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C-section
- A cesarean section is the birth of a baby by surgery.
- You may need a c-section if there are problems with your pregnancy.
- Recovery from a c-section is longer than from a vaginal birth.
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Having your baby by c-section
A cesarean section (also called c-section) is surgery in which your baby is born through a cut that your doctor makes in your belly and womb (uterus). Most women have their babies through vaginal birth. But if there are problems with your pregnancy or during labor, you may need to have a c-section to keep you and your baby safe.
In this topic, learn about having a c-section, including what happens during a c-section, how to prepare for it and what recovery’s like. Find out some medical reasons for a c-section and if it’s risky for you or your baby.
If there are problems with your pregnancy, you and your provider may plan for a c-section. If you’re planning to have a c-section, find out why waiting until at least 39 weeks is so important for your baby.
Medical reasons for a c-section
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule my c-section?
Yes. But more and more c-sections are being scheduled early for non-medical reasons.
Experts are learning that this can cause problems for both mom and baby. If you know you're having a c-section, wait until at least 39 weeks of pregnancy. This helps you make sure your baby has all the time she needs to grow before she's born. You may not have a choice about when to have your baby. If there are problems with your pregnancy or your baby's health, you may need to have your c-section earlier. But if you have a choice and you're planning to schedule your c-section, wait until at least 39 weeks.
What are some reasons to have a c-section?
You may need a c-section if there are medical problems that put you or your baby in danger. For example, you may need a c-section if your baby is too big to pass through the birth canal, or if the baby is in a breech position (feet first) or a transverse position (shoulder first). The best position for your baby is head first. You may need a c-section if your labor is really slow or if the baby's heart rate slows during labor. Other reasons for a c-section include having problems with the placenta or with the umbilical cord, having an infection that you can pass to your baby during birth, and being pregnant with twins or more. If you've had a c-section in a previous pregnancy, you may need to have one in your next pregnancy. If your pregnancy is healthy and there's no medical reason to have a c-section, it's best to plan for a vaginal birth and wait for labor to start on its own. Ask your provider if there are reasons why you may need to have a c-section.
What kind of anesthesia should I get during a c-section?
Most likely you'll have regional anesthesia so you can stay awake for your baby's birth. This kind of anesthesia numbs you from below your breasts all the way down to your toes. If you have an emergency c-section, you may need general anesthesia. General anesthesia makes you go to sleep during the surgery.