What week is a repeat caesarean section performed? Repeated surgical births

Despite the warnings of gynecologists, many women decide to have a third pregnancy, having had two caesarean sections behind them. Is it possible to do the third C-section after 2 caesarean sections and what dangers can this manipulation entail?

Pregnancy after the second cesarean section: when is it prohibited?

After the second cesarean section, most doctors insist on tubal ligation - sterilization. This manifestation of concern for a woman’s health is not accidental - not everyone manages to endure a third pregnancy without complications after two surgical births. Problems can begin from the first weeks. To minimize them, pregnancy should be planned together with your doctor.

Why are obstetricians-gynecologists so worried when we're talking about about the third pregnancy after 2 surgical births? There are several reasons for this.

Firstly, a previous cesarean, like any abdominal surgery, can lead to the formation.

Adhesions are strands of connective tissue that can change position internal organs, tighten the fallopian tubes and thereby narrow their lumen. Pelvic pain in those who have undergone surgery is indirect indicator development of the adhesive process. In such a situation, even getting pregnant becomes problematic.

Secondly, a common consequence Caesarean section becomes genital, which reduces the chances of becoming a mother. But even if pregnancy takes place, there is a risk of spontaneous miscarriage. The likelihood of a tragic outcome is especially high in early stages, but also for more later There is a risk of miscarriage.

Thirdly, a scar on the uterus can become an obstacle to the normal attachment of the placenta. In search suitable place the placenta can migrate along the wall of the uterus. Another related complication is villi ingrowth, which leads to.

Disorders of placental attachment can lead to chronic fetoplacental insufficiency and fetal hypoxia, which is dangerous due to intrauterine growth retardation.

The most dangerous complication is uterine rupture - acute developing condition which is accompanied by massive bleeding. Often the child does not survive after this; all the doctors’ efforts are aimed at saving the mother’s life.

When the uterus ruptures, disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome develops: first it develops increased coagulability blood, then a transitional state occurs in which blood clots alternate with the liquid part, after which hypocoagulation develops and heavy bleeding which is almost impossible to stop.

Before getting pregnant for the third time, you need to weigh the pros and cons. The combination of a third pregnancy - a third cesarean section with signs of incompetent scar on the uterus is absolutely contraindicated. These include:

  1. Presence of cavities according to ultrasound results.
  2. Thickness 1.5-2.5 mm.
  3. Swelling in the scar area.

The list of other contraindications corresponds to those when planning any pregnancy. Mainly:

  • chronic diseases of internal organs high degree heaviness;
  • diseases in the stage of decompensation;
  • autoimmune diseases;
  • infectious diseases in the acute stage.


What is the danger of a third cesarean section?

Any operation carries with it hidden threat. This also applies to cases where a third caesarean section is performed.

Doctors' concerns about the progress and results of the operation are related to the following:

  • adhesions from previous interventions increase the risk of injury to the intestines or bladder;
  • true placenta accreta is possible - in this case, the operation is completed by removing the uterus without appendages.

Despite the danger of a caesarean section, about childbirth naturally You shouldn't even think about it. The presence of two or more scars on the uterus is absolute indication for surgery.


Features of the third cesarean section and possible complications

How is the third caesarean performed? In general, the procedure is the same as in the previous ones. However, there are some features:

  • The operation is performed within the existing scar on the uterus.
  • During manipulation, control of hemostasis is very important to prevent the development of bleeding from the vessels of the uterus or abdominal cavity.
  • A uterus with a scar contracts worse, so hypotonic bleeding is prevented - intravenous administration oxytocin.

At what week of pregnancy is the third cesarean section performed? It depends on the condition of the mother and child. By medical standards You can give birth as early as 38 weeks. In some maternity hospitals, they prefer to perform a subsequent cesarean section at the same time as the previous one.

According to vital indications, the operation is performed at any time.

