C-section, also known as cesarean section, is a surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. It is usually performed when there are problems with vaginal birth, such as the baby being too large to pass through the birth canal or when labor has stopped.
So, How many layers are cut during c-section?
At the commencement of a cesarean section, six distinct layers of the abdominal wall and uterus are opened one by one. After the baby is born, a double layer of sutures is used to close the uterus.
In this blog post, we will clear up any misconceptions and give you the facts you should know about this surgical procedure!
What Is A C-Section?
A Cesarean delivery (C-section) is a major surgery where the baby is delivered through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. The operation is done in cases when there’s a risk to both the mother’s and baby’s health.
Because a C-section is a significant surgery, the operation will take between 25 and 60 minutes. Despite this being a lengthier process than vaginal delivery, rest afterward is crucial for healing properly.
Given that this is a major operation, there are several possible issues. Infection, excessive bleeding, and blood clots are some of the problems that might develop. These symptoms, on the other hand, are considered minor and usually go away in a few weeks or months. C-sections can be divided into two categories:
Planned C-Section
A C-section might be a safer option for you and your baby during childbirth than a vaginal birth in some cases. Your doctor will talk to you about the possibility of having a planned cesarean section at different points during your pregnancy, depending on how your situation develops.
The following are some examples of planned C-sections that your doctor may recommend:
- Placenta praevia.
- The baby is in a tough position for delivery (breech).
- When you’re expecting more than two babies.
- Expecting twins who are sharing a placenta.
- One baby is in a breech position, for example.
C-sections are also an option for mothers who have HIV or genital herpes. This reduces the risk of your baby contracting the virus.
A planned C-section is usually scheduled at 39 weeks of pregnancy; before you go into labor.
However, if a C-section is offered for medical reasons, you always have a choice whether to take it or not. Some women even opt to have a C-section even though they don’t need one, medically speaking.
Emergency C-Section
If labor does not progress or there is a medical issue with you or your child, a spur-of-the-moment C-section is likely.
Your doctor will lay out your options and explain why you might need the surgery. However, if both of your health is at risk, a C-section is the only way.
How Many Layers Are Cut During C-Section?
How many layers are sliced during a C-section may be a mystery to you. Your doctor will cut six distinct layers of your abdominal wall and uterus during the operation. Your doctor will open each one separately and meticulously.
There are six distinct layers between your ovaries and your uterus. They are as follows:
- Skin
- Subcutaneous Tissue
- Fascia
- Rectus Abdominal Muscles
- Peritoneum
- Uterus
To enter the abdominal cavity, you must cut every other layer. After you have delivered your baby, your doctor will close up your uterus with two layers of stitches. The next few layers are only stitched with one layer to allow for a more seamless healing process and reduce scar tissue development.
No Solid Food Eight Hours Before Operation
Your doctor will recommend that you only drink clear liquids like juice, sports drinks, or black coffee eight hours before surgery to reduce the risk of vomiting or developing lung complications.
Don’t Shave
On the day of your C-section, a nurse will use clippers to shave your stomach or pubic region because you could scratch your skin if you do it yourself with razors. When this occurs, an infection may develop during delivery.
Shower With A Special Soap
This soap is designed to reduce bacteria on the skin and prevent infection after surgery.
What do You need to Know Before Your Surgery?
Now that you know how many layers are cut during a c-section, it’s time to understand what exactly happens before your c-section.
General/Regional Anesthesia
Your doctor may use two types of anesthesia during your surgery: general or regional. General anesthesia will knock you unconscious for the entire operation, while regional anesthesia only anesthetizes certain areas of your body, so you remain aware and awake throughout the procedure.
Once the doctor believes you’re ready, he will start cutting. C-sections usually take 25 to 40 minutes from start to finish; however, if this is not your first C-section and scar tissue has formed after previous surgeries, it might take longer.
Foley Catheter
A thin, sterile tube will be inserted into your bladder before the operation to avoid infection. The catheter will also help guide your anesthesiologist on how much urine is produced by monitoring the amount of blood loss. If you have regional anesthesia, you would not feel anything as the catheter will be placed afterward.
Sequential Compression Device
The care team may apply a sequential compression device to your legs to improve blood flow. This is done to ensure that your blood does not pool in your calves and form a potentially deadly blood clot. This might feel unpleasant or tight at times.
However, you should resist the urge to remove it. The gadget must be applied continuously until the operation and for as long afterward as you can walk on your own.
Quick Recovery Tips
Many patients feel exhausted post-surgery, but doctors want you to start moving independently as soon as possible.
Women are usually advised to get out of bed and use the toilet within 12 hours after surgery. This ensures that your legs receive a good blood supply in your veins. You can typically return home sooner if you do not have any fever, infection, or digestive difficulties 72 hours after surgery.
You now know how many layers are cut during a c-section, so anytime you experience pain or an unusual feeling, tell your doctor or nurse right away.
This may signify that something is wrong and you need medical attention for other health issues. After surgery, patients usually experience the following:
24 Hours After Surgery
After your surgery, you will recover in the same room as your newborn baby. We encourage you to nurse directly to develop a strong milk supply.
After your operation, some doctors will allow you to eat solid food. Others will wait 24 hours or until you have passed gas before allowing you to eat solids. You’ll wear pads to control the bleeding because you’ll need to pass gas.
Day 2
On the second day, you will be switched to an oral painkiller by the doctors. Additionally, your catheter will be removed so you can start walking to the bathroom independently. You must walk around as much as possible at this time so that your lungs, muscles, and feet can return to their normal functioning.
Don’t worry if you feel a faint vibration coming from your stomach; this usually means that your intestines are working properly again after being slowed down by pain medication.
Day 3
You may be discharged on the third or fourth day if you’re exhausted. However, if you’d rather rest a bit longer, feel free to stay another day.
Two Weeks Postpartum
After your surgery, your doctor will request that you return to his office in a few weeks. He’ll most likely examine your incision to see how it’s doing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many stitches will I get after a c-section?
Ans: The number of stitches you’ll get after a c-section will depend on the length and depth of your incision. The average is between 25 to 40 stitches.
Q2: How many muscles are cut during a C-section?
Ans: During a C-section, your doctor will cut through five layers of skin, nerves, muscle, and tissue. The cut is traditionally vertical. You may now ask for the cut to be done horizontally so that it is easier to conceal in a bikini.
Q3: What is the maximum number of incisions that can be made in a cesarean section?
Ans: Your doctor makes a hole in the abdomen wall before cutting through it and removing the uterus so your child may be born.
Q4: Is c-section painful?
Ans: The pain you experience after a c-section is different for everyone. You will be given medication to help you cope with the discomfort. Additionally, many women report feeling more pressure than pain during the surgery.
Q5: How long does it take to recover from a c-section?
Ans: The typical recovery time for a woman with a c-section is six to eight weeks. However, every woman is different; some may take longer to heal. Additionally, if you have complications, you may extend your recovery time.
Conclusion
A C-section is a serious surgery that you should not take lightly. However, if you are prepared for recovery, you will be just fine. Be sure to follow your doctor’s orders and take things easy to heal properly. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your medical team. They will be more than happy to help you through this process.
