When vaginal birth isn’t an option, a woman may have a C-section, also called a cesarean birth. During this procedure, the baby is delivered through an incision made in the mother’s abdomen and womb. OB/GYNs at Riverview Health may recommend a C-section based on a variety of factors, one being the safety of the mother and child.
If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of a C-section in Noblesville, IN, speak with a skilled obstetrician at Riverview Health.
Your doctor will help you determine which delivery method is best for you and your baby. Conditions that may require a C-section include:
If your provider recommends a C-section, you’ll be given anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain. After the surgical team has applied an antiseptic solution to your abdomen, the surgeon will make an incision in your abdomen and womb, deliver your baby and then close your incisions. When possible, your surgeon may use spinal anesthesia, or an epidural, to numb the area from your waist down. You’ll be awake during the procedure but won’t feel any pain. In other cases, general anesthesia may be used, which will put you to sleep during the operation.
A C-section procedure generally lasts about one hour, and the baby is born within the first few minutes.
Once the procedure is complete, you’ll need to stay in the hospital to recover for several days. During this time, your doctor and nurses will check your incision frequently to make sure it’s healing properly. You’ll be given medication for pain as needed.
Compared to a vaginal birth, recovery from a C-section takes a bit longer. Your doctor will guide you on how to rest after the procedure and when it’s safe to return to normal activities. It’s important to alert your doctor if you experience a fever, drainage or redness at the incision site and any other discomforts during your recovery process.
If you’ve had a previous C-section, you may be able to have a vaginal birth for your next delivery. This option is called a VBAC, also known as vaginal birth after cesarean. Every woman and each birth experience is unique, so it’s important to consult with your OB/GYN about what’s best and safe for you and your baby.
We’re here to help you have the safest and smoothest delivery possible. An experienced OB/GYN at Riverview Health can help you learn more about C-sections in Noblesville. For more information, request an appointment by calling 317.565.0535 or by completing an online appointment request form.