After surgical intervention Various complications may arise:

  • bleeding in the postoperative period;
  • intestinal hypotension;
  • purulent-septic infection;
  • thrombotic complications;
  • subinvolution of the uterus;
  • scar failure;
  • anemia.

When to plan a pregnancy after 2 caesarean sections?

If a woman is planning children, then a third pregnancy a year after a cesarean section is not the most suitable option. It is recommended to wait 2-3 years, undergo a thorough examination and only then decide on the next birth.

However, if pregnancy occurs within a year after the second cesarean section, abortion is not considered in a safe way solutions to the problem! In this case, it is necessary to examine the condition of the uterine scar using ultrasound and visit an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Any intervention in the uterine cavity can lead to serious consequences and worsen the prognosis for pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to choose the most suitable method of contraception for yourself after childbirth.

Yulia Shevchenko, obstetrician-gynecologist, especially for the site

Useful video

Each pregnancy in a woman proceeds in a new way, different from the previous one. Childbirth, accordingly, also goes differently. If the baby was born for the first time with the help of gynecological surgeons, this does not mean that now everything will happen according to the same scenario. What to do if you have a second caesarean section? What is important for a woman to know? Is it possible to avoid surgery? Today's article will answer these and some other questions. You will learn about the period at which a planned second caesarean section is performed, how the body recovers after manipulation, whether it is possible to plan a third pregnancy and whether it is actually possible to give birth on your own.

Natural birth and caesarean section

Let's find out how a second caesarean section is performed and what indications it has. What is important to know? The natural birth of a child is a process intended by nature. During childbirth, the baby goes through the appropriate paths, experiences stress and prepares for existence in the new world.

Caesarean section involves the artificial birth of a child. Surgeons make an incision in the woman’s abdomen and uterus, through which they remove the baby. The baby appears abruptly and unexpectedly, he does not have time to adapt. Let us note that the development of such children is more difficult and complex than those born during natural childbirth.

During pregnancy, many expectant mothers are afraid of the cesarean section procedure. After all, preference has always been given to natural childbirth. A few centuries ago, a woman had no chance of survival after a Caesarean section. At an earlier time, manipulation was carried out only in patients who had already died. Now medicine has made a big breakthrough. Caesarean section has become not only a safe intervention, but in some cases necessary to save the life of the child and mother. Now the operation lasts only a few minutes, and the capabilities of anesthesia allow the patient to remain conscious.

Second caesarean section: what is important to know about the indications?

What does the doctor pay attention to when choosing this route of delivery? What are the indications for a second intervention in the natural process? Everything is simple here. The indications for the second cesarean section are the same as for the first operation. The manipulation can be planned or emergency. When prescribing a planned caesarean section, doctors rely on the following indications:

  • poor vision in a woman;
  • varicose veins of the lower extremities;
  • heart failure;
  • chronic diseases;
  • diabetes;
  • asthma and hypertension;
  • oncology;
  • traumatic brain injury;
  • narrow pelvis and large fetus.

All these situations are a reason for the first intervention. If after the birth of the child (the first) the diseases have not been eliminated, then the operation will be performed during the second pregnancy. Some doctors are inclined to this opinion: the first cesarean section does not allow the woman to give birth again on her own. This statement is wrong.

Is it possible to give birth on your own?

So, you are recommended for a second cesarean section. What is important to know about him? Which ones are there? real readings to perform an operation if everything is in order with the woman’s health? Repeated manipulation is recommended in the following cases:

  • the child has ;
  • less than two years have passed since the first caesarean section;
  • the suture on the uterus is incompetent;
  • During the first operation, a longitudinal incision was made;
  • abortions between pregnancies;
  • the presence of connective tissue in the scar area;
  • location of the placenta on the scar;
  • pregnancy pathologies (polyhydramnios, oligohydramnios).

Emergency surgery is performed in case of unexpected divergence of the scar, weak labor activity, in serious condition women and so on.

