When to plan a delivery after a Caesarean delivery
A delivery is an overwhelming event . Even though it comes with very happy times , it is a long process often with mixed feelings . As a new mom you struggle with bodily changes of pregnancy and lactation , sleepless nights and exhaustion . A caesarean delivery may also be associated with excessive blood loss , pain and infection at the scar site . And the Caesarean section scar is not just skin deep, there’s a cut on the uterus too that heals as time passes . It takes about 6 weeks for physiological changes of pregnancy to return to that of non pregnant state .
The longer we give time for the scar to heal , the better it is . And the longer we give time to our body to heal and recuperate ,better still. Iron stores need to be repleted, calcium levels and Vitamin D levels need to be restored , weight lost and bone and muscle mass built with diet and regular exercise . Repeated pregnancies at short intervals drains the mother not just mentally and emotionally but physically as well .
What is the best time to plan a delivery following a caesarean delivery ?
The WHO recommends 2 years and the Government of India says spacing of children by 3 years is ideal and desirable but that may not always be the best for you . If you’re 35 years of age or more or if you’ve had a high risk pregnancy or problems with fertility , you may not want to delay having another baby for so long . Also , sometimes unplanned pregnancies happen very soon after a caesarean delivery . It’s best to discuss your individual case and concerns with your doctor .
What are the concerns about conceiving very soon after a caesarean delivery ?
There are greater chances of a weak scar on the uterus due to the previous caesarean rupturing . Also your chances of having a VBAC ( Vaginal delivery after Caesarean birth ) go down due to conceiving too soon .
There are greater chances of placental problems like bleeding during pregnancy and an adherent placenta .
Some studies also show chances of preterm births if you conceive too early after a caesarean delivery .
So it’s best to wait for at least 18-24 months after a caesarean delivery to rest , recuperate , heal and take care of your first baby but still talk to your doctor should you wish too/ accidentally conceive before this .
