Smart health facts: C-section (cesarean section)
Expecting? Scheduling a C-section merely to avoid labor or to choose your baby's birth date is never a good idea. In C-section surgery, an incision is made in your abdomen and uterus so the baby can be lifted out. Unlike a vaginal birth, which has a quick recovery, most women who have C-sections must stay in the hospital for several days. It takes about 4 weeks to fully recover.
Why you might need a C-section
Your doctor will let you know if a C-section is your best choice when:
- The baby isn't positioned well to come through the birth canal, has an abnormal heart rate or a developmental problem (for example, spina bifida) or if there are two or more babies to be delivered
- The baby is too large for your pelvis
- You have an active genital herpes infection, large fibroids, HIV or a severe illness (for example toxemia)
- You've had previous surgery on the uterus, including a C-section, (although some women prefer to try a VBAC – link)
- There are problems with the placenta or location of the umbilical cord
- You have dangerously high blood pressure
Understand the risks of a C-section
- Breathing problems if your baby is born too early
- Infection in you or your baby
- Injury to you or the baby
- Blood clots, increased bleeding
- Potential problems in future pregnancies
- Allergic reaction to the anesthesia, medicine or materials that are used
Ask your doctor about other options
- Good prenatal care and healthy prenatal habits can help avoid some of the problems that result in C-section
- Vaginal delivery with forceps or suction, if needed
- Pitocin to make contractions stronger if labor isn't progressing
Learn more
Should you have a C-section? Learn more. You'll find details in the WebMD® "health encyclopedia," when you log in to your online account. Get help deciding whether you should try a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean).
Other sources of information:
¹ Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 2010.
Thinking about surgery?
Doctors, surgeons, nurses and other health care experts have created an online surgery education website to help you make smart choices and get the best results. It's completely confidential.
Try it now.
