Language
Country/Area
No result found
The Hidden History of Cesarean Sections: How Ancient Medicine Changed Obstetric Surgery?
The term caesarean section (C-section) is familiar to many people. It is a procedure in which one or more babies are delivered into the world through an incision in the mother's abdomen. Historically, the technology and concepts of caesarean section gradually evolved in the ancient medical system and developed with the advancement of the times. However, this operation was not a common obstetric option in ancient times. It was not until the innovation of modern medical technology that caesarean section became an important means of saving the lives of mothers and babies.
Cesarean section has a history dating back to 715 BC, but almost no mothers survived. With the advancement of medical technology, the number of successful caesarean sections has gradually increased.
The ancient roots of caesarean section
As for the early history of caesarean section, there are many legends and records indicating that this procedure was first attempted as early as ancient times. It is said that the name caesarean section comes from the Roman statesman Julius Caesar, who is rumored to have been born via caesarean section. However, this theory has no historical basis, as his mother Aurelia survived nearly 50 years after his birth.
The poor delivery environment and lack of effective post-operative care made the ancient caesarean section widely considered a desperate option, and was usually not carried out unless the mother had died and only the baby survived in cruel cases. As a result, acceptance of caesarean sections has historically been very limited, whether due to medical reasons or social pressure.
Technological progress and the popularity of caesarean section
The medical revolution of the 19th century laid the foundation for the popularization of caesarean sections. With the introduction of anesthesia and antimicrobial technology, the chances of mother and baby survival have greatly improved, and the risk of caesarean section is no longer so daunting. In 2021, approximately 23 million caesarean sections were performed globally each year, demonstrating the huge demand and importance of this surgery.
The World Health Organization recommends that caesarean sections should only be performed when medically necessary.
Modern applications of caesarean section
Indications for caesarean section include, but are not limited to, birth canal obstruction, twin pregnancy, high blood pressure, breech labor, placental abnormalities, and umbilical cord problems. These situations may put mother and baby at risk, and choosing a caesarean section can best protect their safety. In addition, due to women's personal needs, the medical system in some countries has begun to accept caesarean sections based on women's requests.
Risks and considerations of caesarean section
Although caesarean section can effectively reduce some risks, it still comes with a series of subsequent risks. Complications after surgery include infection, poor wound healing, and health problems such as menstrual cramps. And for future pregnancies, women who have had a caesarean section also appear to be at increased risk for dangerous conditions such as placenta increta.
Mothers who have had a caesarean section should be more cautious in future pregnancies because multiple caesarean sections are associated with higher health risks.
Today’s attitude and future development
With the improvement of society’s understanding and tolerance of women’s reproductive choices, the choice of caesarean section has become increasingly recognized. Many medical experts call for giving full consideration to the health of mother and baby when choosing a birth method to avoid unnecessary caesarean sections. However, the use of caesarean section remains uneven around the world, with some countries having caesarean section rates below 7.5% and others as high as over 27%.
Medical progress will continue to optimize the technology of caesarean section to make it safer and more effective. The medical community is also working hard to improve the standards and guidelines for caesarean section. Against this background, do women today have enough choice and information when facing obstetrical choices?
