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What is a Cesarean Delivery?
A cesarean delivery, also called a C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. A C-section may be planned in advance if you develop complications with your pregnancy or have had a previous C-section. However, sometimes a C-section is not planned but is needed once labor has already started.
“I highly recommend Dr. Tepper!He is highly professional, experienced, and calming. My pregnancy and birth were such a positive experience thanks to him and his lovely staff at the clinic.”
SEE MOREThere are many different reasons why a C-section is performed instead of vaginal birth, some of which may include:
- The baby is distressed: If there are concerning changes in your baby’s heartbeat, a C-section may be the best option.
- Labor is not progressing: If your labor is not continuing normally and your cervix is not opening enough, a C-section may be required.
- You are pregnant with multiples: In cases where a woman is carrying twins and the leading baby is sitting in an abnormal position, a C-section may be needed to safely deliver both babies.
- The baby is in an abnormal position: A C-section can be the safest way to deliver a baby that is breech or transverse.
- Placenta previa: In cases where a patient has been diagnosed with placenta previa, a C-section is often recommended for optimal delivery.
- Prolapsed umbilical cord: If part of the umbilical cord slips through the cervix before the baby, a C-section may be required.
- A mechanical obstruction: In cases where there is an obstruction of the birth canal or your baby has a condition that causes its head to be unusually large, a C-section can be the best option.
- You’ve had a previous C-section: Women who have experienced a C-section in the past may find that a repeat C-section is the best choice.
MEET DR. ALEX TEPPER
Welcome to my practice. Let me introduce myself and my practice philosophy. I am a board certified OB/GYN in practice for over 20 years and have been a solo-practitioner on the Upper East Side of Manhattan since 2000. All deliveries are performed at The Mount Sinai Medical Center where I went to medical school and at Lenox Hill Hospital.
What Can You Expect from a Cesarean Delivery?
The process of what to expect during a C-section can vary depending on why this procedure is being performed. However, generally, a pre-planned C-section will involve the following steps.
Prior to the C-Section
Your doctor may have you shower using antiseptic soap the morning of your procedure. Once you arrive at the hospital, your abdomen will be cleaned and a catheter will be placed into your bladder. IV lines will also be placed into a vein in your hand or arm to provide fluids and/or medication. Next, anesthesia will be administered. Most C-sections are performed under regional anesthesia which only numbs the lower part of the body. However, in emergency situations, general anesthesia may be required.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Whether you are a new or returning patient, Dr. Tepper can assess your concerns and discuss your options to find the most comfortable and convenient care for you. To get started, call our office to set up an appointment.
CALL FOR APPOINTMENTDuring the C-Section
The process of performing a C-section may vary slightly. However, this procedure generally involves your doctor creating an incision in your belly and uterus. You will not be able to feel any of this due to the anesthesia. The baby will then be removed from the uterus. During a planned C-section, this process usually takes about 15 minutes, while a baby can be removed in as little as 2 minutes during an emergency C-section.
After the C-Section
Following your C-section, you may need to stay in the hospital for a couple of days. Once your anesthesia begins to wear off, you will be encouraged to drink plenty of water and get up and walk around. This will help to prevent both constipation and the risk of blood clots. Your hospital team will closely monitor your C-section incision for signs of infection. Mothers can start breastfeeding as soon as they wish. Before you return home with your baby, your doctor will speak with you regarding what to expect when healing.
Contact Us to Learn More
For more information regarding cesarean deliveries, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tepper. We will be happy to answer any of your questions.
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