What happens during a cesarean section?

Answer 1

There are several different techniques for performing a cesarean section ("C-section"), but they all are roughly similar. The first step is to sedate and anesthetize the mother. Traditionally this was done with full anesthesia which put the mother to sleep temporarily. Now, however, this is commonly achieved with the use of an epidural anesthetic which removes all sensation below the bellybutton, approximately. The mother will often be given something to calm her, as well, if she chooses. After ensuring that the mother's abdomen is properly anesthetized, the surgeon will make an incision in the lower abdomen or pelvis, depending on the particular technique being used. The traditional C-section made use of a vertical incision from just below the bellybutton down to the pelvis. This is almost never done now. The incision is usually made horizontally, near the place where the waistband of the panties would normally sit. While the incision is being made, care is taken to reduce the amount of bleeding from the small blood vessels of the lower abdomen, often with an electrocautery ("Bovie"). Slowly, the surgeon will incise deeper until the uterus comes into view. Once the uterus is exposed, it must be incised as well. This part happens very quickly, because it is important to get the infant out as soon as possible once the uterus is opened. The uterus is opened, the infant is gently pulled out, and its respiratory passages are suctioned to facilitate breathing. The umbilical cord is clamped and cut, and the baby is handed to the mother or to the nursing staff for initial newborn care. The placenta is removed and the interior of the uterus is checked with the hand to ensure no remaining placental fragments are present. The uterus is then sutured closed and is placed back into its proper place in the pelvis. The pelvis is irrigated with sterile water and suction is used to vacuum out any intrauterine fluid that may have escaped into the pelvis during delivery. The incision in the abdomen is then closed in several layers, with the surface skin being closed last. The surface may be closed with sutures or with staples, depending on the surgeon's preference. Pain medications are prescribed for the mother during the post-operative period, as well as antibiotics in some cases. Generally, the staples will be removed within a couple of weeks.

Answer 2

A c-section is normally performed, when the baby becomes stressed during child birth, or the mother has become too tired, or is having difficulties. Other reasons for a c-section include placenta problems, breached baby, or multiple birth. There are probably more medical reasons for a c-section, but these are just a few of them.

Answer 3

The anesthetist gives lumber anesthesia. So that you are conscious during the procedure. He will give some mild sedative drug, so that you do not become panicky. Surgeon clean the abdominal wall. He gives horizontal cut on the lower abdominal wall. You feel no pain. As you are under anesthesia. Once the abdominal wall is opened, you have the big expanded uterus in front of the surgeon. Then he will give a cut. The fluid starts coming out. Assistant sucks the fluid via suction machine. surgeon take out the baby by head first. The umbilical chord is clamped. The umbilical chord is cut. They baby is placed in a sterile tray. Then pediatrician looks after the baby. Surgeon take out the placenta manually. Anesthetist gives necessary injections to have the uterus contracted and retracted. The uterus closed in layers. The abdominal wall is closed in layers. Once you are out of operation theater and regain consciousness, baby is presented to you. At least I used to do it. See the happiness on her face. Then see the expression of the mother as you put the baby to her breast for sucking.

Answer 4

Most C-sections have a low transverse incision.

Answer 5

C-sections are performed by making an incision into the uterus in order to pull the baby out