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Birth is frequently considered to be one of the most beautiful and natural moments in a woman's life, however, the event itself can be very difficult to plan for as giving birth is usually unpredictable and sometimes carries the risk of complication.
Occasionally, a natural birth is not the safest way for a baby to be born, and a significant number of mothers every year deliver their babies by caesarean, either by choice or out of necessity.
In some cases a doctor may decide that it would be safer for a mother and her unborn child to have a planned caesarean (elective caesarean). The procedure is often chosen when the doctor or midwife believes that labour may be dangerous to the mother and/or baby.
However, there are a few circumstances in which mothers have to undergo unplanned caesareans (emergency caesarean), usually when unforeseen complications develop and it is important that the baby is delivered as soon as possible.
An emergency caesarean may be suggested both before and during labour when a doctor or midwife becomes concerned about the safety of the baby. Sometimes, the procedure may be suggested if the mother's cervix has not fully dilated during labour.
The caesarean itself is a surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered during an operation – surgeons cut through the mother's abdomen and womb. Mothers are usually awake during the procedure which is frequently performed under an epidural or spinal anaesthesia.
The mother will not usually feel any pain during the operation, however, she may feel a pulling or tugging sensation as the baby is delivered. The doctor will talk the mother through the procedure, but a screen is put up to prevent the mother from seeing the actual operation as it happens.
The whole procedure usually lasts between 40-50 minutes, although it is common for the delivery to only last for around 10 minutes. Mothers who have been awake throughout the operation can usually hold their baby immediately after the surgery.
Making a claim for a birth injury
Although doctors and midwives usually strive to work to their best abilities, there are unfortunately some cases in which a mother or her child suffers a birth injury due to another person's negligence.
Such circumstances can be devastating and traumatic for the whole family, and if you have sustained a birth injury, a birth injury lawyer may be able to help you make a compensation claim which can ease any financial stress.
Find out more about whether you are entitled to make a birth injury claim by calling YouClaim now on 0800 10 757 95, or start a Live Chat.
