Shikha A., 25

Shikha Akhtar, a resilient housewife, lives with her husband, two children, and elderly in-laws in a small tin-made house. Her husband earns only 7,000 BDT per month, barely enough to feed the five-member family, leaving nothing for emergency medical costs. After losing her first baby and undergoing two cesarean deliveries, she now carries her third child, but the USG shows reduced blood flow that signals fetal distress. Without urgent cesarean treatment, both her life and the baby’s could be at serious risk, repeating the tragedy of her past. Despite her struggles, Shikha remains hopeful for a safe delivery and dreams of giving her children a better future.

Shikha Akhtar was admitted at 37 weeks of pregnancy with signs of fetal distress—lower abdominal pain, watery discharge, and reduced fetal movement. Because she had two prior caesarean deliveries and a history of intrauterine fetal demise, the obstetric team recommended an urgent caesarean section to protect both mother and baby. After pre-operative preparation and anesthesia assessment, Shikha underwent a lower-segment caesarean section. The procedure was completed without complications, a healthy baby was delivered, and blood loss remained within normal limits. Post-operatively, Shikha was monitored in the recovery unit for vital signs, uterine contraction, and incision care. She received intravenous fluids, antibiotics to prevent infection, and pain relief as needed. By the 2nd her bowel function and mobility had returned, and the incision was clean and dry. On the third postoperative day she was discharged with instructions on wound care, breastfeeding, and follow-up visits. Shikha recovered smoothly and went home healthy, able to enjoy life with her newborn and family.

If Shikha Akhtar undergoes timely cesarean delivery, both her life and her baby’s chances of survival are greatly improved, giving her a safe outcome despite her complicated obstetric history. The intervention will help prevent further oxygen deprivation to the fetus, reducing the risk of brain injury, stillbirth, or long-term disability. For the mother, surgery will also lower the risk of life-threatening complications such as uterine rupture or severe bleeding. However, if left untreated, the baby may not survive the ongoing fetal distress, and Shikha herself could face serious health risks. With proper medical care, she has the opportunity to overcome past tragedies and return home safely to her family with a healthy child.