I still remember the time
that I went to Operation Theater to deliver my first baby every time I look at
her. The doctors decided that a cesarean section should be done urgently
due to intrauterine growth
restriction (IUGR). I have given birth on January 25, 2012 at 33 weeks.
Ventilator has been ready for my baby in case of emergency. After given birth,
my baby need to place at incubator. She went there for 24 days. All these things
make me keep it as unforgettable journey of my life. Now, let’s see more about
cesarean.
What is a Cesarean Section?
A cesarean section is a surgical procedure in which incisions are made
through a woman's abdomen and uterus to deliver her baby.
The Purposes
Cesarean sections, also called c-sections, are performed whenever
abnormal conditions complicate labour and vaginal delivery, threatening the life
or health of the mother or the baby. The procedure is often used in cases where
the mother has had a previous c-section. Dystocia, or difficult labour, is the
other common cause of c-sections.
Difficult labour is commonly caused by one of the three following
conditions: abnormalities in the mother's birth canal; abnormalities in the
position of the fetus; or abnormalities in the labour, including weak or
infrequent contractions.
Another major factor is fetal distress, a condition where the fetus is
not getting enough oxygen. Fetal brain damage can result from oxygen
deprivation. Fetal distress is often related to abnormalities in the position
of the fetus or abnormalities in the birth canal, causing reduced blood flow
through the placenta. Other conditions also can make c-section advisable, such
as vaginal herpes, hypertension, and diabetes in the mother.
My lovely baby
In my case, I have no choice unless through cesarean section. Conversely,
in this new millennium, women do have an alternative that has been provided by
the wonders of modern technology. Women today have choice that something women
in ages past did not have. Let’s we see the reasons of women to choose deliver
their baby through cesarean section.
Why do some
women consider cesarean delivery more advantageous and more in keeping with the
21st century?
- A cesarean is a modern way to have a baby, involving the use of technology. Modern technology features highly in our daily lives. We are at ease with it and find it reassuring. The latest and most up-to-date technological equipment is much prized and sought after in all areas of our lives.
- A cesarean is a medical operation. Birth is currently seen as a medical event as it usually takes place in hospital. Is a cesarean operation not therefore a logical conclusion to pregnancy for women of this millennium?
- A cesarean can be scheduled. Few of us can get through a day in our modern world without a watch and a diary. Our daily lives are ruled by time and by carefully planned appointments. Choosing the date of the baby’s birthday has considerable appeal in this context for some women. We have become accustomed to leading our daily lives in a way that pays little heed to the natural flow of events. For example, modern technology allows us, in many respects, to disregard the divisions of night and day or the seasons of the year.
- A cesarean is quick in comparison to most labours. We live in an age when the quicker something can be achieved the more advantageous it is perceived to be – whether this is making a cup of instant coffee, washing the laundry, travelling from a to b, or sending a communication. In our society time is money.
- A is perceived as pain-free. The operation is carried out under anaesthetic and therefore there are no pains of labour to be endured. The “wake me up when it’s all over” scenario appeals to many women.
- A cesarean avoids the need for a baby to make the journey through the birth canal. Many women worry about how something as large as a baby could possibly fit through such a small opening. Some women fear the baby may be ‘squashed’ and damaged in the process.
- A cesarean is clean. The antiseptic nature of the operating theatre is very different from the physical exertion of labour. No sweat and tears. The mess of amniotic fluid and blood is dealt with out of sight. Urine is catheterised. There are no lumps of poo emerging from the rectum, pushed out by the baby’s head as it journey’s down the vagina. Is this not more in keeping with our aseptic society?
- A cesarean is clinical – and therein perhaps lies its biggest attraction. Planned cesarean birth avoids the necessity for the many probings of the vagina, which have become routine during what is termed ‘normal’ birth today. A woman can more easily maintain a degree of professionalism and detachment in her relationship with her carers since the private areas of her body are left unmolested and unsullied.
There are many very good reasons for having a cesarean section and with a
little forethought and planning the operation can indeed be a wonderful
experience. There is also no denying that a positive cesarean section is
infinitely preferable to a traumatic vaginal delivery.
Nevertheless, what too many have lost sight of, is that even the best cesarean
can never hold a candle to a good experience of giving birth to your baby
yourself.
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