In which conditions is cesarean delivery indicated?

Cesarean delivery is indicated in specific medical conditions to ensure the safety and health of both the mother and the infant. In cases such as placenta previa, a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, vaginal delivery poses significant risks of bleeding and preterm birth; thus, a cesarean is necessary to prevent complications.

Fetal distress, which may present as abnormal heart rates during labor, indicates that the fetus is not tolerating labor well and may be at risk, necessitating a cesarean delivery to protect the baby's wellbeing. Similarly, failure to progress in labor, which may involve situations where there is inadequate cervical dilation or descent of the fetus despite adequate contractions, can mean that the labor is not advancing as it should, making surgical intervention necessary for a safe delivery.

These indications for cesarean delivery are based on the need for intervention due to potential risks associated with either the mother’s health or the baby's health. In contrast, other choices either limit the indications to non-medical reasons or suggest inappropriate circumstances for this surgical procedure.