Everything You Need To Know About C-Sections
During pregnancy, many women plan for and expect a vaginal delivery, but in some instances, a vaginal delivery is not possible. According to Los Angeles OB/GYN Dr. David Ghozland, one out of three pregnant women may find themselves in need of a cesarean (C-Section) delivery. Dr. Ghozland is skilled in both C-section childbirth procedures and C-section scar removal in his Los Angeles practice.
There are many reasons why your doctor may recommend a C-section delivery. The most common reasons include:
• Medical complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure, genital herpes or other infections.
• The size or position of the baby. A breech position baby will need to be delivered via C-section, as will a baby too large to pass through the birth canal.
• Obesity. If you are significantly overweight at the time of delivery it could put your health and the health of your baby at risk during a vaginal birth.
• Advanced age. Because birthing complications increase with age, your doctor may recommend a C-section.
• Carrying more than one baby. If you are carrying multiples, there’s a high likelihood a C-section delivery will be the safest choice.
Types of C-Section Procedures
Depending on whether you have a planned for emergency C-section, you will either be awake or fully sedated during the procedure. The physician will perform the procedure using a small incision, typically very close to the hairline above your pubic area. Then, depending on your situation and the position of the baby, the doctor will use either a low-transverse incision across the lower part of the uterus, or a vertical cut incision that travels down the center of the uterus.
Once your baby is born, your doctor will proceed to stitch the incisions closed while monitoring your vitals. Recovery time from a traditional C-section is a bit longer than vaginal delivery, and most women spend a few days in the hospital prior to going home with their new baby. From there, full recovery may take up to six weeks.
The aftermath of a C-section procedure includes concerns about any visible scarring. While most C-section scars are minimal, if the scar makes you feel self-conscious, treatment options are available. Dr. Ghozland says a fractional CO2 pixel laser can dramatically reduce the appearance of embarrassing C-section scars and restore confidence and self-esteem. The CO2 pixel laser also helps minimize irritation that sometimes occurs with a raised C-section scar. In his Los Angeles practice, Dr. Ghozland uses laser treatments to help reduce the appearance of C-section scarring, and his patients report there is minimal discomfort and no downtime.
Planning for the birth of a child is a magical time. As anyone who has been pregnant can tell you, each pregnancy and birth is unique, and sometimes circumstances may require birthing intervention such as a C-section procedure. Discuss all of your options with your doctor, including possible scar revision/removal following a cesarean birth.