Cesarean Birth
Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances during a woman’s labor result in the need for a cesarean birth (C-section). A C-section is when the obstetrician makes an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby. There are a number of reasons why a woman may need a C-section, ranging from emergent issues such as fetal distress or a uterine rupture, or less urgent issues such as laboring while failing to dilate or the baby is in a breech position.
Regardless of the situation, any mother who needs a C-section while giving birth at WakeMed North Hospital is in excellent hands. Twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, our board-certified, highly skilled and experienced OB/GYNs are on-site to perform and/or assist with cesarean deliveries. This is especially important for women whose regular OB/GYNs cannot get to the hospital in time. Additionally, we provide 24/7 coverage by highly skilled neonatal specialists who are present during all cesarean and complicated vaginal births. Learn more about the neonatology services at North Hospital.
At North Hospital, we have a dedicated surgical room for C-sections and our operating room (OR) can also be used for the procedure if necessary. Both are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and accessories, necessary to ensure the safety and comfort of both mother and baby.
Vaginal Delivery After C-Section
If the mother has had two or fewer cesarean sections and her records confirm a transverse or side-to-side cut in the lower part of the uterus, then we do support VBAC after counseling with a physician.
Things get more complicated if the mother has three of more c-sections because her risk for uterine rupture will be higher. This is not to say that a VBAC is out of the question, but it would be very important for the mother to be well-informed of the risks, have a strong partnership with a physician who specializes in high-risk deliveries and the delivery should occur at Raleigh Campus where there are high-level services available in the event of complications.
It is also a great idea for any mother, regardless of the number of c-sections, to have a consultation with a maternal fetal medicine provider. WakeMed Physician Practices – Maternal Fetal Medicine physicians offer appointments at each of our hospitals.
Scheduled C-Sections
If your OB/GYN practice has privileges at WakeMed North and you are planning to deliver by C-section, the procedure can be scheduled at our facility. Please inquire with your OB/GYN for details.
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