Are there different types of caesarean sections?
The purpose of the cesarean section is none other than to extract the fetus from the only one through the abdominal area.
Not all pregnancies are the same and neither are all births. On some occasions, these cannot be carried out “naturally” due to the possibility of a medical complication that endangers the life of the baby or the mother, and the intervention of medical professionals is necessary.
Specifically, when delivery cannot occur through the canal, a surgical procedure called cesarean section is performed . Next we will tell you a little about it and the different types.
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THE ORIGIN OF CESAREAN SECTION
The purpose of the operation is to extract the fetus from the only one through the abdominal area . Although it may seem like a recent procedure, it is one of the most practiced operations in ancient times.
Already in ancient Rome we find references to the practice of caesarean section when the mother died with the intention of saving the baby . The first data on survival after cesarean section was found in Switzerland in the year 1500.
It was not until the end of the 19th century when they were able to significantly reduce the mortality from the operation. The acceptance of aseptic or disinfectant measures, the invention of the uterine suture in 1882, antibiotics , advances in anesthesia and the possibility of carrying out blood transfusions were fundamental.
As an anecdote, there are even two documented cases of women who have performed caesarean sections on themselves.
WHEN IS CESAREAN SECTION INDICATED?
Currently, between 10 and 20% of all pregnancies end in caesarean sections. These high prevalence rates have raised questions about whether more caesarean sections are being performed than necessary . That is to say, that the delivery is decided in this way for non-medical reasons such as economic ones.
The main causes for performing caesarean sections are:
- That there is a disproportion between the fetal size and the pelvic canal
- Abnormal positions of the fetus at the time of delivery, for example, that is sitting instead of having the head oriented to the expulsive canal.
- Problems with the placenta : whether it is total, marginal or bleeding occlusive.
- Any loss of fetal well-being during labor: alterations in heart rhythm, irrigation …
- Maternal diseases that prevent vaginal delivery. For example, a structural alteration that obstructs the canal or serious hypertensive problems.
- Other indications depend on the protocols established in the different hospitals or health systems.
CLASSIFICATION OF CAESAREAN SECTIONS
According to the procedure used, we can classify caesarean sections into:
- Classic or vertical incision caesarean section: a longitudinal section is made in the midline below the navel at the level of the uterus. It allows more space for the part but since the end of the 19th century it is rarely used. A greater impact implies greater susceptibility to multiple complications .
- Cesarean section of the lower or horizontal segment : it is the most common today. In this case, a transverse incision is made just above the edge of the bladder. Less blood is lost and repair is easier.
- Transverse caesarean section : as in the case of the first option, it allows a large space for the extraction of the fetus. However, it is also not used frequently because a large opening can lead to too many problems.
- Caesarean section hysterectomy : consists of the removal of the uterus after the baby is delivered. It is done in emergencies such as when the bleeding is not treatable or when the placenta does not separate from the uterus.
- Extraperitoneal Cesarean Section : This is an outdated but popular procedure in the 20th century because it was believed to reduce infections and other later complications. Medical research showed that this was not the case and now its use is totally exceptional. It consists of accessing the fetus through an area other than the one directly over the uterus
Depending on when it is decided to carry it out, we find:
- Intrapartum or urgent cesarean section : as its name indicates, it is the procedure that is carried out once the labor has started because it is verified that a vaginal delivery is not possible. The expulsion process begins naturally but during it the health of the mother and her baby are compromised .
- Elective or elective caesarean section : The decision is made to carry out the surgical operation before the spontaneous onset of labor. The reasons can be fetal, maternal, or both. The choice, as we have already hinted, should not be made for other reasons, since a cesarean section is still a surgical intervention and as such implies its risks.
RECOVERY AFTER CESAREAN SECTION
As after other surgical interventions are very important care . Among them:
- The use of analgesics and other drugs prescribed by our doctor.
- In the event that the patient requires it, the decision can be made to treat the possible appearance of thrombi .
- Take special care with hygiene and wound care.
- Maintain several days of rest to promote improvement.
Dr. Tabriella Perivolaris, Sara's mother and fan of fashion, beauty, motherhood, among others, about the female universe. Since 2018 she has been working as a copywriter, always bringing to her articles a little of her experience and experience as a mother and woman.