Attempted Induction Ended in Cesarean Before a Labor Pattern Began
March 21, 2025
Content Warning: This page contains very graphic images of childbirth, including highly detailed and medically sensitive photos. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. These images are for educational purposes only and must not be reproduced, shared, or distributed without permission.
Concern for Baby’s Well-Being
Concerned about fetal heart tones, the midwife calls in the doctor and an ultrasound is performed. Concerned about the baby should she try a full labor, a cesarean is agreed upon.
Preparing for Surgery
Mom is wheeled into the operating room…alone until Dad gets there.
Comfort and Support
Dad comforts Mom while preparations are being made.
Administering the Spinal Block
A spinal is administered.
Surgical Preparation
The belly is washed and prepped for surgery. A line is drawn on the skin to mark where the incision will be before the clear surgical tape that will cover the entire area is placed over the belly.
The First Incision
The first incision is begun, Then afterward the incision is made a little deeper.
Managing Bleeding
A cauterizing wand is taken out to cauterize any place that happens to start bleeding.
Accessing the Uterus
The layers of skin fat and muscles are pulled back and away to expose the uterus. Then the surgeon uses both hands to tear apart some of the tissues.
Approaching the Amniotic Membrane
Another layer is exposed. The uterus can be seen. The last layer before the Amniotic membrane is reached and the doctor snips with his scissors.
Opening the Amniotic Membrane
What looks like a metal spatula with the edges curled is inserted into the bottom of the incision to hold open the incision. The doctor is preparing to snip open her amniotic membrane right now.
Fluid Release and Suction
Amniotic fluid spills out of the edges of the incision…the nurse quickly suctions away the amniotic fluid (the long tube she’s holding at the edge of the incision).
Delivering the Baby
The doctor reaches in and gets his hand under the baby’s head. Baby’s hair can now be seen as he’s holding the head in his hand.
Baby’s Arrival
The head is pulled out! The baby’s nose and mouth are suctioned immediately. And the rest of the baby is pulled out of mom’s uterus.
Immediate Care for Baby
Baby is suctioned again while laying on mom’s legs/lap. And baby cries a hearty cry as it is lifted up to be taken to the warmer!
First Family Meeting
Dad and baby meet for the first time. What a beautiful baby girl! And so mad at being out in this bright cold world!
Mom Meets Her Baby
Mom meets her baby for the first time as Dad holds her.
Examining the Placenta
The fetal side of the placenta. I’m holding the amniotic membrane that held the baby up, and you can sort of see how it might have held the baby. The umbilicus is seen.