Caesarean section, also known as C-section, refers to the surgical delivery of a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.

While this procedure has proven to be a lifesaver in certain situations, such as in cases of medical emergencies, it also carries hidden risks that many women are not aware of.

Risk of Infection

Anytime an incision is made into the body, there’s a risk of infection. Women who undergo a C-section are more likely to experience an infection compared to those who give birth vaginally.

The chance of developing an infection increases with the length of time the surgery takes, so it’s important that the procedure is done as quickly as possible. Signs of infection may include fever, redness and swelling around the incision site, and unusual vaginal discharge.

Delayed Bonding

The World Health Organization recommends early bonding between a mother and her newborn to promote emotional attachment and improve breastfeeding success.

However, mothers who deliver via C-section often experience a delay in this process due to the surgery. They may be unable to hold or breastfeed their baby for some time after the procedure, which can impact their bonding experience.

Risk of Respiratory Distress

Babies born via C-section are at an increased risk of developing respiratory distress syndrome due to not being fully exposed to certain hormones that are released during a vaginal delivery.

This condition can cause difficulty breathing and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Higher Chance of Blood Clots

C-sections increase the risk of developing blood clots in the legs or lungs. This can be especially dangerous for women who are already at a higher risk of developing blood clots due to factors such as obesity or a history of blood clots.

Increased Risk of Future Pregnancy Complications

Women who have had a C-section are at increased risk of certain complications during future pregnancies, such as placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix) or placental abruption (when the placenta separates from the uterus).

These conditions can be life-threatening for both the mother and baby.

Scar Tissue Build-Up

C-sections can lead to the build-up of scar tissue in the abdomen, which can cause pain and severely impact the ability to conceive in the future.

Scar tissue can also make future C-sections more difficult and increase the risk of complications such as bleeding and infection.

Increased Risk of Postpartum Depression

Women who deliver via C-section are more likely to experience postpartum depression compared to those who deliver vaginally.

The reasons for this are not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the changes in hormone levels that occur during a C-section and the stress of undergoing surgery.

Longer Recovery Time

Recovery from a C-section can take longer than from a vaginal delivery. Women who undergo a C-section may experience pain, difficulty moving around, and a longer hospital stay compared to those who deliver vaginally.

This can also impact their ability to care for their newborn during the early weeks after delivery.

Breastfeeding Difficulties

Mothers who undergo a C-section may experience difficulty establishing breastfeeding. This may be due to the delay in bonding with their newborn or due to the stress of surgery.

Breastfeeding is important for both the mother and baby, and women who plan to deliver via C-section should discuss strategies with their healthcare provider to establish successful breastfeeding.

Increased Healthcare Costs

C-sections are more expensive than vaginal deliveries and can result in higher healthcare costs.

Women who undergo C-sections may need to stay in the hospital longer, require additional medications or procedures, and may experience longer recovery times that result in lost income or increased caregiving expenses. The cost of a C-section varies depending on the location, but on average, a C-section costs around $25,000 compared to $15,000 for a vaginal delivery.

Conclusion

C-sections are a common procedure and can be life-saving in certain situations. However, they carry hidden risks and potential complications that women should be aware of when making decisions about their birth plan.

It’s important to discuss all options with your healthcare provider and weigh the potential risks and benefits to make an informed decision about your delivery.