Delivering a baby through C-section is comparatively safe, yet it can give rise to numerous medical complications. The most common among them is infection at the surgical site.
The surgical procedure wherein incisions are made through an expectant woman’s abdomen and uterus to take out one or more babies is known as cesarean section or C-section. It is usually considered when the normal delivery is unsafe for the life of the mother or her baby. Giving birth to a child through surgery involves numerous health risks. It makes a mother’s body quite susceptible to infection. In case you have undergone or are about to undergo a cesarean surgery, you would be interested in knowing about the possible medical complications associated with it.
Health Risks
One of the health risks of a C-section is the development of unwanted scar tissue at the site of surgery. The early symptom that indicates the possibility of such a complication is pain felt around the surgical site. It is necessary to visit a doctor as early as possible to restore the surgery site. It should be treated well on time, or the patient may have to bear the pain in her abdominal region for many years.
Infection at and around the site of the surgery is another possible health risk. The symptoms for such conditions are redness in the area, pain, discharge from the surgical site, etc. All these symptoms are alarming and can lead to various complications. The mother needs to seek medical intervention immediately. Many times, the infected tissue needs to be removed for complete cure.
Causes of Infections
The stitched area of surgery is generally tender to touch. If extreme tenderness is felt, you may be suffering from an infection. There are many other symptoms and signs which can be observed. The one that is quite prominent among them is abnormal discharge. The second major symptom of infection after a C-section is rise in the temperature of the body. You need to seek medical assistance if the body temperature remains high for 4-5 hours.
In majority of the cases, the causative agents of the infection enter your body during labor. You may notice the symptoms only a few days after childbirth. The infection can occur on the endometrium, breasts, urinary tract, and the wound incurred during the surgery. You are more vulnerable if you have delivered your baby by a C-section. The risk of infection is high especially in the area of the endometrium, which is called endometritis.
The procedure of a C-section involves lesser risks and more comfort in comparison to normal delivery. This is the reason why many women prefer it during pregnancy. However, it’s clear from the information present in this article that not everything is positive about this method of childbirth. It may give rise to complications that can be life-threatening. Discuss and clear all your doubts with an obstetrician or a gynecologist prior to undergoing a C-section. Here’s wishing you a safe delivery.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.