You can give birth yourself if a second caesarean section is recommended. What is important to know? Modern medicine not only allows a woman the natural process of childbirth, but also welcomes it. It is important that the expectant mother is thoroughly examined. The conditions for natural childbirth after cesarean section are the following circumstances:

  • More than three years have passed since the first operation;
  • the scar is wealthy (predominantly muscle, the area stretches and contracts);
  • thickness in the seam area is more than 2 mm;
  • no complications during pregnancy;
  • a woman's desire to give birth on her own.

If you want your second child to appear naturally, then you should take care of this in advance. Find maternity hospital, who specializes in this issue. Discuss your condition with your doctor in advance and get examined. Attend your appointments regularly and follow your gynecologist's recommendations.

Pregnancy management

If the first birth took place via cesarean section, then the second time everything can be exactly the same or completely different. To expectant mothers after similar procedure it should be individual approach. As soon as you find out about your new situation, you need to contact a gynecologist. Features of managing such a pregnancy are additional research. For example, in such cases, ultrasound is done not three times during the entire period, but more. Diagnosis before childbirth is becoming more frequent. The doctor needs to monitor your condition. After all, the entire outcome of the pregnancy depends on this indicator.

Be sure to visit other specialists before delivery. You need to see a therapist, ophthalmologist, cardiologist, neurologist. Make sure there are no restrictions on natural childbirth.

Multiple and regular caesarean section

So, you are still scheduled for a second cesarean section. At what time is such an operation performed, and is it possible to give birth on your own? multiple pregnancy?

Let's assume that the previous delivery was carried out surgically, and after that the woman became pregnant with twins. What are the forecasts? In most cases, the outcome will be a second cesarean section. The doctor will tell you at what time it is done. In each case, the individual characteristics of the patient are taken into account. The manipulation is prescribed for the period from 34 to 37 weeks. In case of multiple pregnancy, do not wait longer, as rapid pregnancy may begin. natural childbirth.

So, you are pregnant with one child, and a second cesarean section is scheduled. When is the operation performed? The first manipulation plays a role in determining the deadline. Repeated intervention is scheduled 1-2 weeks earlier. If the first time a cesarean was performed at 39 weeks, now it will happen at 37-38.

The seam

You already know at what time a planned second caesarean section is performed. The cesarean section is repeated using the same suture as the first time. Many expectant mothers are very concerned about aesthetic issues. They worry that their entire stomach will be covered in scars. Don't worry, that won't happen. If the manipulation is planned, then the doctor will make an incision where it was made the first time. Your number of external scars will not increase.

The situation is different with the incision of the reproductive organ. Here at every reoperation a new area for the scar is selected. Therefore, doctors do not recommend giving birth using this method more than three times. For many patients, doctors offer sterilization if a second cesarean section is scheduled. When admitted to the hospital, gynecologists clarify this issue. If the patient wishes, dressing is performed fallopian tubes. Don’t worry, doctors will not carry out such a manipulation without your consent.

After surgery: recovery process

You already know when a second caesarean section is indicated and at what time it is done. Reviews from women report that recovery period practically no different from the one after the first operation. A woman can stand up on her own in about a day. A new mother is allowed to breastfeed her baby almost immediately (provided that no illegal drugs were used).

Discharge after the second operation is the same as during natural childbirth. Within one or two months, the discharge of lochia is observed. If you had a caesarean section, it is important to monitor your well-being. Consult a doctor if unusual discharge occurs, fever, or worsening general condition. Discharged from maternity hospital after the second cesarean section, approximately 5-10 days, the same as the first time.

Possible complications

With repeated surgery, the risk of complications certainly increases. But this does not mean that they will definitely arise. If you give birth on your own after a cesarean section, then there is a possibility of scar dehiscence. Even if the suture is strong, doctors cannot completely exclude this possibility. That is why in such cases artificial stimulation and painkillers are never used. This is important to know.

When performing a second cesarean section, the doctor faces difficulties. The first operation always has consequences in the form of an adhesive process. Thin films between organs make the surgeon's work difficult. The procedure itself takes longer. This could be dangerous for the child. After all, at this moment they penetrate into his body potent drugs, used for anesthesia.

