A cesarian-section is a method of giving birth through a surgical incision in the abdomen. There are many situations that call for a c-section, such as the baby being in distress, the baby appearing feet instead of head first (breech), if your placenta is covering part of your cervix (placenta previa), or if you have had a previous c-section. Although c-sections are common practice, there is still a possibility of developing complications during and after your surgery.
Hemorrhage
You may lose more blood with a c-section than with a vaginal birth, states the Mayo Clinic. Your obstetrician will estimate the amount of blood lost during your surgery. Your blood count will be monitored the day after your c-section to make sure that you are not anemic. If your blood count falls too low, either additional iron supplementation or a blood transfusion may be necessary. Symptoms associated with increased blood loss following surgery include a pale appearance, fatigue, dizziness and lightheadedness.
Infection
Any surgical procedure in which the skin is broken is a risk factor for infection. Symptoms of infection at the site of your incision include redness, swelling and increased pus or drainage that may be have a foul odor. The lining of the uterus may also become infected (endometritis). You may develop a fever, chills, abdominal pain and feel fatigued. These infections are usually treated in the hospital with intravenous antibiotics.
Increased Risk for Future Pregnancies
After a c-section, you face a higher risk of potentially serious complications, including bleeding, placenta previa, abnormal fetal positions and tearing of the uterus along the scar line from the prior c-section (uterine rupture), in a subsequent pregnancy than you would after a vaginal delivery, reports the Mayo Clinic. Your physician may recommend any future pregnancies be delivered by c-section to reduce your risk of these complications.
