Presentation Information

Caesarean Section: Representations, Ruminations and Realities…

• Speaker: Lynne Staff , RM, BHlthScNsg, MMid (Hons)
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, .1 Midwifery CEU

Abstract:

Classified as major surgery, Caesarean Section (CS) most simply defined, is a procedure performed to remove a fetus from a woman through an incision through her abdomen and uterus. The focus of this presentation lies in the shifting representations of CS: from its earliest origins, to representations of CS in contemporary birth. Historical elements have significantly influenced the development of CS, and these are briefly discussed to contextualise its shifting use in relation to contemporary understandings of CS: including the normalisation of CS, media representation of CS, maternal request CS in the absence of a medical indication, the ‘Natural’ CS, the experience of CS through women’s eyes, and how women can best be supported by health professionals throughout their journey of CS and birth after CS.