In recent years, the rate of cesarean sections has been steadily increasing. Statistics show that in most obstetrics and gynecology hospitals, 10-30% of deliveries involve the use of a lower segment cesarean section to deliver the baby.What is a cesarean delivery? A cesarean section involves making an incision in the abdominal wall to deliver the baby. This procedure is necessary when waiting for natural labor poses a life-threatening risk to the mother or fetus, requiring the urgent removal of the baby. Why might doctors choose to perform a cesarean delivery?The following are indications for cesarean delivery:
1. Fetal distress: This occurs when the fetus is in danger due to oxygen deprivation and may result in intrauterine fetal death. A heart rate below 120 beats per minute indicates a more critical situation.
2. Macrosomia: The fetus is too large to pass through the pelvic cavity. For example, mothers with diabetes are prone to macrosomia.
3. Pelvic insufficiency: Some mothers with shorter stature have pelvises too narrow to accommodate fetal passage during delivery.
4. Malpresentation: Normal delivery requires the fetal head to present first. Abnormal presentations include arm presentation, face presentation, transverse occipital position, etc.
5. Mild preeclampsia: Mothers with hypertension, proteinuria, and edema may experience impaired fetal nutrient and oxygen supply via the placenta, making them unable to withstand the stresses of labor.
5. Mild Preeclampsia: Mothers with hypertension, proteinuria, and edema syndrome may fail to provide adequate nutrition and oxygen to the fetus via the placenta, and the fetus may be unable to withstand the stresses of labor.
7. Fetal immaturity: An underdeveloped fetus is more vulnerable. Typically, fetuses under 36 weeks gestation or weighing less than 5 pounds may be unable to withstand the stresses of natural delivery.
8. Small for gestational age (SGA): An inadequate placenta results in insufficient nutrient and oxygen supply, leading to a weak, undersized fetus relative to its gestational age.
9. Placenta previa: Also known as low-lying placenta, this occurs when the placenta attaches too low in the uterus, causing bleeding and obstructing the fetal birth canal.
10. Placental insufficiency: Inadequate placental function impairs nutrient and oxygen delivery, potentially causing fetal distress and growth restriction.
9. Placenta previa: Also known as low-lying placenta, this condition occurs when the placenta attaches too low in the uterus, causing bleeding and obstructing the birth canal.
11. Ovarian Cysts: Cysts on the mother's ovaries can obstruct fetal delivery.
12. Uterine Fibroids: Fibroids in the mother's uterus can impede fetal passage.
13. Maternal Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease place stress on both mother and fetus.
14. Previous Cesarean Section: This is the most common indication for elective cesarean delivery. A uterus previously subjected to cesarean incision is more susceptible to injury; opting for cesarean delivery reduces the risk of uterine rupture.
In these fourteen scenarios, physicians typically recommend cesarean delivery to safeguard the lives of both mother and fetus.