Question: Why would you need a scheduled cesarean section?
Answer: There are different reasons that you may have a scheduled cesarean section prior to labor or at the beginning of labor. Most of these reasons have to do with the safety of the mother and/or the baby. These include, but are not limited to:
- Placenta Previa
- Certain Fetal Positions (Transverse Lie, some Breeches, etc.)
- Higher Order Multiples
- Active Maternal Herpes
- Previous invasive uterine surgery, including a previous classical cesarean incision
- Certain Fetal Conditions
- Diseases that may make vaginal birth difficult like pulmonary or coronary disease of the mother
- HIV positive with a high viral load at time of birth
When a scheduled cesarean is discussed, be sure to ask questions about the procedure, including why, what the benefits are, what the risks are and what alternatives there are for you and your family.
