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When an unplanned C-section might be necessary
By Mayo Clinic staffSometimes complications of pregnancy or delivery require a C-section, even if you had your heart set on a vaginal delivery. Be prepared for a C-section if:
- There's a problem with the placenta. Placenta previa occurs when the placenta lies low in the uterus, sometimes blocking the birth canal. This can cause severe vaginal bleeding. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus before birth. Left untreated, placental abruption puts both mother and baby in jeopardy.
- You develop preeclampsia. This complication is defined by high blood pressure and excess protein in the urine after the 20th week of pregnancy. Preeclampsia doesn't preclude you from trying VBAC if labor begins naturally, but this condition can require an early delivery — which is often best done by repeat C-section.
- Your baby is in the wrong position. By the time labor begins, most babies have settled into a position that allows them to be delivered headfirst through the birth canal. But that doesn't always happen. If your baby is positioned to enter your pelvis feet or buttocks first (breech presentation) or the baby is lying sideways across your pelvis (transverse lie), you'll need a C-section.
- Your labor fails to progress. VBAC isn't possible if your cervix doesn't dilate completely or if your baby doesn't move down the birth canal. Prolonged or obstructed labor increases the risk of uterine rupture.
- There's a problem with the umbilical cord. Sometimes the umbilical cord passes into the birth canal ahead of the baby. If this happens, the baby will compress the cord during contractions. An emergency C-section is needed to prevent oxygen deprivation to the baby.
- Your baby doesn't tolerate labor. If your baby's heart rate doesn't remain within a safe range during labor, you may need a repeat C-section.
