Ensuring Safety with Caesarean Delivery
While we strongly advocate for natural childbirth, the ultimate goal of any pregnancy is a healthy mother and a healthy baby. A Caesarean section (C-section) is a life-saving surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus when a vaginal delivery is not safe or possible. Dr. Aparna Kalekar is a highly skilled obstetric surgeon with extensive experience in performing both planned (elective) and emergency C-sections, ensuring the highest standards of surgical safety and maternal-fetal well-being.
Indications for a Planned C-Section
A planned C-section is scheduled in advance when medical indications suggest that labor or vaginal birth would be too risky. Common reasons include Placenta Previa (where the placenta covers the cervix), a baby in a breech or transverse position that cannot be turned, multiple gestations (certain twin or triplet pregnancies), a significantly large baby (macrosomia), or maternal medical conditions such as severe heart disease or certain infections. Additionally, women who have had multiple previous C-sections may be advised to schedule a repeat procedure to avoid the risk of uterine rupture during labor.
Emergency C-Section During Labor
Even with the best preparation, unforeseen complications can arise during labor, necessitating an emergency C-section. Indications for an emergency procedure include fetal distress (a drop or irregularity in the baby's heart rate indicating they are not tolerating labor), 'failure to progress' (labor stalls and the cervix stops dilating despite strong contractions), placental abruption (placenta detaches prematurely), or an umbilical cord prolapse. Dr. Kalekar and her team are equipped to make rapid, critical decisions and perform emergency surgery with precision to ensure the immediate safety of both mother and baby.
The Surgical Procedure and Anaesthesia
Most C-sections are performed under regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural block). This numbs the lower half of your body, providing excellent pain relief while allowing you to remain awake, alert, and able to welcome your baby the moment they are born. A screen is placed so you do not see the surgery. The procedure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. Dr. Kalekar uses advanced surgical techniques, typically a low transverse (bikini line) incision, which heals well and is cosmetically less visible. The baby is delivered within the first few minutes, and the remaining time is dedicated to carefully suturing the uterus and abdomen.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Recovery from a C-section involves healing from major abdominal surgery. Patients typically remain in the hospital for 3 to 4 days. Post-operative pain is managed effectively with medications that are safe for breastfeeding. We encourage early mobilization — getting out of bed and taking short walks within 24 hours — as this promotes circulation and speeds recovery. Dr. Kalekar provides detailed guidance on incision care, lifting restrictions (nothing heavier than the baby for a few weeks), and recognizing signs of infection. While physical recovery takes 4 to 6 weeks, we ensure you have the support needed for successful breastfeeding and newborn care during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about C-section delivery.
- Why a planned C-section? Indicated for placenta previa, breech position, multiple pregnancies, or certain medical conditions.
- What is an emergency C-section? Performed during labor if complications like fetal distress or stalled labor occur.
- Will I be awake? Yes, regional anesthesia (spinal) is used, so you are awake and feel no pain.
- How long does the surgery take? Typically 45–60 minutes, with the baby delivered in the first 10–15 minutes.
- What is the recovery time? Hospital stay of 3–4 days; full physical recovery takes about 4–6 weeks.