The complication of a repeat cesarean can be the same as the first time: bad cut uterus, its bend, inflammatory process and so on.

Additionally

Some women are interested: if a second caesarean section is performed, when can they give birth for the third time? Experts cannot answer this question unambiguously. It all depends on the condition of the scar (in this case two). If the seam area is thinned and filled connective tissue, then pregnancy will be completely contraindicated. With sufficient scars, it is quite possible to give birth again. But, most likely, this will be the third caesarean section. The possibility of natural childbirth decreases with each subsequent operation.

Some women manage to give birth to five children by caesarean section and feel great. A lot depends on individual characteristics and surgical techniques. With a longitudinal incision, doctors do not recommend giving birth more than twice.

Finally

A caesarean section performed during the first pregnancy is not a reason for repeat procedure. If you want and can give birth on your own, then this is only a plus. Remember that natural childbirth is always a priority. Talk to your gynecologist about this topic and find out all the nuances. Best wishes!

Giving birth to a child is a function inherent in a woman by nature itself. However, sometimes you have to intervene in this process in the most persistent way, saving the health (and sometimes life!) of the mother and baby. One of these measures is a caesarean section, which, although used as an extreme necessity, is still not some kind of tragedy and does not put an end to reproductive system women.

Is a second caesarean section necessary for my next pregnancy?

Any surgery into such a complex system as human body, leaves a certain trace. Caesarean is not only not an exception, but rather even an eloquent example. And the point is not even a scar on the upper tissues and skin, but, mainly, a broken integrity of the uterus. Repeated pregnancy, in which stretching of the uterine walls naturally occurs, can lead to rupture of the suture and tragic consequences. Therefore, if you are planning a second birth after a cesarean section, then it is very advisable to schedule it at least two (or even three) years after this operation. During this period of time, the uterus should recover and strengthen its walls. If a very short period of time has passed after the operation, a second caesarean section is predetermined.

If you follow the basic rules, contrary to popular belief, a woman has a good chance of giving birth to a child naturally. That is, the inability to give birth independently during the previous pregnancy does not mean that the mother will certainly have to have a second cesarean section. The doctor makes a decision on the actual method of childbirth based on an analysis of many factors, and more and more specialists prefer natural childbirth whenever possible.

Indications for a second cesarean section

There really aren't that many serious reasons for doctors to prescribe a cesarean section for the second time, but none of them tolerates being treated lightly. The most common indications:

  • Diseases and conditions that pose a threat: diabetes, asthma, vision problems, hypertension ( high pressure), recent traumatic brain injury, cardiovascular and central nervous system, oncology;
  • Excessively narrow or deformed pelvis;
  • The outcome of the first cesarean section is, first of all, the condition of the suture and its location;
  • Features of the fetus itself - unfavorable position, large size, as well as multiple births;
  • Postmaturity, weak labor;
  • Abortions suffered after cesarean section;
  • A short break between pregnancies;
  • Mother's age after 30-35 years.

The right of final decision remains with the woman, but it should not be abused. Doctors are in no way interested in a threat to the patient’s life, and therefore try to resort to the safest option for the woman in labor.

Features of re-operation

A caesarean section for the second time is unlikely to bring any surprises to the pregnant woman, but there are still some differences. Repeated surgery usually takes longer because the incision is not made along a complete line. skin, and in a rougher area - along the old seam. Plus, a second cesarean section requires more caution due to increased risks. Therefore, the anesthesia will also be stronger.

Another feature of the second cesarean section is the period at which it is performed. Often, a difficult pregnancy is sought to be completed as early as possible to eliminate the risks that threaten the mother or her baby. The longer and stronger the uterine walls are stretched, the higher the likelihood of uterine rupture. However, if there are no obvious reasons for concern, then the operation is performed as planned, at 37-39 weeks or even later. Usually, a pregnant woman is offered to go to the maternity hospital a little early - for safekeeping.

