A Caesarean section, commonly called a C-section, is an operation in which a baby is delivered through surgical cuts made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.
It may be planned in advance or carried out as an emergency when a vaginal birth is considered unsafe for the mother or baby. Doctors may recommend a C-section for several reasons, including a baby being in a breech position, problems with the placenta, prolonged or stalled labour, changes in the baby’s heart rate or certain maternal health conditions.
A C-section is major surgery, so healthcare professionals weigh its benefits and risks before recommending it.
What happens during the operation
Most C-sections are performed using spinal or epidural anaesthesia. This numbs the lower part of the body while allowing the mother to remain awake during the birth.
A general anaesthetic, which puts the mother to sleep, may be used in some circumstances, particularly when the baby needs to be delivered quickly or regional anaesthesia cannot be used.
During the operation, the surgeon makes an incision, usually across the lower abdomen, and then opens the uterus to deliver the baby. The baby is normally delivered within the first few minutes of the operation.
After the baby is delivered, the placenta is removed and the incisions are closed with stitches. The entire procedure usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes, although this can vary depending on the circumstances.
The mother is then moved to a recovery area, where medical staff monitor her condition. Pain relief is provided, and measures may be taken to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Recovery after a C-section
Recovery generally takes longer than after an uncomplicated vaginal birth.
Most women stay in hospital for about one to two days when there are no complications, although the length of stay can vary. During this period, healthcare staff monitor the wound, provide pain relief and encourage the mother to begin moving around when it is safe. Breastfeeding can also begin soon after delivery if the mother chooses to breastfeed.
After going home, discomfort, tiredness and vaginal bleeding can occur. The bleeding is not caused by the C-section itself but is part of the normal postpartum process as the body recovers from pregnancy and childbirth. It can continue for several weeks and gradually become lighter.
The surgical wound also needs to be kept clean and monitored. Increasing redness, swelling, severe pain, pus or foul-smelling discharge from the wound, fever, heavy vaginal bleeding, shortness of breath or pain and swelling in the leg can require prompt medical attention because they may indicate complications such as infection or a blood clot.
Returning to normal activities
Women recovering from a C-section are generally advised to rest while gradually increasing their activity. Gentle movement, such as walking, is encouraged during recovery, while strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided until a healthcare professional advises that it is safe.
The wound will leave a scar, which usually becomes less noticeable over time. Some women may continue to experience discomfort around the incision for several weeks as the tissues heal.
A postpartum check-up is also important. Ongoing postpartum care can include assessing physical recovery, mental wellbeing, feeding, contraception and other concerns arising after childbirth.
A previous C-section does not automatically mean that every future baby must be delivered by C-section. Many women can have a vaginal birth after a previous C-section, although the safest option depends on the individual’s medical history and circumstances.
Because a Caesarean section is major surgery, anyone who is considering or has been advised to have one should discuss the reasons, benefits, risks and available alternatives with their doctor or midwife.
