Elective cesarean section is unusual. It happens even when there are no pregnancy complications or problems with the baby.
 

 

Why do people opt for an elective cesarean section

 
Many mothers like the convenience of  scheduling their birth. Some others choose to have a cesarean section due to the following reasons.

• fear of labor and delivery and it’s associated pain
• fear of sexual dysfunction after birth
• fear of damage to the pelvic floor

 
Women who have had an unsuccessful vaginal delivery may decide not to go through it again. First time moms choose elective cesarean section because they may have heard horrible stories about labor and delivery and may be scared to go through it.

Risk associated with an elective cesarean section

 
Having  a cesarean section increases your risk for complications such as

• placenta previa
• hemorrhage
• infection at incision site
• extended hospital stay
• extended recovery time
• risks of additional surgeries

Your baby may also encounter the following health issues

• breathing problems
• premature birth if the gestation age of the baby is wrong
• low apgar score
• fetal injury

 
If you plan to request an elective cesarean section , it is important to discuss this thoroughly with your doctor. It is essential to educated yourself about the benefits and risks of  a c section.

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that a vaginal delivery is safe and should be recommended in the absence of any maternal or fetal recommendations for a c- section

They also recommend that in the case of an election c section,  the procedure

• should not be performed before pregnancy week 39 .
• is not recommended for women who plan to have more children due to the increased risk of  complication such as placenta previa, placenta accreta, and gravid hysterectomy .

 
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