Consequences of a second caesarean section

Recovery of the body will take a little longer than after the first cesarean section, the same applies to the suture. Repeated surgery can significantly harm a woman’s reproductive system. Violations are often observed menstrual cycle and even the impossibility of conceiving in the future, i.e. infertility. But some women manage to maintain their reproductive function, which, unfortunately, also poses a danger.

Pregnancy after a second cesarean section is associated with a number of serious risks to the health and life of the woman and the fetus. Therefore, doctors not only do not recommend that patients with such a history plan to have children again, but also suggest sterilization after a second cesarean section. Such concerns and the precautions associated with them, although justified, are still not mandatory. There are examples when mothers quite safely gave birth to both the third and fourth “Caesarean”. But in fairness, it is worth noting that not all women can boast of such truly good health. Risk is, of course, a noble cause, but preserving oneself for already born children is perhaps a higher mission.

Quite often, due to various factors, a woman cannot give birth naturally. That's when a caesarean section is used. If this is the second pregnancy after a previous cesarean section, then for the most part, delivery is carried out in the same way. Therefore, often women who have previously had a similar operation ask about the timing of the second caesarean section and what determines the time of its implementation.

What is the time frame for a repeat cesarean section?

Before determining at what time to perform a second cesarean section, doctors have to develop tactics for carrying out such an operation. To do this you need:

  1. Assess the scar on the uterine wall that remains after the first cesarean section. In cases where pregnancy occurred earlier than 3 years after the birth of the first child, then surgical intervention for repeated delivery is simply necessary.
  2. Check with the expectant mother whether there were any abortions or surgical interventions on the uterine cavity between the first cesarean and the second pregnancy. For example, curettage of the endometrium sharply worsens the condition of the uterine scar.
  3. Determine the number of fetuses in multiple pregnancies, as well as their location in the uterus and the type of presentation. As is known, overstretching occurs during multiple pregnancies. uterine wall, which also negatively affects the condition of the scar.
  4. Also, in cases where the placenta is attached to the uterus in the area of ​​the previous incision, surgery is the only way delivery, because high risk of uterine rupture.
  5. In cases where a transverse incision was performed during the first birth, the second birth should also be performed by caesarean section.

Taking into account all these factors, doctors decide on the time of cesarean section. If we talk about the timing of the second planned cesarean section, then, as a rule, this operation is scheduled 1-2 weeks earlier than the first time. In most cases, this is 38 weeks of pregnancy. It is by this time that a surfactant begins to be synthesized in the baby’s body, which helps to expand the lungs during the first breath.

What are the dangers associated with a repeat cesarean section?

When carrying out a repeated similar intervention, doctors have to take into account the fact that in most cases, after the first cesarean section in the woman’s body, this circumstance somewhat complicates the course of the operation and increases its duration, because access to the uterus can be blocked by adhesions formed between the pelvic organs.

In addition, sometimes when a second planned cesarean section is performed, bleeding in the uterus develops, which is difficult to stop. In cases where blood loss is great, doctors decide to remove the reproductive organ, to save a woman's life.

We must not forget that during a cesarean section the fetus itself is at great risk. Medications used for anesthesia have a certain effect on the baby, especially if for some reason the operation is delayed (incorrect presentation, the head is outside the pelvis, etc.).

Thus, we can say that determining at what time a woman will have a second planned cesarean section depends on many of the above factors. In this case, as a rule, the woman learns in advance about the date of this operation, because It also takes time to prepare for it.

Contrary to popular belief, if the first birth was surgical, the second cesarean repeat pregnancy Not prescribed to every woman. I, like any specialist, make a decision on surgical obstetric care only after carefully analyzing many factors.

