Lower segment Caesarean section (LSCS)
An LSCS can be performed as an elective choice or during an emergency when any risk to the mother and newborn is involved in a vaginal delivery. Cesarean sections are performed at full term at the end of 38 weeks. The indications for performing a C-section are as follows:
● The fetus is in the breech position (buttocks first)
● Low lying placenta, known as placenta previa
● Pre-eclampsia or high blood pressure during pregnancy
● Infections like genital herpes and other sexually transmitted infections
● Fetal distress
● Head of the fetus is large leading to cephalopelvic disproportion
● Cervical cancer
● Malposition of the fetus
● Compression of the umbilical cord
● Post-term pregnancy
● Labor not progressing or bleeding from the vagina A cesarean section is contraindicated during
● Scarring or infection of the abdominal wall
● Disseminated intravascular coagulation
● Dead fetus Many women opt for a cesarean birth for non-medical reasons such as avoiding the pain of normal labor. If anxiety related to vaginal birth is the only reason for selecting a C-section, it is advisable to speak to an obstetrician about the risks involved with cesarean delivery and the benefits of vaginal birth.
Lower Segment Caesarean Section LSCS Process
A catheter is inserted into the bladder for collecting urine during the course of the surgery. An anesthesiologist administers epidural or spinal anesthesia, which allows the woman to be conscious throughout the surgery. In some cases, a general anesthetic may be given. A screen is placed, which separates the mother from the surgical team so that she is unable to watch the procedure being performed. A 20 cm horizontal cut is given on the abdominal wall on the pelvic line. The baby is delivered through the opening. The newborn is lifted above the screens so that the mother can see her newborn. The umbilical cord is cut and an injection of oxytocin is given for inducing uterine contractions for separating the placenta. After the placenta is removed, the uterus is sutured in layers using dissolvable stitches, and the incision on the abdominal wall is sutured either in dissolvable stitches or staples, which are removed after a few days. The entire procedure lasts for about an hour.
