Emergency Cesarean Delivery
In certain cases, a cesarean delivery becomes necessary unexpectedly during labor. One such situation is when there are no indications beforehand that a C-section is needed. If the baby’s heart rate deviates from the normal range, which is below 120 beats per minute or above 160 beats, and other medical interventions fail to resolve the issue, the healthcare provider may opt for a C-section. Additionally, if the progress of labor is hindered due to factors such as the baby being in a challenging or impossible position for delivery, an unplanned C-section may be performed.
Labor Induction: When and Why It’s Done
When a woman surpasses her due date by two weeks without going into labor, her healthcare provider may consider labor induction. This procedure, which is quite common, is chosen for about 25% of women. The aim is to stimulate uterine contractions and initiate labor. However, not all women are eligible for labor induction. Those with a history of previous C-section, a baby in a breech or sideways position in the uterus, or placenta previa (where the placenta is blocking the cervix) may not have this option. In addition, most obstetricians discourage labor induction for non-medical reasons and recommend it only when there is a genuine medical need.