CPD, or cephalopelvic disproportion, refers to a situation where the baby’s head or body is either too large or too small to safely pass through the mother’s pelvis, or the mother’s pelvis is too small for a normal-sized baby delivery.
While a vaginal birth after a previous Cesarean is possible for some women, it may not be a feasible option for all and could become an emergency situation. Certain conditions necessitate a C-Section.
1. Aberrant Presentation in Multiple Pregnancies:
- When there is an abnormal presentation, especially in pregnancies involving multiples, a C-Section is often required.
2. Placenta Previa:
- If the placenta is positioned too low in the uterine wall, hindering the baby’s passage through the cervix, a C-Section is necessary.
3. Transverse Lie:
- When the baby is positioned horizontally or sideways in the uterus (transverse lie), a Caesarean delivery is the standard approach.
4. Breech Presentation:
- If the baby is positioned feet or bottom first (breech presentation), a scheduled C-Section is typically performed.
Unscheduled Caesarean deliveries may become necessary if certain conditions emerge during labor, such as:
1. Failure of Labor Progression:
- If the cervix stops dilating or the baby fails to move down the birth canal.
2. Umbilical Cord Complications:
- Cord coiling around the baby’s neck or body, cord wedging between the baby’s head and the mother’s pelvis, or umbilical cord prolapse.
3. Placental Issues:
- Abruptio placenta, where the placenta separates from the uterine wall before the baby is born.
4. Fetal Distress:
- If the baby experiences difficulties leading to an erratic heart rate during birth.
Dangers of Caesarean Section:
While a Caesarean section is a common procedure, it carries inherent risks, including:
1. Infection:
- The risk of infection at the incision site or within the pelvic region
2. Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH):
- Excessive bleeding after the delivery.
3. Embolism:
- Complications, such as blood clots breaking off and entering the bloodstream.
4. Injuries to Organs:
- Possible injuries to the intestines or bladder during the surgical process.
5. Uterine Wall Weakening:
- The uterine wall may weaken due to the incision.
6. Placental Abnormalities in Later Pregnancies:
- Increased risks of placental issues in subsequent pregnancies.
7. Dangers of General Anesthesia:
- Risks associated with the use of general anesthesia during the procedure..
8. Injury to the Fetus:
- While rare, there is a potential risk of injury to the fetus during the C-section
It’s important to note that while these risks exist, Caesarean sections are often necessary and conducted safely by healthcare professionals after considering the specific circumstances and medical indications.