while for the effects of anesthesia to wear off and for the first evaluations to be made.

In Which Week Does Caesarean Birth Occur?

Planned caesarean births are usually performed in the 39th week of pregnancy. This is the period when the baby’s lungs are fully developed and the chances of survival after birth are highest. Caesarean births before the 39th week can increase the risk of premature birth and increase the likelihood that the baby will need intensive care unit. However, due to certain medical reasons or complications, doctors may find it necessary to perform a cesarean delivery in the earlier weeks. For example, if there is a life-threatening situation for the mother or baby, a cesarean delivery can be planned starting from the 37th week.

Emergency caesarean births can be performed at any week of pregnancy due to complications that occur during or just before the birth process. Emergency situations such as abnormalities in the baby’s heartbeat, sudden changes in the mother’s health condition, or the baby getting stuck in the birth canal may require a cesarean delivery.

Is Caesarean Birth a Difficult Surgery?

Although Caesarean section is a fairly common and routine surgical procedure by medical standards, it can be technically challenging and requires caution. The surgeon carefully cuts through the mother’s abdomen and uterus and removes the baby. This procedure is performed under sterile conditions and uses general anesthesia, epidural or spinal anesthesia. Throughout the surgery process, the surgeon and medical team closely monitor the health of the mother and baby. Caesarean section is performed by experienced surgeons to reduce the risks of complications and is meticulously controlled at every stage. Complications that may occur during or after surgery include bleeding, infection, or reactions to anesthesia, but these complications are rare and can usually be managed quickly and effectively.

How to Take a Bath After Caesarean Birth?

Bathing after a cesarean section should be done with caution during the first few weeks. It is important to keep the area clean and dry for the wound to heal after surgery. Bathing is generally avoided for the first 24-48 hours and the stitches are prevented from coming into contact with water for the period recommended by the doctor. Generally, in the first week, light showers with warm water are preferred instead of baths. When showering, it is important to protect the stitch area from direct water flow and wash it gently. During bathing, anti-bacterial soaps can be used, but harsh rubbing of the stitch area should be avoided. After a shower, gently drying the stitch area with a soft towel and using creams or ointments recommended by the doctor will contribute to the healing process. It usually takes 4-6 weeks for the stitches to heal completely, after which your doctor may allow you to take full baths.

Harms and Benefits of Caesarean Birth

Caesarean birth may be a necessary and beneficial intervention in certain cases to protect the health of the mother and baby, but since it is a surgical procedure, it also has some risks and possible harms.

Caesarean birth can be lifesaving for mother and baby. Caesarean section is preferred, especially if the baby is stuck in the birth canal, the mother’s pelvic structure is not suitable for the baby’s passage, or if there are abnormalities in the baby’s heartbeat. Additionally, planned caesarean births allow the baby’s birth time to be determined in advance, which allows the mother and doctor to be better prepared for the birth process. Caesarean section reduces the risk of complications during labor and makes the birth process more controllable. Caesarean section may also be preferred due to pre-existing problems in the mother’s uterus or birth canal or complications experienced in previous births.

Caesarean birth carries some risks because it is a surgical intervention. Factors such as the risk of post-operative infection, bleeding, anesthesia-related complications and a longer recovery period are the negative aspects of cesarean delivery. Recovery time after surgery is usually longer than after vaginal birth, and the mother needs more time to return to normal daily activities. Additionally, after a caesarean birth, the mother may stay in the hospital longer and experience postpartum pain and discomfort. Caesarean section may lead to long-term health problems in the mother, such as postpartum adhesions and the risk of complications in future births.

As a result, cesarean delivery may be the safest and most necessary birth method in some cases for mother and baby. However, since it is a surgical procedure, it carries some risks and the recovery process may be longer. It is important that the decision for cesarean delivery is made based on the health status of the mother and the baby, how the birth process progresses, and the doctor’s evaluation. It is necessary for expectant mothers to have detailed information about birth methods and to make the most appropriate birth plan together with their doctors for a healthy and safe birth process.

