Patient's question:
I had my second child, a daughter, two years ago via cesarean section, leaving a scar on the left side of my abdomen. This year, I am pregnant with my second child and would like to consult. Can I have a natural birth with the second child? What are the risks of having a natural birth after a cesarean section?Doctor's answer:
The first pregnancy was delivered via cesarean section, which means the uterus becomes a scarred uterus after the surgery. In this case, due to the reduced elasticity of the uterine muscle layer, if pregnancy occurs again, the lower segment of the uterus may become very thin as it gradually expands. During the later stages of pregnancy and during labor, there is a possibility of uterine rupture again due to contractions. Therefore, after a cesarean birth in the first pregnancy, it is generally not recommended to have a vaginal delivery in the second pregnancy. However, the risk varies among individuals, as it is still possible to have a vaginal delivery, but the risk is higher.