Aðaskurðaðgerðir

Aðaskurðaðgerðir, also known as cesarean sections or C-sections, are surgical procedures used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. This method is typically employed when a vaginal birth is considered too risky for the mother or the baby. The decision to perform a C-section can be made before labor begins (elective) or during labor if complications arise (unplanned or emergency).

Reasons for performing an aðaskurðaðgerð include fetal distress, breech presentation (baby's feet or buttocks are positioned to come out first), multiple births, placental problems such as placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix), or complications with the mother's health, such as preeclampsia or active genital herpes. If a mother has had previous C-sections, a repeat procedure may be necessary, although vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is also an option in some cases.

The procedure involves administering anesthesia, usually an epidural or spinal block, so the mother is awake but pain-free in the lower body. An incision is made through the abdominal wall, followed by an incision in the uterus. The baby is then delivered, and the placenta is removed. Both incisions are closed with sutures. Recovery time for a C-section is generally longer than for a vaginal birth, often requiring a hospital stay of a few days and a period of restricted activity. While generally safe, potential risks include infection, blood loss, and injury to nearby organs.