Anesthesia for cesarean section: procedures and risks • hello healthy

x

Definition

What is anesthesia for cesarean section?

Spinal anesthesia involves injecting a local anesthetic and other painkillers into an area called the subarachnoid space, near your spinal cord. This numbs your nerves and relieves pain in certain areas of your body. Your anesthetist will insert a needle, inject an anesthetic through it and then remove the needle. It shouldn't be painful, although it can be uncomfortable. During labor, if you have an epidural that is working well and you need a caesarean section, your anesthetist can give you an extra dose of anesthetic to numb you. Another technique is to insert a small tube in the epidural space at the same time as the needle for the spine (spinal ‐ epidural joint).

When should I get anesthesia for cesarean section?

Sometimes the safest option for you or your baby is a caesarean section. If you are pregnant with twins, you will most likely be considered for a C-section. This will depend on how your pregnancy is developing, your baby's position, and if the baby shares the placenta.

Precautions & warnings

What are the benefits of spinal anesthesia?

Compared to general anesthesia, spinal anesthesia has benefits for you and your baby. If you are awake during the cesarean section, you and your partner can share the moment of birth, and your baby can be brought to you immediately after birth. There are no significant side effects for you or your baby, and you can breastfeed immediately after surgery. Spinal anesthesia is slightly safer than general anesthesia and recovery is usually more comfortable and quicker.

What effect can my baby have?

Some of the anesthetic will be absorbed from you by your baby. This can make your baby sleepy for a while, but there is no long-term effect. You will not be able to hold a baby or breastfeed until you are completely awake.

Process

What should I do before anesthesia for cesarean section?

If you are advised to have a C-section, your doctor will explain why this method is best for you, and what the possible side effects are. Don't hesitate to ask questions.

How is the anesthesia process for cesarean section?

The surgeon will give you general anesthesia, which is a combination of drugs that causes a deep sleep condition. After that you wouldn't know what was going on. Most people fall asleep immediately after the anesthetic is injected through an IV (small tube) into a vein. It takes about 30 seconds for the anesthesia to work. You will continue to fall asleep as long as you inhale the anesthetic gas.

How will my anesthetist know that I am completely asleep?

Your anesthetist will continuously monitor the amount of anesthesia in your body to make sure it is very unlikely that you will regain consciousness during surgery

What will I feel during the operation?

You may feel your stomach being pulled and pushed. You may also feel short of breath because the nerves around your chest will go numb. After delivery, you may feel a heaviness or pressure in your chest.

What should I do after surgery?

Your anesthetist will closely monitor you. When the surgery is over, the anesthesia will subside, allowing you to wake up again. Depending on the help you have at home, you should be ready to leave the hospital within two to four days. You will be encouraged to be active by getting out of bed and walking around as soon as possible, and the midwife or physiotherapist at your hospital will provide advice on exercises that will aid in your recovery. You can return to driving when you are able to move painlessly, and provided you can make an emergency stop. This may happen after six weeks or earlier. If you have questions related to this test process, please consult your doctor for a better understanding.

Complications

What complications can occur?

• failure of spinal anesthesia
• itchy
• difficulty passing stool
• low blood pressure
• headache
• back pain
• unexpected high block
• nerve damage
• blood clots
• feel like you're sick
• sore throat
• muscleache
• tooth decay
• difficulty breathing
• awareness during surgery If you have any questions about possible complications, please consult your doctor for more information.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.