Initially, the classical method of doing a cesarean was to make a vertical incision in the upper part of the uterus. Incisions like this are more likely to rupture when labour begins leading to bleeding that could put the lives of both the mother and baby at risk. This is because this incision cuts through the lower part of the uterus that has fewer muscles and is less full of blood vessels lowering the chances of bleeding due to uterine rupture. The present practice for women who have had previous cesarean sections with a low transverse incision in the uterus is to give them a trial of labour and vaginal birth. However, the doctors should be prepared to perform an emergency cesarean should the need arise.
Doctors often perform a cesarean as a matter of course when the baby is in a breech position.
A breech is when the baby s feet or bottom enter the birth canal first instead of the head. This makes a vaginal delivery particularly risky because there are more chances of a prolapsed cord or fetal injury. Failure of labour Dystocia is the medical term for failure to progress in labour. Some women have ineffective uterine contractions that lead to prolonged labour. The woman may be unable to push the baby out under her own steam.