Possible problems with C-section

C-section is abdominal surgery.

A longer hospital stay is needed to recover from the surgery. The risks from repeat surgery increase with each C-section.

Women who have a repeat Cesarean birth are more likely to have:

1. Pain After Surgery
   1. A Cesarean birth is major surgery where several layers of body tissue are cut and then repaired. There will be some pain from the cut and stitches. This pain can be managed well by medicines.

1. Bleeding
   1. Bleeding can occur with any birth. During a Cesarean tissue and muscle is cut to reach the baby which can result in bleeding. This bleeding (also called hemorrhage) can be severe and in some cases a blood transfusion may be needed. You may wish to discuss this with your doctor or midwife if you need more information about blood transfusion.

1. Difficulty With Breastfeeding And Early Bonding With Baby
   1. Cesareans have been shown to have an effect on the normal process of breastfeeding. It can take longer for the mom’s milk supply to come in. This may lead to breastfeeding problems.
   2. If you stay awake during your Cesarean you should be able to have early physical contact with your baby skin to skin in the operating room. This will help you to bond with the baby.

1. Scar Tissue Or Adhesions
   1. There may be scar tissue inside the abdominal cavity. This  scar tissue can cause ongoing pain for weeks or months after surgery. This may also make future Cesareans or other abdominal surgeries more difficult.

1. Infection Of The Wound And Bladder
   1. In a small number of cases, the Cesarean wound (where the cut was made) and/or the bladder may become infected. This can be treated with antibiotics. If the infection is severe you may need to stay longer in the hospital.

1. Fever
   1. A high temperature can occur after surgery. This could be caused by an infection, or by other things related to the surgery.

1. Anesthesia Problems
   1. As with all surgery there is a risk of complications related to the anesthesia.
   2. Epidural or spinal anesthesia can result in low blood pressure, back pain, headache and itching. In rare cases an allergic reaction to the medicine or breathing problems can occur.
   3. General anesthesia can result in nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and short-term memory loss. In rare cases an allergic reaction to the medicine or breathing problems can occur.

1. Blood Clots
   1. A blood clot may form after the surgery and block blood vessels. If the blood clot is in the lungs it is extremely serious and a medical emergency. This is called pulmonary embolus. The risk of developing a clot is increased with all pregnancies but the risk is higher with a Cesarean.

1. Hysterectomy
   1. This is a complication that can happen with any birth. The chance of hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) during a planned Cesarean is about the same as your chance of hysterectomy during a planned VBAC.