Caesarian

Caesarian, more commonly spelled cesarean or Caesarean section, refers to a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus. The term is used primarily for the delivery method, though caesarian can also appear as an adjectival form relating to Caesar, or to the historical or fictional associations with Julius Caesar. The name’s exact origin is debated; in medical usage it derives from Latin terms meaning “to cut” rather than from the person Caesar.

Indications for a caesarean section include situations where vaginal delivery would pose a risk to the mother or fetus. Common reasons are labor dystocia (prolonged or obstructed labor), abnormal fetal presentation (such as breech), placenta problems (placenta previa or placenta accreta), previous cesarean birth or other uterine surgeries, and certain maternal health conditions (such as active infection or cardiac or respiratory disease). Some births are planned as elective cesareans rather than performed during labor, while others are emergencies.

The procedure is typically performed under regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural) or, less commonly, general anesthesia. The most common incision is a low transverse cut in the lower abdomen, followed by a uterine incision through which the baby is delivered. After birth, the placenta is removed and the uterus is closed with sutures. Hospital stay varies, but recovery usually requires several days and a full return to normal activities can take about four to six weeks.

Risks for the mother include infection, hemorrhage, injury to surrounding organs, and complications from anesthesia. For the baby, there is a risk of transient breathing difficulties. Future pregnancies face higher risks of placenta accreta and uterine rupture. Cesarean rates vary by country and healthcare setting.