A Cesarean section, also called a C-section, is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby via incisions made in the abdomen and uterus. This procedure is performed when a vaginal delivery is not safe or possible for you, baby, or both.
C-sections are a common procedure, with about 32% of births performed by C-sections in the United States.
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You and your Moreland OB-GYN may plan a C-section if you have certain medical conditions or you may undergo an unplanned (emergency) C-section if complications arise during vaginal labor.
Your obstetrician may recommend a C-section if you or your baby are experiencing any of the following medical conditions:
If unexpected problems occur during labor for a planned vaginal delivery, you may need an unplanned C-section. These problems include:
If you’ve planned a C-section, you can expect the following steps before the procedure:
If an emergency occurs, there may be little time for preparation. In urgent situations, the anesthesiologist may administer general anesthesia (go to sleep), which acts faster to deliver your baby as quickly and safely as possible.
Here’s what to expect during a C-section procedure:
Because you will be under anesthesia, you shouldn’t feel any pain. Most people feel a tug or pull when their baby is pulled from their abdomen. If you are feeling any discomfort or pain, be sure to let your care team know.
A planned C-section procedure can take about 45 minutes, with about 15 minutes for the birthing process and the remaining time spent closing the incision. If you are awake for your C-section procedure, you will be able to see and hold your baby shortly after birth.
Preparing for birth can be exciting — but it can also feel a little nerve-wracking. That’s why our Moreland Pregnancy Navigators are here to guide you, support you, and answer any questions you have.
In most cases, your partner can be in the room with you during a C-section, especially if it’s a planned procedure. Hospitals and birth centers typically allow one support person to be present: your partner, a family member, or a close friend.
Your partner is usually seated near your head, behind the sterile curtain, alongside the anesthesiologist and nursing staff. They can hold your hand, talk to you, and offer emotional support throughout the surgery. After your baby is born, your partner may be able to take photos (if allowed) and participate in early bonding moments, like holding the baby or accompanying the baby to the nursery if needed.
In urgent situations where speed and sterility are critical or if you go to sleep under general anesthesia, your partner might be asked to wait outside until the baby is delivered.
Recovering from a C-section takes time and patience. Since a C-section is major abdominal surgery, your body will need several weeks to heal fully.
In the Hospital:
At Home:
Once you’re discharged, full recovery can take about 6 to 8 weeks. During this time:
Tips for a Smoother Recovery:
You can expect some scarring after your C-section, though how much depends on how your body heals. Sometimes, the scar is barely visible, but women develop thick, irregular, raised scars at the incision site—these are harmless. If you feel self-conscious about scarring, you can discuss ways to minimize scarring with your care team.
Most doctors encourage avoiding heavy, lifting, exercise, and other strenuous activities for at least 4 to 6 weeks following birth. During this time, you should not lift anything heavier than your baby but are encouraged to move around as much as possible to avoid developing blood clots. Doctors also recommend you not have sex for at least six weeks after birth.
Attending your follow-up appointments after your C-section allows your obstetrician to monitor your healing progress and detect any complications early.
Your emotional well-being is just as crucial after birth as your physical well-being. Birth is a whole-body and mind experience, and the changes a woman goes through don't end once her baby is born. It's natural to have feelings about undergoing surgery—planned or unplanned—and to experience exhaustion and overwhelming emotions in the weeks, and sometimes months, after birth.
If you’re having trouble eating, sleeping, bonding with your baby, or feeling overwhelming emotions like sadness or anxiety, talk to your care team right away. You could be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety.
To learn more about what to expect after giving birth and support resources, check out our page on postpartum care!
Like vaginal delivery, you can usually begin breastfeeding shortly after a C-section delivery. You may even start in the recovery room. The hospital nurses or lactation consultants will walk you through a few different positions you can try to avoid putting pressure on your incision during breastfeeding.
Check out these 10 tips for breastfeeding success.
While there are some risks, many women can safely have a vaginal birth after a C-section (VBAC). Your healthcare provider will review the details of your previous cesarean and current pregnancy. Together, you’ll discuss the risks and benefits of attempting a VBAC versus having another cesarean, and decide on the best option for your individual situation.
The most significant risk associated with a VBAC is a uterine rupture. This occurs when the pressure of labor causes the scar from a previous C-section to tear, potentially leading to internal bleeding and pain for you, and distress for your baby. Uterine scars from vertical incisions (known as a classical cesarean) are less able to withstand the force of contractions, so a repeat C-section is typically recommended in those cases. While a uterine rupture can be life-threatening for both mother and baby, it is extremely rare.
Interested in having a vaginal birth after a C-section? Check out our blog on how to talk with your healthcare provider about a VBAC birth plan.
Giving birth is a life-changing experience for you and your baby. Moreland OB-GYN is here to answer all your questions about C-section procedures and the overall birthing process. Our Moreland Pregnancy Navigator (MPN) nurses and the rest of our trusted healthcare providers are all available to ensure your pregnancy is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Whether you're preparing for a planned C-section, want to understand your delivery options better, or have questions about your pregnancy journey, our team at Moreland OB-GYN is here to support you every step of the way.
