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21 January, 2019

Pregnancy after C-section: How long to wait?

Many parents want to have more than one child and will try to get pregnant again as soon as possible. However, in case of a Caesarean section, you might have to wait longer than normal before you plan your next child. Usually, doctors advise enough gap between two deliveries, especially if you have had a C-section.

Here is all you need to know about trying again after a C-section delivery.

Gap after a C-section

Doctors recommend waiting at least six months after C-section before trying again. A World Health Organization report recommends that the mother should ideally have a gap of 24 months to reduce the risk of adverse maternal, perinatal and infant outcomes. This gives enough time for the C-section wounds to heal.

How can a gap help after C-section?

If you’ve had a C-section, your body takes more time to heal from it as a compared to a vaginal birth. Here is why you need a gap after the surgery:

  • Caesarean section is a major abdominal surgery and recovery time varies from one woman to another. The more time you give for recovery, the fewer complications are you likely to face during your next delivery.
  • If you have had complications in your previous pregnancies, it would be better to wait before planning the next baby.
  • Your body loses a lot of nutrients while delivering through a C-section and it needs enough time to replenish them.
  • It can get difficult for you to take good care of yourself while also nurturing your infant.
    You will also be more prone to certain health risks if you get pregnant immediately after a C-section.

Risks associated with giving birth soon after C-section

Getting pregnant soon after a C-section can increase your risk for the following:

  1. Placenta Previa: In this condition, the placenta attaches itself to the lower uterine wall that covers the cervix completely or partially. It is associated with vaginal bleeding during or after delivery. Having a C-section previously can result in placenta previa in the subsequent pregnancy.
  2. Placental abruption: Placental abruption is associated with a low lying placenta or a complete detachment of the placenta from the womb, which can be a serious complication.
  3. Increased risk of uterine rupture: Vaginal birth after C-section can lead to uterine rupture, especially if the gap between two pregnancies is very less. Uterine rupture refers to the tearing of your previous C-section scar. Women who are overweight and have had a C-section previously are at an increased risk of uterine rupture.
  4. Premature birth: A gap of less than six months can lead to premature birth. In such case, the deliveries usually occur before 36-37 weeks.
  5. Low birth weight: Women who become pregnant too soon after a C-section can deliver babies with low birth weight, i.e., under 2.5 kg.

You might want to get pregnant soon after your C-section. However, you should keep all these risks in mind before you try to conceive. Meet our experts at KIMS Cuddles to understand more about when to conceive after C-section.

*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.

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