Childbirth by Cesarean Section

Childbirth through cesarean section is a highly dynamic phenomenon, and we can never predict how it will end. Therefore, it is always necessary to consider the option of a cesarean section. Let's explore the indications and what a cesarean section entails.

What is a Cesarean Section?

There are numerous types of childbirth, one of which is a cesarean section. It should be noted that this is a serious, albeit one of the most popular and frequently performed procedures, which is far from indifferent to the well-being of both the baby and the mother. While it may take some time to recover, this method has made a significant contribution to reducing perinatal complications and is a crucial, life-saving procedure. According to modern expert knowledge, successful natural childbirth is always much better for both the child and the mother than a routine cesarean section, but it is undoubtedly necessary in strictly defined circumstances.

In many cases, planned cesarean sections are performed based on medical indications.

Indications for Cesarean Section:  

• Incorrect fetal position
• Developmental abnormalities in the baby hindering natural delivery (including hernias and tumors)
• Disproportionate labor and a large fetal weight
• Abnormal fetal heartbeat and imminent fetal asphyxia
• Issues with cervical dilation
• Premature births
• Lack of progress in subsequent stages of labor
• Maternal cardiovascular diseases
• Maternal lung disease
• Severe vision impairment or maternal retinopathy
• Spinal pathologies
• Neurological and psychiatric indications
• Suspicion of internal bleeding
• Active genital herpes
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Placental abruption and placenta previa
• uterine surgery, uterine defects, myomas and neoplasms
• multiple pregnancy
• Previous births ending in a cesarean section

Cesarean section can be planned or emergency during labor due to issues with the mother or baby. Planned cesarean sections are carried out at 38-39 weeks of pregnancy if the health of both the mother and the baby allows waiting until that time.

If there is a threat to the health of the mother or baby during natural vaginal delivery, emergency cesarean section is performed. Common reasons for this include a decrease in the baby's heartbeat. Therefore, fetal heart rate is always monitored during labor.

In Switzerland, childbirth also involves cesarean section when medically indicated. Therefore, it is important to visit a gynecologist regularly, who is overseeing your pregnancy and conduct planned ultrasounds.

Every childbirth in Switzerland is unique. If an emergency cesarean section is needed during natural delivery, qualified doctors will perform the procedure in the best way for both the mother and the baby. In case of various complications, Swiss clinics are equipped with the most modern technical and medical equipment. Thanks to this, childbirth in Switzerland occurs with maximum safety.

What Happens in the Days Following a Cesarean Section?

During the first 24 hours, the medical staff will regularly check your overall condition to assess various parameters such as:

• Pain
• Lochia (postpartum discharge) and uterine contractions
• Inspection of the surgical wound
• Diuresis
• Continued injections
• Resumption of your mobility

In the following days, this monitoring decreases depending on your health condition.

When Can You Go Home?

The duration of your stay in the clinic after childbirth in Switzerland depends on your health and the health of your baby. Often, this is between 4 to 6 days. The discharge date is a joint decision of the gynecologist and pediatrician. It should be known that the recovery time after a cesarean section is longer than with vaginal deliveries.

  How to Care for the Wound After a Cesarean Section

A dressing is applied to the surgical wound, which is removed by medical professionals after 2-3 days. You can take a shower as usual, with soap and water, even with the dressing on. After removing the dressing, gently pat the wound dry with a towel after the shower. The skin will heal in 10-12 days, and all stitches will disappear on their own. There is no need to cover the wound— the main thing is to keep the skin dry. If the wound becomes red and swollen, it may be a sign of a wound infection, which occurs in 1-2 cases out of 100.