Caesarean Birth Anesthesia Types

The types of anesthesia used during cesarean delivery are important to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby and to ensure a comfortable birth process. The most common types of anesthesia are epidural anesthesia, spinal anesthesia and general anesthesia.

Epidural Anesthesia: Epidural anesthesia involves the continuous administration of anesthetic medication through a catheter placed in the lower part of the spine. This method ensures numbness of the mother from the waist down and prevents her from feeling pain during birth. Epidural anesthesia allows the mother to remain awake and experience the birthing process. It is also useful in postpartum pain management because anesthetic medication can continue to be administered through the catheter.

Spinal Anesthesia: Spinal anesthesia involves administering an anesthetic drug to the lumbar region with a single injection. This method takes effect rapidly by injecting an anesthetic drug directly into the spinal fluid. Spinal anesthesia ensures complete numbness of the mother from the waist down and is generally the preferred method for cesarean deliveries. This type of anesthesia also allows the mother to remain awake and enables active participation in the birth process.

General Anesthesia: General anesthesia involves completely putting the mother to sleep and turning off her consciousness. This method is used for emergency cesarean deliveries or when epidural or spinal anesthesia is not possible. During general anesthesia, the mother does not feel anything and does not remember the birth process. However, the recovery period after general anesthesia may be longer and the mother may not be able to meet her baby immediately after birth.

Advantages of Caesarean Birth

There are many advantages to a cesarean section, especially when certain medical conditions or complications are involved.

Controlled Birth Process: Caesarean birth can be done in a planned manner and makes the birth process more controllable. This makes it possible for the mother and the doctor to better prepare for birth and take all the necessary precautions.

Reduces the Risk of Complications: Situations such as the baby getting stuck in the birth canal, unsuitable mother’s pelvic structure, or abnormalities in the baby’s heartbeat can be safely managed with cesarean delivery. Caesarean section reduces the risk of such complications and protects the health of the mother and baby.

Safe for Those Who Have Experienced Complications in Previous Births: For women who have experienced complications in previous births, a cesarean section may be a safe option. Additionally, cesarean delivery is preferred in cases where vaginal birth is not possible due to structural problems in the uterus or birth canal.

Planned Birth Date: Planned caesarean births allow the date of birth to be determined in advance, which makes it easier for the mother and doctor to prepare for birth. Planned births can be advantageous, especially when the mother or baby has certain health problems.

Types of Caesarean Birth

There are various types of ceasarean birth and each is applied according to specific situations and needs.

Planned Caesarean Birth: This type of caesarean birth is planned in advance due to certain medical reasons or the mother’s preference. Planned cesarean delivery is usually performed in the 39th week of pregnancy. This is the period when the baby’s lungs are fully developed and have the best chance of post-natal survival.

Emergency Caesarean Section: Emergency Caesarean section is a birth method performed suddenly due to sudden complications that occur during the birth process. Emergency situations such as abnormalities in the baby’s heartbeat, sudden changes in the mother’s health condition, or unexpected problems in the birth canal may require an emergency cesarean delivery.

Repeat Caesarean Birth: Women who have had a previous caesarean birth can often choose to have a caesarean birth again. Repeat caesarean births are preferred to reduce the risk of opening the previous incision in the uterus. This type of birth can be planned or emergency and is decided based on the health status of the mother and the baby.

Classic Caesarean Birth: Classic caesarean birth is the removal of the baby through a vertical incision on the uterus. This type of cesarean delivery is rarely used and is usually preferred due to existing problems in the womb or emergencies. Conventional caesarean birth, recovery time may be longer and the risk of complications may be higher.

Symptoms of Caesarean Birth

A cesarean section is usually a planned procedure and is performed out of medical necessity or the mother’s preference rather than specific indications. However, in some cases, an emergency cesarean delivery may be necessary and certain symptoms may occur. For example, situations such as sudden changes in the baby’s heartbeat, a sudden deterioration in the mother’s health condition, the birth process not progressing, or the baby getting stuck in the birth canal may require an emergency cesarean delivery. In planned caesarean births, you usually go to the hospital for surgery on a certain date and time and the necessary preparations are made before the surgery. In emergency cases, the decision to deliver a cesarean section is made quickly as a result of noticing the symptoms and evaluating the doctor.

