C-Sections Deserve Respect as Major Surgery
In the world of childbirth, C-sections often take a back seat to vaginal deliveries when it comes to discussions about the seriousness of the procedure. It's time to shed light on the fact that C-sections are far from minor surgeries and deserve the same level of respect and understanding as any other major surgical procedure.
An Intricate Surgical Procedure:
C-sections, short for Cesarean sections, involve making a deliberate incision through the abdomen and uterus to safely deliver a baby. The process is meticulous and requires precision to protect both the mother and the child. Despite its commonality, it's essential to remember that this is not a simple "cut and lift" process. In fact, there are a total of 7 different layers that are cut before the surgeon reaches the baby. Several layers are then stitched up before the patient is taken off the OR table to a stretcher and then transferred to the PACU (post anesthesia care unit) where mom and baby are closely monitored by a nurse for any complications for at least 2 hours prior to being transferred off to the postpartum unit.
A Birth Plan Gone Awry:
It's a common belief that C-sections are an "easy way out" or a "backup plan." In reality, most mothers do not plan for a C-section, and truly dread having one. It's often a last resort when complications arise during labor, and the health and safety of the mother and child are at risk. These complications can include issues such as a breech baby, fetal distress, or a stalled labor.
A Longer Road to Recovery:
Unlike vaginal deliveries, where recovery is generally quicker, C-sections necessitate an extended healing period. Women who undergo C-sections are required to rest and recover for an extended period. To put it into perspective, a woman can stand pretty much right away after a vaginal delivery if she did not get an epidural. If she did, usually at about the 2 hour mark she has the full sensation and strength of her legs to get up again. A woman who undergoes a c-section, only gets up at the earliest 6 hours following the c-section. In some cases, the anesthesia can linger on and some have to wait until the 8 hour mark. This recovery can be physically and emotionally challenging, and women may experience pain and discomfort for weeks, if not months, after the procedure. Having a strong support system is even more critical for mothers who undergo c-sections as they are strongly encouraged not to carry or lift anything heavier than their baby in those first couple of weeks. Having stairs at home or a partner who is unable to take time off, makes it that more challenging as you are carrying for both your new baby and recovering from major surgery.
Increased Risk of Complications:
C-sections, like any surgical procedure, carry inherent risks. These can include infection, blood clots, injury to surrounding organs, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. There's also the potential for future complications, such as uterine scarring, which can impact fertility or lead to complications in subsequent pregnancies.
Emotional Impact:
Beyond the physical challenges, C-sections can have a profound emotional impact on mothers. Some women may feel like they missed out on a "natural" birth experience, leading to feelings of guilt or disappointment. Many women will have a general idea of how they want the birth to go, whereas some will have a very detailed plan of how they expect things to go. When the outcome is far from their desired birth it can be very upsetting. It’s also important to note that when a C-section is a plan B, oftentimes the woman has been in labour for hours and may have experienced a lot of the labour pains or even attempted pushing prior to a C-section being called, fostering feelings of frustration and at times of inadequacy and failure. In fact, the term that is often still used today is “failure to progress” which suggests that indeed it was the women’s fault when in reality it isn’t. The term “labour dystocia” or “stalled labour” is the term that has replaced the former one. It's essential to recognize that every birth is unique, and a C-section is a valid way to bring a child into the world.
Not a Choice, but a Necessity:
Perhaps one of the most critical points to remember is that a C-section is often not a choice but a necessary medical intervention. These surgeries save lives, both of mothers and babies, in critical situations. Downplaying their significance can undermine the crucial role they play in modern obstetrics. With in saying that, there is also the overuse of C-sections when it is often not required and could have been prevented if other things are put in place to prevent that from becoming the only option. Certain countries have way higher C-section rates than others, for a number of factors. In five countries (Dominican Republic, Brazil, Cyprus, Egypt and Turkey), cesarean sections now outnumber vaginal deliveries. Whether it be a personal choice, or provider preference, proper education on the short and long term risks of a C-section should be properly discussed with patients prior.
In conclusion, it's time to give C-sections the respect they deserve. These surgeries are complex, often life-saving, and not to be taken lightly. They deserve recognition for the physical and emotional toll they take on mothers. Every birth is a unique journey, and every mother should be celebrated for bringing new life into the world, regardless of the method. It's time to change the narrative and give C-sections the recognition and respect they rightfully deserve.
