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Ask An Expert

Risks of C-Section Births

Robert Altman

Robert Altman, M.D.

Palo Alto Medical Foundation

Question:

Do C-section births have increased risks for me and my baby?

Answer:

Although a Caesarean (C-section) birth is sometimes the best option for the health of mother and baby, there can be additional risks associated with this major surgical procedure. Any major surgery carries the risk of blood loss, the possibility of infection, and reactions to anesthesia. Also, recovery from a C-section generally takes longer than a vaginal birth and the new mother will be experiencing discomfort as the surgical incision heals.

Specific risks for the mother may include:
  • Pain following surgery and during recovery
  • Infection of the incision site, the urinary tract, the uterus, and the bloodstream
  • Blood clots in the pelvic and leg veins
  • Hemorrhage - the average blood loss during a C-section is twice that of a vaginal birth
  • Injury to the bladder, uterus, ovaries or intestines
  • Scar tissue formation
  • Adverse reaction to the anesthesia used
  • Complications with future pregnancies including placenta previa, placenta accreta and/or the need for additional cesarean sections
  • In some cases, the need to remove the uterus
For the baby, risks may include:
  • Breathing issues, including tachypnea, where a baby breathes abnormally fast the first days following birth
  • Laceration to the baby's scalp
As with all medical procedures, there is a risk-to-benefit ratio. There is no doubt that for some deliveries that involve other risks to mother and baby, a C-section birth is the healthiest option available.

Related Questions

Question
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    Are there ways that I can help avoid a C-section delivery?
  • Vaginal Birth vs C-Section
    I am afraid of having a vaginal birth. Can I request a C-section delivery?
  • Bonding with Baby After C-Section
    After a C-section birth, how long will I have to wait before I can bond with my child (breastfeeding, skin-on-skin contact, holding my baby)?
  • Recovery from a C-Section
    Does recovery time after a C-section differ from a vaginal birth?
  • Vaginal Birth After a C-Section?
    If I have a C-section with my first pregnancy, does that mean I will have to have one for any future pregnancies?

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