Things to Consider Before Going into Cesarean Delivery

There are a few important points to consider before cesarean delivery. On the day of surgery, it is important to wear comfortable clothes and take with you the personal items you will need after the surgery. You should follow your doctor’s pre-operative instructions, which may generally include not consuming food or drink the morning of surgery. You should also follow your doctor’s instructions about the use of certain medications before surgery. It is important to be psychologically prepared before a cesarean section, so you can do breathing exercises or meditation to relax and reduce your stress. Being with your family or relatives and getting support can also help you in this process.

How to Get Out of Bed After Caesarean Section?

Getting out of bed after cesarean delivery should be done carefully and gently. It is generally recommended to rest in bed for the first 24 hours after surgery, but you can begin to move slowly with your doctor’s approval. When getting out of bed, first slowly roll onto your side and let your legs hang over the edge of the bed. Slowly raise yourself to a sitting position with the help of your arm. Sit in this position for a few minutes to avoid dizziness or unsteadiness. When you feel ready, stand up slowly and get support from someone if necessary. Moving slowly and carefully prevents damage to the stitches in the surgery area and supports the healing process. It is important to avoid heavy lifting and sudden movements for the first few days. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and taking light walks after surgery can speed up the healing process.

It is important to take into account your doctor’s recommendations and seek help when necessary during the recovery process after cesarean delivery. Managing pain by using painkillers in the first days and keeping the surgical site clean and dry reduces the risk of infection and promotes healing. Additionally, regular doctor check-ups and monitoring your recovery can help detect any complications early.

In Which Position Should You Sleep After Caesarean Section?

Sleeping position after cesarean delivery is important to support the healing process and ensure a comfortable sleep. Lying on your back is one of the most comfortable and safe positions for the first few weeks. In this position, you can help the surgical site heal by avoiding putting pressure on the stitches. Using a few pillows to elevate your head and upper body slightly can help reduce swelling and make breathing easier. Sleeping gently on your side is another comfortable position. When lying on your side, placing pillows between your legs and back to support the abdominal area can increase comfort. However, be careful to avoid putting stress on your stitches. This position can relieve post-operative pain and provide more comfortable sleep. It is important to avoid sleeping face down to avoid putting pressure on your stitches and causing discomfort. Finding a comfortable sleeping position during post-operative recovery allows your body to rest and recover. It is also important to discuss your sleeping position with your doctor and take into account his recommendations.

Caesarean Section Prices 2024

Caesarean section birth in private hospitals often offers greater comfort and personalized services, but this can increase costs. Additionally, the cost of additional services such as epidural or spinal anesthesia during a caesarean birth may be included in the birth price. Caesarean section birth in public hospitals is generally lower cost and may be covered by insurance. However, the scope and comfort level of services offered in public hospitals may be more limited than in private hospitals. For individuals with health insurance, some or all of the costs of a caesarean birth may be covered by insurance, but for uninsured patients, treatment costs may be higher.

Cesarean delivery prices may also include the cost of pre- and postnatal check-ups, laboratory tests, ultrasounds, and other medical services. Therefore, it is important to consider all these costs when planning for birth. Getting information about costs before treatment and comparing prices offered by different healthcare institutions can help you make the most appropriate choice. Additionally, medications and medical supplies needed for postpartum care and recovery can also affect total costs.

As a result, having information about post-caesarean birth sleeping positions and caesarean birth prices allows expectant mothers to be better prepared for birth and the postpartum recovery process. Caesarean section may be the safest and most effective birth method in certain cases to protect the health of mother and baby. When planning birth, talking to your doctor in detail and evaluating all options is necessary for a healthy and safe birth process.