Routine obstetric care for cesarean delivery, including pre-and postdelivery care

Procedure Information

What is Routine Obstetric Care for Cesarean Delivery Including Pre-and Postdelivery Care?

Routine obstetric care for cesarean delivery, including pre-and postdelivery care, is a medical procedure done to prepare for, deliver and recover from a baby being born through surgery instead of through labor.

Why Would I Get Routine Obstetric Care for Cesarean Delivery Including Pre-and Postdelivery Care?

A cesarean delivery may be necessary if a pregnancy is at risk due to a medical condition such as an abnormally flexible uterus or placenta previa. Sometimes a mother may need this procedure if labor is progressing too slowly or if an induction is not successful.

What Happens During Routine Obstetric Care for Cesarean Delivery Including Pre-and Postdelivery Care?

Pre-delivery care includes preparation for the procedure, testing to make sure the baby is healthy, and counseling on the expected effects and potential complications of the procedure. During delivery a special instrument called an ultrasound is used to measure the baby, and then the baby is delivered through a surgical incision made in the mother’s abdomen. After delivery your obstetrician will care for your incision and direct the nursery staff in caring for your baby, who will stay in the hospital for up to 5 days after the birth.

What to Expect After Routine Obstetric Care for Cesarean Delivery Including Pre-and Postdelivery Care?

You can expect to stay in the hospital for up to four days following the procedure to make sure your incision is healing properly. You might experience some soreness, swelling, or bruising that should subside over a few weeks. You may need to avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby for about 6 weeks, and it may take up to 12 weeks to fully recover.

Conclusion

Routine obstetric care for cesarean delivery, including pre-and postdelivery care, is a procedure to prepare for, deliver and recover from a baby being born through surgery instead of through labor. If a baby is at risk during a pregnancy due to a medical condition, this may be necessary. Many tests, counseling, and preparation is involved before the procedure, and recovery can take up to 12 weeks.