In some cases, it is appropriate for an expecting mother to plan (with physician recommendation) an elective caesarean section. Typically, with a planned caesarean section, spinal anesthesia is the preferred method of anesthesia.
Patients scheduling a caesarean section should follow the same guidelines as other patients who have scheduled surgery. Eight hours prior to the caesarean section, the mother should not eat or drink anything.
After admission to the hospital, many of the same anesthesia procedures for surgical patients are followed. An anesthesiologist will speak with the patient and describe the anesthesia process, including the spinal anesthesia method. Keep in mind that unlike labor epidurals, the numbing section happens very quickly and is more intense.
Common Caesarean Section Questions
May I have family members present during the caesarean section?
One support person may be present in the operating room, after the spinal anesthesia procedure is complete.
How is my pain treated following the caesarean section?
A small pump called a PCA (patient controlled analgesia) is connected to the IV. The pump is set to allocate only a predetermined amount of medication over a specified period of time. The patient is given a button to push to administer pain medication to them through the spinal catheter to manage their own pain levels. For safety purposes, the patient can never receive more pain medication than pre-determined by their anesthesiologist.
What are the side effects of a spinal?
Spinal anesthesia is a type of regional anesthesia just like the epidurals used for vaginal deliveries. The risk factors include headaches (in less than one percent of patients), blood pressure fluctuations and shivers. In some cases, the patient may experience some nausea and vomiting.
Why is the spinal recommended for elective caesarean sections?
While epidurals typically provide excellent anesthesia for caesareans, spinals tend to be more reliable for pain relief.
Will I be sedated during a caesarean section?
No. Any medications given before the caesarean section can effect not only the patient, but also the baby.
When is general anesthesia used for caesarean sections?
General anesthesia is used in situations where epidurals or spinals are not possible. General anesthesia is used when a pre-existing condition may prevent the mother from getting an epidural or spinal, or in an emergency situation, when the results of the anesthesia need to be rapid. One of the primary concerns of general anesthesia for caesarean sections is the increased risk of aspiration of food products from the stomach into the lungs.