From childbirth know-how to answering all your questions, "I Sarang" guides you through every step of your journey
A Cesarean section (C-section) is a surgical method of delivering a baby by making an incision in the abdomen and uterus when it is determined that normal childbirth is impossible. There are two types of C-sections: planned (elective) and emergency, which is performed when normal childbirth is attempted but surgery is unavoidable.
Reasons for the increase in C-sections in the Republic of Korea include increased maternal age, an increase in obese women, a decrease in multiparous women, and an increase in multiple pregnancies such as twins.
The surgery is performed under spinal anesthesia or general anesthesia, and fasting for at least 8 hours is required to prevent food from being aspirated into the airway during anesthesia or surgery.
The surgical area is widely sterilized and shaved to prevent infection. A catheter is placed to prevent damage to the bladder (which is located in front of the uterus) during surgery. An IV will be placed to deliver medicine and fluids if an emergency occurs.
If general anesthesia is administered, you need to take deep breaths and cough vigorously while keeping the head of the bed tilted to prevent pulmonary complications. You will begin walking exercises the day after surgery. However, you may feel dizzy or fall when you first walk, so be sure to exercise with a guardian. The timing and intensity of exercise should be guided by your doctor.
Guide to Cesarean Section (Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology)
VBAC refers to a mother who previously gave birth by C-section who gives birth to a baby through vaginal birth. In the past, patients who had a C-section had a high risk of uterine rupture during labor and delivery, so they often had to have repeat C-sections for subsequent deliveries. However, recently, with the advancement of C-section techniques, the probability of this risk occurring has decreased, and some patients are choosing VBAC instead.
The success rate of vaginal delivery after a cesarean section is 60-80%. The success rate is highest if the mother had a vaginal delivery in the past, and the success rate is lower if the mother has had a C-section in the past due to failure to progress. VBAC is not attempted in cases of large fetuses, twin pregnancies, or fetus malpresentation. In addition, if the mother had a C-section too recently, had a vertical incision in the uterus in the past, or several C-sections before, C-sections cannot be attempted due to a higher risk of uterine rupture.
It is important to make decisions through sufficient consultation with your OBGYN.
The C-section wound runs horizontally across the lower abdomen, and the incision site may be sore and uncomfortable for several weeks. It is recommended to move slowly and carefully. Taking pain relievers for the first few days can help relieve the pain.