(1) Special circumstances during natural labor necessitating emergency delivery. This includes complications in any stage of labor—such as issues with the birth canal, fetus, or maternal condition—that may warrant a cesarean section to deliver the baby. (2) Pregnancy-related complications requiring fetal extraction. Examples include placental abruption, cord prolapse, uterine rupture, or other conditions threatening maternal or fetal safety.
(3) When natural delivery is anticipated to pose risks to the mother or baby. Examples include breech or transverse fetal presentation, macrosomia, cephalopelvic disproportion, placenta previa, maternal pelvic narrowing or deformity, rigid soft birth canal in older primiparas, or severe maternal comorbidities rendering natural delivery unfeasible.
Cesarean section is essentially an abdominal surgical procedure, and like any surgery, it carries inherent risks and potential complications. To minimize the impact of cesarean delivery, families opting for this procedure should note the following:
(1) Seek immediate medical attention at the hospital upon experiencing signs of labor onset.
(2) Sign the surgical consent form: As a surgical procedure, medical staff will explain necessary precautions and details about the operation to the mother and family, requiring the father to sign the consent form.
(3) Preoperative fasting: Similar to other surgeries, fasting for 6–8 hours before the procedure is required. This means skipping breakfast if the surgery is scheduled for the next morning, and skipping lunch if it is scheduled for the afternoon.
(4) Early mobilization: Typically, walking beside the bed is possible within 24 hours after a cesarean section. Eating may resume after passing gas.
(5) Essential contraception: It is safer to wait at least six months after a cesarean section before undergoing an abortion. If planning to have another child, it is best to wait at least one year after the cesarean. If hoping for a vaginal delivery next time, wait two years before becoming pregnant again.
(6) Pelvic floor muscle and ligament exercises remain necessary after cesarean delivery.