The most common, single reason for performing a Cesarean is dystocia, a catchall term that describes a slow or difficult labor. Certain medical conditions in either the mother or fetus can lead to Cesarean birth. Usually, the classic incision is used only in cases of placenta previa or when the fetus lies horizontally across the birth canal. Both the lumbar epidural and spinal are considered regional anesthesia because they deaden pain in only part of the body without putting the patient to sleep. General anesthesia, which renders the patient unconscious, is often used in an emergency situation and with women who object to spinal or epidural approach.
Cesarean childbirth is safe.
However, because major surgery is involved, the chance of infection and complication is greater. Cesareans also result in more overall pain after the operation than a vaginal delivery and a longer hospital stay. Although maternal death during childbirth is extremely uncommon, Cesareans carry a higher risk of death compared to a vaginal delivery. RDS, a condition in which the infant s lungs are not fully mature, may result if an error is made in estimating the age of the developing fetus. Success rates for VBAC range from 60 to 80 percent.