A second (emergency or planned) caesarean section is prescribed if:

  • The patient has a history of diseases such as asthma or hypertension, and there are endocrine disorders.
  • The woman recently suffered a serious injury and has pathological disorders vision, problems with the heart or blood vessels, malignant tumors.
  • The expectant mother has a deformed or too narrow pelvis.
  • Previously, the woman had a longitudinal incision made; there is a risk of violating the integrity of the old suture; there are keloids scarring.
  • After the previous CS, the patient had an artificial one or had a miscarriage.
  • Pathologies were discovered: a large fetus or its incorrect presentation, postmaturity, poor labor.
  • The patient is expecting twins.
  • The mother’s age is 35+ or after the birth of her first child a very short period of time has passed – no more than 24 months.

If nothing from this list is found in the patient, I allow (and even insist) to give birth on her own.

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At what time is a second caesarean section performed?

Here you need to start from the reasons indicating the need for the operation. But in any case, in order to minimize risks, the deadlines are shifted. For example, if a woman in labor has too much big belly This means that the baby is large and significantly stretches the walls of the uterus. That is, the threat of seam rupture is quite high. In such cases, the operation is performed at 37–38 weeks.

The timing of the second caesarean section depends even on blood pressure women. If blood pressure is very high and is not controlled by medications, then surgery can take place as early as the 39th week. In any case, we try to schedule the birth for a date that is closer to 40-41 weeks, having discussed this issue in advance with the expectant mother.

In patients with a complicated pregnancy, contractions may begin as early as the 35th week. In such cases, for my part, I make every effort to help. to the expectant mother carry the baby at least until the 37th week. Of course, during this period, therapy is prescribed to stimulate maturation respiratory system fetus

Every second patient of mine is sure that if she has already undergone surgery once, then her second cesarean will go “like clockwork.” I should note that positive attitude and calmness in this case is already half the success. But such confidence must be supported by the actions of the expectant mother. Excessive negligence and frivolity can lead to disastrous consequences. If you already know that a CS is inevitable, start taking action.

During pregnancy

It is important to provide for absolutely everything that may be associated with a second cesarean section. Here are some recommendations I give to my patients:

  1. Sign up for special courses for expectant mothers who are about to have a CS.
  2. Be prepared for the fact that you may need to stay in the hospital for a long time before and after giving birth. Decide in advance where and with whom your eldest child will be all these days, so that you don’t have to worry about him later, which is extremely undesirable in your situation.
  3. Consider and discuss the option of partner birth with your spouse. If an epidural is administered and you remain awake, you may find it easier and more enjoyable to endure the entire process with a loved one nearby.
  4. Don't miss it under any circumstances routine examinations prescribed by a doctor.
  5. Don’t be afraid to ask your gynecologist all the questions that concern you (about when the second CS is being done, and why you are scheduled to give birth on this date, what tests you need to take, whether you have complications, why the doctor prescribed you certain medications, etc. .). This will give you the confidence and peace of mind you need.
  6. Purchase in advance the things you and your baby will need in the maternity hospital.

Be sure to find out what blood type your relatives have (this is especially important if you have a rare one). There are situations in which a woman in labor suffers large blood losses during surgery. The reason for this may be coagulopathy , preeclampsia, abnormal placental presentation, etc. In such cases, a donor may be urgently needed.

A few days before surgery

As a rule, in the last stages of pregnancy the patient is in the hospital. For at least two days prior to surgery, you must abstain from solid foods and foods that cause gas. 12 hours before birth, it is generally forbidden to drink or eat, since the anesthesia used during a CS can cause vomiting. And the most important thing, to the expectant mother be sure to get enough sleep. Keep in mind that recovery this time will be more difficult than after the birth of your first child, so good rest- a necessary measure.

Stages of the operation

Naturally, experienced mothers who are not giving birth for the first time with the help of surgeons already know how to perform a planned caesarean section. The operations are truly identical and follow the same scenario. Therefore, you should not expect surprises. So, let's look at how a second caesarean section is done step by step.

Preparing for surgery

Even if the caesarean section is for the second time, I still give detailed consultation to each patient. I answer all questions, talk about the advantages and disadvantages of surgical intervention, and possible complications.

