Common risks and complications of cesearean sections
Cesarean sections, also known as a c-section, are a common occurrence in the Untied States. In fact, according to the USA Today, in 2006 a little over 31% of all births were completed by c-section. This figure is startling since the World Health Organization recommends no more than 15% of all births be delivered by cesarean.
Many of these births are planned as a means to reduce the dangers to the mother and the baby and to reduce the risk of complications during a vaginal birth during specific circumstances. Other times, certain obstetricians prefer to use cesarean delivery as a means to reduce
medical malpractice liability and/or to deliver the babies on the parents’ own time schedule.
Major Surgery
The reality of the situation is that a cesarean section is major surgery and therefore is not without its share of risks and complications. The doctor must cut into the abdomen as well as the uterus to remove the baby. Since a c-section is sometimes performed because the mother and/or child are some sort of distress, the surgical risks increase.
Complications
Possible Minor Complications – most of these are common and they usually clear up within a few days or weeks after delivery:
- Shock
- Blood transfusion
- Infection
- Minor bleeding
- Hemorrhoids
- Catheterization
- Urinary tract infection
- Constipation
- Abnormal scar
- Allergic skin reaction
- Incisional hernias
- Ileus (a temporary stoppage of bowel activity)
- Decreased bowel function
- Increased risks during future pregnancies
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