cesarean

A cesarean section, commonly known as a C-section, is a surgical delivery in which a baby is delivered through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It can be planned in advance (elective cesarean) or performed as an emergency procedure when vaginal birth would pose risks to the mother or baby.

Indications for cesarean delivery include placenta previa or placental abruption, fetal distress or abnormal fetal position such as breech, umbilical cord prolapse, prior uterine surgery or other factors that raise the risk of labor, labor that does not progress, maternal infections such as active genital herpes, and certain medical conditions that make vaginal delivery less safe.

The procedure is usually performed under regional anesthesia, such as spinal or epidural. The most common abdominal incision is a low transverse (Pfannenstiel) cut, followed by a uterine incision. After the baby is delivered, the cord is clamped and cut, the placenta is removed, and the uterus and abdominal wall are closed with sutures. Hospital stays commonly last a few days, and full recovery can take several weeks.

Risks and outcomes: compared with planned vaginal birth, cesarean delivery carries higher risks of infection, bleeding, injury to nearby organs, and longer recovery. Newborns may experience transient breathing difficulties. In future pregnancies, the risk of placenta accreta, previa, and uterine rupture is increased. Overall outcomes depend on the indication, urgency, and care received.

Alternatives and history: in eligible pregnancies, birth after cesarean (VBAC) or a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) may be considered. Cesarean delivery has become common worldwide, with rates varying by country and region.