Risks to Reproductive Health After Multiple C-Sections
Can Multiple Cesareans Affect the Chance of Future Pregnancies?
The use of c-section is on the rise, due in part to an increase of elective cesarean over vaginal delivery. In addition to the risks associated with major surgery, c-sections can cause other health issues within the body, especially to the reproductive system.
According to an article on Childbirth Connection, c-sections carry further reproductive risks to women such as increased chance of pregnancy developing outside the uterus, potential decrease in fertility and problems with the placenta in subsequent pregnancies. These risks of these problems goes up with each c-section performed.
When a c-section is performed, not only is the abdomen cut open, but so is the uterus. Although the uterus is repaired, it must heal. Depending on your body, you run the risk of developing excess scar tissue which can affect the uterus and surrounding organs.
Multiple c-sections can interfere with reproduction if the uterus doesn't heal properly. This can cause problems with the placenta in subsequent pregnancies which can lead to premature delivery, miscarriage or stillbirth.
A type of scar tissue that is prevalent after abdominal surgeries, especially c-sections, is called adhesions. Adhesions are fibrous bands of scar tissue that can attach organs together or to the abdominal wall. According to an article on adhesions and c-sections on pregnancyinfo.net, 93% of abdominal surgeries result in the development of adhesions.
Adhesions can alter functioning of the ovaries or block fallopian tubes, leading to trouble conceiving in the future. Infertility can also be caused when adhesions develop within the uterus which can affect the placenta, baby's growth or even the ability to get pregnant. These risks increase with multiple c-sections.
Many women prefer to try vaginal delivery even after having a cesarean to reduce risks associated with abdominal surgery. Speak with your doctor to see if this is an option for you. If you are not a candidate for trying vaginal birth, there are products your surgeon can use during surgery to reduce your risk of developing adhesions.
If you've had a past c-section, talk with your OB/GYN about your options regarding vaginal birth after c-section. This has been found to be a safe option for many women rather than increasing risks to reproductive health after multiple c-sections.
SOURCE:
Childbirth Connection; Cesarean Section
pregnancyinfo.net; C-Sections and Adhesions
Published by Jolynne M Hudnell
Jolynne is a part-time freelance writer and independently-published poet. Jolynne has knowledge and experience in a variety of topics. Jolynne enjoys singing and writing poetry. Her published work in... View profile
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