Immediately before the birth itself, a nurse also helps the patient prepare for the operation, who:

  • Checks the basic indicators of a woman’s health: temperature, cardiac activity (pulse), blood pressure.
  • Gives an enema to empty the stomach and thus prevent regurgitation during the birth process.
  • Shaves pubic area to let the hair get into open wound, did not cause inflammation.
  • Installs a dropper with, the action of which is aimed at preventing infection, and with special composition preventing dehydration.
  • Enters into urethra woman in labor catheter.

Surgical stage

If the birth is performed surgically, it does not matter whether it is the first or the second, be prepared for the fact that there will be quite a lot of doctors in the operating room. As a rule, a “team” works in the delivery room, consisting of:

  • two surgeons;
  • anesthesiologist;
  • nurse anesthetist;
  • neonatologist;
  • two operating room nurses.

First of all, the anesthesiologist administers anesthesia - local or general. When the anesthesia takes effect, surgeons begin work - they perform a longitudinal or transverse incision (depending on the indications). After gaining access to the uterus, doctors use special equipment to suck out the amniotic fluid and remove the baby from the womb. After this, the child is taken by a neonatologist or nurse for initial care (cleaning the mouth and nose of mucus and fluid, Apgar measurements, examination and medical care, if required).

All these manipulations take no more than 10 minutes. After which the surgeon removes the placenta, checks the uterus and applies sutures. The stitching of the organs takes quite a long time – about an hour. After which the patient is administered medications that promote uterine contractions.

Dangers of a second caesarean section

The risks associated with a second cesarean section vary from person to person. Here everything depends both on the characteristics of the pregnancy and on the general health of the mother in labor. In a mother who gave birth again through surgical manipulations, the suture may become damaged or inflamed. Rarely, complications such as anemia and thrombophlebitis occur.

For a child, the consequences can also be different, ranging from circulatory disorders to hypoxia caused by prolonged exposure to anesthesia (since a repeat CS always lasts longer than the previous one).

But any complications are very easy to avoid if you properly prepare for the operation and follow all the recommendations of your doctor.

Second caesarean section: what is important to know

As I said above, any operation is individual, and childbirth cannot take place in the same way. But these differences should not cause anxiety and panic in the woman in labor. The main thing is to familiarize yourself with them and set yourself up correctly before the operation.

So, second cesarean section: what is important to know:

  1. How many weeks? Most often - at 37-39, but if there are indications for this, the doctor may insist on an earlier delivery.
  2. When are they sent to the hospital? If the pregnant woman and the fetus are absolutely healthy - a couple of days before the appointed date. But it’s better - in a week or two.
  3. What anesthesia is used? Both local and general, but the dose is stronger than for the first CS, since repeated births last longer.
  4. How is it cut? According to the old scar, so a new scar will not appear.
  5. How long does the process take? A little longer than the first birth, approximately 1–1.5 hours.

It is also worth considering that the recovery process in this case will be longer and more complex. This is due to the fact that skin that is excised repeatedly takes longer to heal. The involution of the uterus also occurs more slowly, causing discomfort. But if you follow all the rules rehabilitation period, it will pass as soon as possible.

Previously, obstetricians and gynecologists almost unanimously opposed repeat surgical births. Pfannenstiel laparotomy (this is the scientific name for this operation) does have its risks and consequences. But modern medicine stepped far forward. And today, a CS is perceived as a completely normal option for delivery. Of course, before you decide to give birth to a child in this way, you need to consult in detail with your doctor so that he can determine if there are any indications and/or contraindications. A woman should definitely study again possible options outcome of surgical manipulations, take into account that difficulties will have to be encountered not only during the birth process, but also when the baby is already born. After all, the recovery period during a repeat operation is more difficult, the suture left after the second cesarean section will take a long time to heal, and the cycle will not normalize immediately. And only after weighing all the pros and cons can the final decision be made.

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