Caesarean Section Preparation Research Paper
Over the years birthing methods have changed a great deal. When technology wasn’t so advanced there was only one method of giving birth, vaginally non-medicated. However, in today’s society there are now more than one method of giving birth. In fact, there are three methods: Non-medicated vaginal delivery, medicated vaginal delivery and cesarean delivery, also known as c-section. In the cesarean delivery there is not much to prepare for before the operation, except maybe the procedure of the operation. A few things that will be discussed are: the process of cesarean delivery, reasons for this birthing method and a few reasons for why this birthing method is used. Caesarean Section Preparation Research Paper Also a question that many women have is whether or not they can vaginally deliver after a cesarean delivery, as well as the risks and benefits if it. Delivering a child by a c-section also has a few advantages and disadvantages for both the mother and child; this will also be discussed in more depth a bit later.
Unlike vaginal birth delivery, the process of a cesarean delivery is quite different, but just as safe as giving vaginal birth (Taylor, 1). When delivering a baby using the cesarean method, there are two ways anesthetic can be used. The women can be put into an unconscious state using the anesthetic, therefore she will be asleep during the entire operation and her coach may not be present. The other way for the anesthetic to be used would be in an epidural or spinal block to temporarily numb the woman from her waist down. In this case the mother will be awake and her coach may be present to give her extra support. Once the anesthetic is working, an incision is made in the abdomen either horizontally or vertically, depending on the reason for the cesarean delivery. A vertical incision is made when the baby is in trouble and needs to be out as quickly as possible, when there is more time the horizontal incision is used. The baby is then lifted out of the uterus and gone for the APGAP procedure. The placenta is then removed and the mother’s reproductive organs are examined before closing the incision (Taylor, 1).Caesarean Section Preparation Research Paper
Cesarean birthing method can be voluntary as well as involuntary.
The maternal mortality rate is highest in the postpartum period, so special consideration needs to be given to the care of the mother. If you are a single mother or your partner has to return to work shortly after the birth of the child, try to organize a support team prior to the birth of your child to help during this time.
The support team can include family, church members, new mother support groups, or a postpartum doula.
Take time to understand the limitations of a new mother and the kind of care that might be necessary. Keep in mind that it is normal for a new mother to feel overwhelmed emotionally and physically drained. Open communication with your health care provider and your support team is very important.Caesarean Section Preparation Research Paper
Let someone know if you are feeling discouraged or weighed down. Don’t be afraid to ASK FOR HELP!!
Physical Care After a Cesarean:
Before leaving the hospital:
- You will be encouraged to get up and try to go the bathroom within the first 24 hours after surgery. This will help start the healing process and get you used to moving around with your incision. Remember to move slowly because you might experience dizziness or shortness of breath.
- Urinating after the catheter is removed can sometimes be painful. Ask your nurse or attendant to suggest ways to make it easier.
- If staples were used for your incision they will most likely be removed before you leave the hospital.
- Talk with your health care provider about dealing with pain after the surgery. If medication is something you think you might want, get a prescription and information about the side affects for both yourself–and the baby, if you are breastfeeding. If you prefer to avoid medications, talk with your health care provider about alternatives that are safe for you and your baby.
- Your uterus will begin the “involution” process which is is the shrinking of the uterus to its per-pregnancy size. You will begin to experience heavy bleeding of bright red blood—This is called lochia and can continue for up to 6 weeks. You will need to have extra-absorbent menstrual pads which the hospital should provide after delivery. Do not use tampons during this time.
- Gentle strolls around the hospital or rocking in a chair can help speed the recovery and help with gas that can develop after abdominal surgery.Caesarean Section Preparation Research Paper
After Going Home:
- Your activity level should be kept low until your health care provider suggests an increase of activity. Initially, you should avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby, and avoid most housework.
- Your lochia bleeding will change over time and can increase with activity and position changes. Use your bleeding as a way of making sure that you are not involved in too much activity. Lochia will change over time to pale pink or a dark red color, and then eventually to a yellowish or light color.
- Make certain that you are getting plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated, and eat healthy meals to restore your energy and prevent constipation.
- Have changing stations and feeding supplies close to you so that you do not have to get up too often.
- Be alert to any fever or pain, which can both be signs of infection.
Things to Avoid:
- Sexual intercourse until your health care provider tells you that it is safe
- The use of tampons or douche
- Taking baths until your incision is healed and you are no longer bleeding
- Public pools and hot tubs
- Lifting anything heavier than your baby
- Repeatedly using stairs
- Exercise, at least until your health care provider gives you the go-ahead
Emotional Care After a Cesarean:
- Take additional time daily to sit and bond with your baby
- If you are having a hard time with breastfeeding after the cesarean delivery, contact a lactation consultant for direction and support.
- Understand that you might need to take time to decompress emotionally after the surgery, especially if the procedure involved an emergency.
- To help deal with any negative feelings about your experience, discuss the birth experience with your support person.
- Get clarification from your health care provider about questions you might have about your pregnancy experience. This can help eliminate any anxiety you may have about getting pregnant again.
- Do not be afraid to ask for help! The extra physical care required after a cesarean can make a woman feel inadequate, overwhelmed and lonely.Caesarean Section Preparation Research Paper
Reasons to Call Your Health Care Provider Immediately:
- Fever of over 100.4° F
- Severe headache that begins right after birth and does not let up in intensity
- Sudden onset of pain in the abdominal area, such as tenderness to touch or burning sensation
- Foul odor from vaginal discharge
- Sudden onset of pain in the incision area that can include a pus discharge
- Swollen, red, painful area in the leg
- Burning urination or blood in the urine
- Appearance of rash or hives
- Extremely heavy bleeding that soaks a maxi pad within an hour, or the passing of large clots
- Sore, red, painful area on the breasts that may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms
- Feelings of anxiety, panic, and/or depression
Pregnant and looking forward to the big day? All to-be-parents are faced with the big question of whether to go with the long followed traditional method of childbirth or to go for the recently becoming popular Cesarean or C-section birth.
Vaginal Birth Vs C-Section Delivery
Mothers have been giving birth ever since the beginning of time when there were no ultrasound machines or even hospitals. It is now with the advancements in technology that mothers have an option of choosing another way of childbirth and avoiding going into a long and painful labor. A comparison of C-section vs normal delivery gives parents important insights into their options for childbirth.