
When to have a ceasarean.
Hi,
In what circumstances would a caesarian section be offered?
Caesarean sections are offered wherever natural birth is not possible, or when it would jeopardise the health of the mother or baby.
These situations normally fall into two categories:
1) Problems with the mother.
These can include physical problems, such as:
A small pelvis;
Conditions which would make labour difficult or impossible, like heart conditions or respiratory problems;
Conditions which could affect the ftus, such as diabetes or incompatible blood groups:
Problems with perineum which prevent an incision being made, if needed, such as scarring or tumours;
Abnormalities or scarring of the uterus.
Problems during labour itself, such as:
Inability to cope with very strong contractions despite anaesthesia;
Risk of haemorrhage;
Fibroids, preventing a natural delivery;
2) Problems with foetus:
Ftus in distress, eg cord has become wrapped around neck, eclampsia or awkward position;
Physical problems with ftus, such as malformation of shoulders, arms or head.(Ftus' condition is monitored during the birth by measuring heartbeat and using ultrasound pictures.) Other factors include a very large baby, weighing more than 4000g, a premature baby, problems with uterine contractions, an older mother giving birth for the first time and other high-risk cases.
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