Caesarean delivery

Caesarean (C-Section) Delivery in Erode

சிசேரியன் அறுவை சிகிச்சைப் பிரசவம்

A caesarean (C-section) is an operation to deliver your baby through a cut in the tummy and womb. It is planned when it is the safer choice for you or your baby, and done urgently when labour or your baby’s condition needs it. Dr. Jayanthi Prabakaran explains the reason, the operation and your recovery clearly, so you know what to expect.

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What it is
When it is advised
Before the operation
The operation
Recovery
Warning signs
Next pregnancy
Costs
FAQs

What is a caesarean section?

In a caesarean section, the doctor makes a cut in the lower tummy and the womb, and delivers the baby through it. The operation is done in an operation theatre by a team that includes an obstetrician, an anaesthetist and nurses. It is a very common operation, and when it is needed it protects both mother and baby.

A caesarean is not a “lesser” way to give birth. A normal delivery is usually the preferred route when it is safe, but a caesarean can be lifesaving, and nobody should feel guilty about having one. Read about normal delivery and when a caesarean is advised.

When may a caesarean be advised?

The safest way for your baby to be born depends on you, your baby and how labour is going. A caesarean may be advised in the situations below. Your doctor will explain which one applies to you.

Planned, before labour starts

the placenta covers the cervix (placenta praevia)
the baby is lying sideways, or bottom-first in some cases
twins or more, in some cases
a previous caesarean or womb surgery, depending on the scar and the reason for it
certain medical conditions of the mother, or an infection that could pass to the baby

Urgent, during pregnancy or labour

labour is not progressing as expected
the baby’s heartbeat shows that the baby is not coping well
bleeding because the placenta has separated early, or another emergency
a serious risk to the mother’s health

Before the operation

A clear discussionYour doctor explains why a caesarean is advised, the benefits and the risks, and answers your questions. You are asked to give your consent.
Tests and preparationBlood tests, including your blood group and haemoglobin, and a review of your scans and reports, as advised. You will be told when to stop eating and drinking.
The anaesthetist’s checkThe anaesthetist talks to you about the type of anaesthesia that is safest for you. Most women are awake and numb from the waist down, and some need a general anaesthetic. The anaesthetist advises you.
Getting readyPack your hospital bag, keep your reports and earlier scans with you, and tell the team about any medicines, allergies or health conditions.

During the operation

The operation usually takes under an hour, and your baby is usually born within the first few minutes. If you are awake, you may feel pressure and tugging, but not pain. Your baby is checked by the team right after birth and, where it is safe, you can see and hold your baby early and begin breastfeeding. The rest of the time is spent closing the womb and the wound carefully.

Recovery after a caesarean

In hospital. You usually stay a few days. The team watches your bleeding, wound, pain and passing of urine, and helps you sit up, stand and walk early. Moving early helps your recovery.
Pain relief. You are given pain relief that is suitable while breastfeeding. Take only what your doctor advises.
Your wound. Keep it clean and dry, follow the dressing and stitch advice you are given, and do not put creams or home remedies on it unless your doctor says so.
Bleeding. Some bleeding and discharge for several weeks is normal and should get lighter over time.
Rest and activity. Short walks help. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby and avoid strenuous work for as long as your doctor advises. Ask before you drive.
Feeding and food. Breastfeeding can usually start soon after the operation, with help to find comfortable positions. Eat balanced meals, drink enough water and continue the iron and calcium your doctor advises.
Your checkup. A postnatal checkup is usually advised around six weeks after delivery. Your doctor may ask you to come earlier to check your wound.

Read more about postnatal care after delivery.

Warning signs: when to come in immediately

After a caesarean, call 97505 11225 or come to the hospital straight away if you have:

a fever or chills
a wound that becomes red, swollen or painful, leaks fluid or pus, or opens
heavy bleeding (soaking a pad every hour or two) or large clots
foul-smelling vaginal discharge
severe tummy pain, or pain that keeps getting worse
pain or swelling in one leg, chest pain or sudden breathlessness
burning or difficulty when passing urine
a red, hot, painful area on a breast, with fever
feeling very low or hopeless, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Emergency care is available 24 hours a day. In a life-threatening emergency, dial 108 or 112 for an ambulance.

Another pregnancy after a caesarean

Many women have a healthy pregnancy and delivery after a caesarean. Your doctor will advise how long to wait before your next pregnancy so that the scar on your womb heals well, and will plan your next delivery with you. Some women can safely try for a normal delivery (VBAC), and others are advised a repeat caesarean. It depends on why the earlier caesarean was done, your scar and how the next pregnancy goes. Read about normal delivery after a caesarean.

If your next pregnancy has extra risks, see our high-risk pregnancy care.

Costs

The cost of a caesarean depends on the room you choose, the type of anaesthesia, the length of your stay and any extra care you or your baby need. We explain the expected costs clearly before treatment, with no hidden fees. Call or WhatsApp 97505 11225 to discuss your situation.

This page is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor after an examination.

Questions answered

Frequently asked questions

Is a caesarean safe?

It is a very common operation and is generally safe when it is done by a trained team. Like any operation it has risks, for example infection, bleeding or a reaction to the anaesthetic, which your doctor will explain. A caesarean is advised when its benefits for you or your baby are greater than these risks.

Can I ask for a caesarean?

The decision is made together with your doctor, after looking at your health, your baby’s health and how your pregnancy is going. For most healthy pregnancies a normal delivery is safer and recovery is quicker. Dr. Jayanthi Prabakaran will talk through your options and your concerns.

Will I feel pain during the operation?

With spinal or epidural anaesthesia you are awake but numb from the waist down, so you may feel pressure or tugging but not pain. Some women need a general anaesthetic and are asleep. The anaesthetist decides what is safest and explains it before the operation.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

Usually a few days. The team checks your wound, bleeding, pain and feeding, and you go home when you are recovering well. Your doctor will tell you what to expect for you.

When can I do my normal activities again?

Gentle walking starts early. Most women need several weeks before they return to normal daily work, and should avoid heavy lifting in that time. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe to drive or exercise.

Can I breastfeed after a caesarean?

Yes. Breastfeeding can usually start soon after the operation. Ask the nurses to help you find comfortable positions, and tell us if you have pain or worries about your milk.

Can I have a normal delivery after a caesarean?

Sometimes, yes. It depends on the reason for your earlier caesarean, your scar and your current pregnancy. Dr. Jayanthi Prabakaran will assess you and explain whether it is a safe option for you. Read more.

Related care

Book a consultation with Dr. Jayanthi Prabakaran

Message us on WhatsApp, call, or walk in during clinic hours. Emergency care is available 24/7.

WhatsApp us Call 97505 11225