A C-section is one of the most commonly performed surgeries globally, safely birthing millions of babies around the world every single day. But, as with all surgeries, there are risks involved, as one mother recently learned. She was horrified by the nature of C-section injuries her newborn baby girl suffered at the hands of the gynaecologist during delivery.
Mum Furious After C-Section Injuries to Her Baby
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Only identified by her first name due to privacy reasons, Helene is a French mum of three. She recently gave birth to her third daughter via planned C-section. However, the birth process turned into a nightmare for the mum.
While performing the cut to deliver her baby, the gynaecologist also sliced the baby girl’s fragile head with a scalpel. “As a result, she required six stitches. Luckily it was not her face,” said Helene.
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Adding to the horror of the experience, the mum was also appalled at how the hospital treated the incident. The gynaecologist who injured the baby reportedly said it wasn’t that bad, and that it “is only her hair”.
She also claims the anaesthetist did not give her the right dose of anaesthesia, and that she was “in extreme pain”.
But the hospital board in a statement – calling it a rare incident – insists that mum and baby were never in danger the whole time.
The good news is that Helene’s baby girl has recovered from her C-section injuries. Doctors have also removed the six stitches that she needed. They say that other than a small scar, there should be no other effects of the injury.
Still, Helene is considering suing the hospital in question.
C-Section Injuries: Are They Common?
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According to Mayo Clinic, a C-section is generally safe and recommended if a vaginal birth poses risks to mum or baby. However, like any surgery, a C-section involves certain risks.
Aside from accidental lacerations, here are other Caesarean section risks to watch out for:
1. Breathing problems in babies
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More common in scheduled C-sections, issues like rapid breathing can arise when a baby’s lungs aren’t fully developed.
2. Inflammation and infection of the uterus
Also known as endometritis, inflammation and infection of the uterus results in high fever, uterine pain, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
3. Severe bleeding
During a C-section delivery, mums are more likely to lose a lot of blood compared to a vaginal birth.
4. Adverse reactions to anaesthesia
Though rare, some mums experience adverse reactions to common types of anaesthesia like a spinal block or epidural-spinal anaesthesia.
5. Blood clots
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Following a C-section, clots can develop in the veins of the legs or pelvic organs.
These clots become dangerous and life-threatening when they travel to the lungs, otherwise known as a pulmonary embolism.
This is the reason why doctors encourage walking and ambulation after surgery.
6. Wound infection
C-section wound infections usually occur on the incision site or inside the uterus.
7. Surgical injuries
Aside from cuts and nicks on the baby’s skin, there is also a risk of damaging nearby organs like the urinary bladder.
On top of all of this, C-sections can make future pregnancies riskier. After a C-section, a mum is more likely to encounter placental problems and uterine rupture.
However, vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is not impossible. Just be sure to consult your gynaecologist regarding the right choice for you and your baby.
Sources: Yahoo News, Mayo Clinic
Featured image: Yahoo News screengrab
Also read: Vaginal Birth After C-Section