Your Questions About C-Sections Answered

Here are some common questions mums-to-be have about Caesarean sections, as well as the answers you need

By Dr Michelle LIM, Associate Consultant and Associate Professor Tan Thiam Chye, Visiting Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital

At week 33 of pregnancy, you're mighty close to the magical moment of labour. Here are some common questions many expectant mums may have about Caesarean sections:

What is a Caesarean Section?

A C-section is an operation to deliver the baby through the tummy. This happens when a mum cannot give birth to her little one through the vagina or when it's medically advisable not to do so. It can be planned in advance or performed in an emergency.

Related: Cesarean Section Delivery

What Happens During a Caesarean Section?

You'll be given a regional anaesthetic (spinal or epidural) which allows you to feel no pain from your waist downwards or a general anaesthetic to make you sleep through the surgery
A skin incision is made at the lower part of your tummy so your doctor can access the womb
The womb wall is opened and your doctor will deliver your baby
Your doctor will cut the umbilical cord, remove the placenta and close the womb wall and your tummy incision

If your baby is well, you can have skin-to-skin contact after your baby has been cleaned and weighed! You can start breastfeeding once you're awake and back in the ward. You'll likely need to stay in hospital for observation and recovery for two to three days. Upon discharge, you'll also be given a date to return for your follow-up appointment.

Will I Need a Caesarean Section?

You'll only need a Caesarean delivery if any of these conditions occur:

Your baby is too large for the birth canal and cannot be delivered via a vaginal birth
Your baby is not in the right position in the womb
If you have a history of surgery on your womb
If your placenta is lying too low or covering the birth canal opening
If your placenta separates prematurely from the womb wall
If the umbilical cord slips downwards and below the baby's head, which can constrict blood supply to your baby
If you have pre-existing medical conditions that preclude a vaginal delivery — your doctor will advise you on an individual basis

Are There Any Risks I Should Be Aware Of?

The procedure is quite commonly performed and some risks include bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding structures such as the bladder, blood vessels and nerves, and a higher risk of developing a blood clot in the legs after surgery.

Another thing to note is that women who've had a C-section are likely to require one again in the future — once again, your doctor will discuss your options on a case-by-case basis.

Related: Pregnancy Complications