1. Why a caesarean is being advised
A caesarean is being advised because of an immediate threat to the life of you or your baby, this is usually because:
Your baby's heart rate has dropped dangerously low - There are no signs of it getting or staying higher. This means your baby is not getting enough oxygen.
A cord prolapse has occurred - The umbilical cord has dropped from your womb into your vagina which could be stopping the blood supply to your baby.
There is problem with your placenta - You have significant bleeding because your placenta has separated before your baby is born or your placenta is covering the neck of your womb (cervix).
There is a tear in your womb (uterine rupture) - We suspect a tear in your womb which means your baby cannot get enough oxygen and you are at risk of serious bleeding.
2. Any risks to the baby
A baby doctor will be in the room to assess your baby at birth.
There is a chance of accidental injury to your baby e.g. cut to skin.
Your baby may need help breathing.
Your baby may need to go to the neonatal unit for specialist care.
3. Significant complications during the operation
There is an increased chance of bleeding, infection, and injury to bladder/bowel and blood vessels for you.
4. Emergency measures that may become necessary during the procedure
If there are any known injuries to your bowel, bladder, or blood vessels these will be repaired during the surgery.
We also may need to take additional steps to deliver your baby, e.g. forceps/vaginal examination.
If you experience excessive bleeding we need to stop it. If we cannot, we may need to perform a hysterectomy.
5. Anaesthetic options
A spinal anaesthetic - a small needle in your back will be offered where possible
A general anaesthetic may be needed
If you have an effective epidural in place it may be possible to use this.
Your anaesthetist will advise/decide.
