Although most women prefer natural birth, in some circumstances, a C-section may be necessary. Some C-sections are planned in advance, while others are performed urgently due to unexpected complications. (1)

When is a C-section Necessary?

A C-section is often needed when complications make traditional vaginal birth difficult, or put the mother or child at risk, such as wrong baby position, placental problems, or critical maternal health conditions. (2)

Situations where a C-section is necessary include: (3)(4)

• Labor stops progressing: When contractions fail to dilate the cervix enough to allow for smooth passage of the baby. 
• Abnormal fetal position: Such as breech (feet first) or transverse (sideways) position.
• Fetal distress: Such as umbilical cord compression or wrapping around the baby, or an abnormal fetal heart rate.
• Placental problems: such as placental abruption, placenta previa (a condition in which the placenta lies low and blocks the opening of the uterus), or pre-existing placental abnormalities.
• Multiple pregnancies: This is especially true if labor begins prematurely, the babies are positioned incorrectly, or complications arise during pregnancy. 
• Large baby size: Common in mothers with gestational diabetes, making it difficult for the baby to pass smoothly through the cervix. 
• Maternal health conditions: Such as cardiac disease, hypertension, diabetes, large uterine fibroids, fractured pelvis, or active infections (like HIV or herpes) to prevent transmission to the baby.
• Previous C-section or uterine surgery: A previous C-section or uterine surgery often increases the likelihood of needing another C-section.However, vaginal birth after cesarean is possible in some cases, and your doctor will discuss your options with you.
• Fetal abnormalities: A C-section might be the preferred option in the case of some fetal abnormalities, such as heart defects or spina bifida.

Vaginal Birth After C-section: Is it Possible?

Yes, many women who've had one C-section can successfully deliver vaginally in subsequent pregnancies. The chances are even higher if the woman has had a vaginal birth in the past. (5) Roughly  60-80% of attempted vaginal births after a previous cesarean are successful.

However, women who have had two or more C-sections usually need to continue with C-sections in the next pregnancies. (5)

Discussing your concerns

• In most cases, natural birth is preferred, but there are some cases where C-section is necessary. The most important thing is your health and the safety of your baby. You will begin a beautiful journey of motherhood regardless of the type of delivery.
• There are some benefits of a C-section, such as knowing your baby's delivery date in advance, which makes it easier to plan work and childcare issues. Additionally, you can avoid labor pain and anxiety.
• C-sections are generally safe, but like any kind of surgery, there are small risks of complications such as bleeding, infection, and blood clots.
• Expect a longer recovery period than with vaginal birth, but by following your doctor's instructions, everything will be smooth and without complication.
• Don't worry about the C-section scar. It's just a thin line in the lower abdomen and can be minimized by scar creams.

Safe and Comfortable C-Section

Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Department offers a safe and comfortable C-section experience with the highest level of medical care. Our specialized medical team supports you every step of the way, from consultation to post-delivery recovery, providing the best care for you and your baby.

References

1. HSE - Caesarean section: why you might need one
2. American Society of Anesthesiologists - C-Section
3. NICHD - What is a C-section?
4. UpToDate - Patient education: C-section (cesarean delivery) (Beyond the Basics)
5. HSE - Birth options after a caesarean‍
6. Mayo Clinic - C-section