Risks of C-Section Births

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

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.