When it comes to giving birth, your doctor will likely try and keep things as procedure-free as possible for you. Since a C-section is, after all, a surgery, most doctors try to avoid. However, there are occasions when C-sections are preferred, and even necessary. In fact, there are some early signs you may need a C-section that your doctor may be on the lookout for, even during the early stages of your pregnancy.
Though some women end up having C-sections after labor has already started, others schedule a C-section in advance. Both cases mean that your doctor has assessed the options for delivery and decided that the C-section is the best and safest option for both mom and baby, in order to avoid any complications that might occur during a vaginal birth. Once labor has begun, the ideal delivery is vaginal, which is why the following early signs you may need a C-section are important to not only pay attention to, but discuss with your doctor. C-sections are considered a major abdominal surgery, and often pose a longer recovery time than vaginal deliveries do. But if you fall under any of the following categories, you and your doctor can determine the proper birthing plan to suit both you and your baby.
1You've Had A Previous C-Section
If you've had a previous C-section or other surgeries on your womb, there's a good chance you'll be having another C-section. Though Parents noted that it's possible for women who have had C-sections to safely undergo a vaginal birth, nearly 80 percent of scheduled C-sections are repeats. Once you've delivered one baby by C-section, you'll be offered the option for every pregnancy after.
2You're Having Problems With The Placenta
If you're diagnosed with a placenta previa during your third trimester, chances are high that you'll be having a C-section. According to WebMD, a placenta previa is when the placenta lies low in your uterus and blocks the cervix. This can lead to dangerous bleeding during vaginal birth. If a complete or even a partial placenta previa has been detected by your doctor, a C-section is usually necessary.
3You Have An Infection
If you have a sexually transmitted infection like HIV or herpes, your doctor will likely recommend a C-section, as both infections can be transmitted to the fetus during vaginal delivery, according to WebMD.
4You're Having Multiples
WebMD noted that women expecting more than one baby may need a C-section. If you're having twins (or triplets, or more) who are sharing one amniotic sac or are poorly positioned, your doctor will probably recommend a C-section for the safety of both you and your babies.
5You Have A Health Condition
If you have a preexisting condition that could be made worse by the stress that labor induces, your doctor may suggest a C-section delivery for your baby. Depending on your doctor's assessment, Parents reported that some women with heart conditions may still be able to give birth vaginally. According to Healthline, however, diabetes poses a different risk for expecting mothers, as women with diabetes can experience an impairment of uterine contractibility. In other words, you could push all day and get nowhere.
6Your Baby Is In The Wrong Position
If your baby is in a breech position and has been for some time, your doctor may choose to deliver the child via a C-section, according to the American Pregnancy Association (APA). In fact, the APA noted that a C-section is sometimes the only option for breech position babies who won't budge.
7Your Baby Has Been Diagnosed With A Birth Defect
If your baby has been diagnosed with a birth defect in the womb, your doctor may schedule a C-section in an attempt to reduce any further complications during your delivery, according to the APA.
