W2 - Shining the light on surgical birth during the antenatal period. Caesarean section is a possibility in every pregnancy but how do pregnant people learn about the risks and benefits beforehand?

Abstract

Caesarean section is a possibility in every pregnancy however, questions raised by C-section mothers on social media forums suggest many women have little or no awareness or education about the process and recovery. The incidence of surgical site infection (SSI)post Caesarean section is 3-15% and surgical wound dehiscence (SWD) is 2-8%. Given that sepsis is the leading cause of death in the UK and 4th leading cause in Australia, it is important we raise awareness and encourage preventative measures. To bring awareness to midwives, consumers, doctors, hospitals, universities, and childbirth educators of the importance of providing childbirth education that teaches about the possibility of caesarean birth, its risks and benefits and recovery aspects. Two midwives have co-authored the book ‘C-section Recovery - Your Body Your Recovery’, which is designed to empower women and their carers with knowledge and resources to help promote healing and wellness. The book will be launched in May 2022. In addition they have also created teaching aids and devices to support recovery after caesarean birth namely - a TGA approved wound splint, an eBook, Five Guide ‘a visual narrative for enhancing recovery’ and online C-section recovery courses. The two authors are offering a workshop where they will share their research and demonstrate their resources. The workshop will include an introductory quiz, current research, case studies, demonstrations, two short Five Guide videos and hands on application of the TGA authorised wound splint. The World Union of Wound Healing Specialists (WUWHS) identify patient education during ante-partum, intra-partum, and post-partum stages as critical to prevention and management of surgical wound complications. As midwives, how we can better prepare women for the possibility of surgical birth and complications? Do we need more comprehensive antenatal childbirth education to raise awareness?