A repeat caesarean section usually takes longer and is more difficult than a first operation because of scar tissue. It carries a possibility of wound infection and blood transfusion. A higher risk of developing a blood clot (thrombosis) in the legs or lungs.
Answering the question of whether the second cesarean section is more painful, the answer is: Usually no more pain depending on the condition of the old incision with little or no adhesion, and the surgical technique, and pain relief of the doctors.
Ideally, your doctor will cut through the same scar so that you don't have multiple scars on your abdomen and uterus. Sometimes scar tissue can be difficult to cut through but your doctor should be able to cut through it.
Find out more about vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC). In second and subsequent labours, your contractions often become stronger much more quickly, and are generally much shorter too. The second stage of labour (pushing and birthing your baby) is also generally shorter.
Types of C-section incisions
During a C-section, your doctor makes two incisions. The first is through the skin of your lower abdomen, about an inch or two above your pubic hair line. The second is into the uterus, in order to reach in and deliver your baby.
A repeat caesarean section usually takes longer and is more difficult than a first operation because of scar tissue. It carries a possibility of wound infection and blood transfusion. A higher risk of developing a blood clot (thrombosis) in the legs or lungs.
We know that every patient has a different labor and delivery experience, but in general, it takes around six weeks to completely heal from your C-section. “We realize many of our patients also face the challenge of caring for the baby while they're recovering,” said Dr.
The right time for the second caesarean section
Normally, for a mother with good health and stable fetal development, the most appropriate time to perform a cesarean section is when the fetus is 39 weeks old.
At first, your cut (incision) will be raised slightly and pinker than the rest of your skin. It will likely appear somewhat puffy. Any pain should decrease after 2 or 3 days, but your cut will remain tender for up to 3 weeks or more. Most women need pain medicine for the first few days to 2 weeks.
“So, every patient is different and every case is unique. However, from the current medical evidence, most medical authorities do state that if multiple C-sections are planned, the expert recommendation is to adhere to the maximum number of three.”
A repeat c-section usually takes longer than the first operation. This is because you will have scar tissue, which can make the operation more difficult. Scar tissue might also damage your bowel or bladder. You have a slightly higher risk of placenta praevia and/or placenta accreta in future pregnancies.
Kristina House (USA) has given birth to 11 children (six girls and five boys) all by Caesarean section between 15 May 1979 and 20 November 1998.
Even though labor and vaginal birth can be hard work, they are generally easier on a woman's body than a cesarean. Recovery after vaginal birth is usually shorter and less painful than after a C-section, and allows the woman to spend more time with her baby.
Bring music, books, inspirational photos etc to help you feel calm as you wait. You might even say a few words to baby as you prepare to meet him. If your cesarean is not planned or perhaps it was your greatest fear or worry, ask for a couple of minutes to adjust to this new reality before the birth.
Many women develop issues with their c-section scar after their second or third pregnancy. Even if you didn't have pain before your second pregnancy, you might start to develop pain along the lower abdominal region, specifically around your scar, as you get farther along in your pregnancy. This issue is not uncommon.
It's important to get out of bed and walk around within 24 hours after surgery. This can help ease gas pains, help you have a bowel movement, and prevent blood clots.
Walking after c-section is encouraged and should be your go to for the first few weeks. You'll start to notice day to day movement getting easier and less discomfort lifting baby or moving around.
Try to avoid constipation and straining with bowel movements. You may want to take a fibre every day. If you have not had a bowel movement after a couple of days, ask your doctor about taking a mild laxative.
The success rate for women who attempted a VBAC after 2 c-sections was found to exceed 71%, while the uterine rupture rate was around 1.3%. The risk of complications was similar to those of a repeat c-section.
After a C-section, she recommends women take eight weeks off and to avoid heavy activity to prevent complications.
The typical C-section takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. After your provider delivers your baby, they'll stitch your uterus and close the incision in your abdomen.
We found that babies born via planned caesarean section had poorer scores in all five developmental areas at four months of age. The largest differences were noticed in fine motor skills, while the smallest differences were reported in communication as compared to vaginally born babies.