Why would an emergency C-section be needed?

An emergency C-section may be needed if your baby is in distress, labour isn’t progressing, or there are sudden complications like heavy bleeding or a drop in your baby’s heart rate.

What Is an Unplanned C-Section and Why You Might Need One

An unplanned caesarean section (C-section) can come as a surprise if you’ve been preparing for a vaginal birth. It’s not something most people expect when they go into labour, but it’s more common than you might think. While the word "unplanned" can sound alarming, it simply means the decision was made after labour began rather than before. You might hear doctors call it an emergency C-section or an unplanned one, depending on the situation. Either way, it’s a shift from the original birth plan and can bring up a mix of emotions. You may feel confused, nervous, or even disappointed and that’s completely okay. What matters most in that moment is your health and your baby’s safety.

What is an Unplanned or Emergency C-Section?

An unplanned C-section is a surgical delivery where the baby is born through incisions made in your abdomen and uterus. It is decided either just before or during labour due to unexpected medical needs. An emergency C-section happens when complications arise that make vaginal delivery risky for you or your baby. The goal is to keep you both safe even if it means changing your original plan.

Why Might You Need an Unplanned C-Section?

Several situations can lead to the decision for an unplanned C-section. Your doctor will recommend this if continuing with a vaginal birth could harm you or your baby. These are the main reasons:

Foetal distress: If your baby’s heart rate is too high or too low, it signals they may not be getting enough oxygen.
Labour not progressing: Sometimes, your cervix stops dilating before reaching 10 centimeters or your baby doesn’t move down the birth canal despite pushing.
Umbilical cord problems: A prolapsed or compressed cord can cut off your baby’s oxygen supply.
Maternal health concerns: Issues like high blood pressure, or extreme exhaustion during labour may require a C-section for your safety.
Multiple babies: If you’re carrying twins, their positioning might make vaginal delivery too complex.

How is the Decision Made?

The decision for an unplanned C-section involves a conversation with your doctor. They’ll explain the situation, why a C-section is recommended and the risks and benefits involved. The urgency of the situation affects the timing:

Non-emergency cases: You may start with a vaginal birth attempt before a C-section becomes necessary.
Emergency cases: Delivery may need to happen within minutes if there’s an immediate risk, leaving less time for discussion.

What Happens During an Unplanned C-Section?

This is what you can expect during the procedure:

Preparation: Nurses will set up an intravenous (IV) line in your arm or hand for fluids and medications if you don’t already have one. You’ll sign a consent form and your birth partner may be given a surgical gown to stay with you.
Anaesthesia: Most unplanned C-sections use spinal anaesthesia, which numbs you from the chest down and keeps you awake but pain-free. If you already have an epidural from labour, it can usually be used for the C-section.
Procedure: Your doctor makes a horizontal incision (often called a bikini cut) across your lower abdomen. In emergencies or preterm births, a vertical incision may be used for faster delivery. The baby is delivered through these cuts, followed by the placenta. You won’t feel pain, but you may notice pressure or tugging. A screen is placed to keep the surgical area out of view to help you stay calm.
Meeting your baby: Once it’s safe, you’ll usually be able to see and hold your baby soon after delivery. Skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding can often start right away, just like with a vaginal birth.

An emergency C-section can feel overwhelming when it wasn’t part of your birth plan. But knowing what it means and why it may happen can help you feel more prepared. Just know your doctor’s goal is to keep you and your baby safe.

FAQs on What Is an Unplanned C-Section and Why You Might Need One

What is an unplanned C-section?
An unplanned C-section is a surgical delivery that’s decided after labour has already started. It’s not scheduled ahead of time and usually happens when something changes during labour that makes vaginal birth risky for you or your baby.
Why would an emergency C-section be needed?
An emergency C-section may be needed if your baby is in distress, labour isn’t progressing, or there are sudden complications like heavy bleeding or a drop in your baby’s heart rate.