Shared decision making: Before Labor & delivery

Cesarean Section (c-section)

 
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What to know about c-sections

While most babies are born by vaginal delivery, about a third are delivered by Caesarean Section, which is also known as a C-section.

What is a C-Section?

A C-section is the surgical delivery of a baby through an incision in the mother’s abdominal wall and uterus.

Why Are They Done?

If you have been planning to have a vaginal birth, it can be difficult to hear that you need a C-section. Your care team will only recommend a C-section if it is going to be safer for you and your baby. C-sections may be planned or unplanned, depending on the circumstances.

A C-section may be planned ahead of time in certain situations. For example:

  • If you are carrying multiple babies;

  • If you have had a C-section in the past;

  • If you have a medical condition such as a complex heart problem, high blood pressure, or an infectious disease such as HIV.

Switching from a vaginal birth to an unplanned C-section happens when complications develop during labor and delivery. One of the most common reasons to switch to a C-section is that labor is not progressing normally.

There are several reasons this could happen, including:

  • The cervix does not open enough after a few hours of strong contractions;

  • The baby’s head is too big to fit through the birth canal.

 

Are C-Sections Safe?

Yes, they’re generally considered safe, although they do have more risks than vaginal births.

 

What Are the Risks?

A C-section is considered major surgery so it carries with it risks such as infection, increased bleeding, reactions to anesthesia, and developing blood clots. Having a C-section also increases the risk of complications during future pregnancies.

 

Are There Risks to the Baby?

There are some risks to the baby during a C-section. Babies are more likely to develop a temporary breathing problem marked by abnormally fast breathing that goes away after about 24-48 hours.

 

How Long Does it Take to Recover?

You will be in the hospital for 2-3 days, and it usually takes about six weeks to fully recover from a C-section.

 

Can I Choose to Have (or Not Have) a C-section?

You and your care team will decide together what the best method of delivery is for your situation. Generally speaking, a C-section is recommended when it is safer for you and your baby. In the case of an uncomplicated birth, vaginal delivery is the recommended method.