What everyone should know about C-sections

A Caesarean section, commonly called a C-section, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions made in the mother's abdomen and uterus, rather than through vaginal birth. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a C-section is performed when a vaginal delivery is not possible or would place the health of the mother, the baby, or both at serious risk. The procedure typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists reports that in most cases, the physician makes a horizontal incision of about 4 to 6 inches in the abdomen, at or near the pubic hairline, then makes a second incision in the uterine wall and delivers the baby through that opening. A study published in NCBI notes that although the first documented C-section, performed in AD 1020, resulted in the patient's death, medical advancements have significantly improved the safety and outcomes of the procedure over the centuries. C-sections can be planned in advance for high-risk pregnancies or performed as an emergency when complications arise unexpectedly during labour. According to Unity Point Health, about 20% of the time, labour does not go as planned, which can lead to a C-section.

Nemour's Kids Health illustrates that during the procedure, while the mother feels no pain, she may feel sensations like pulling and pressure as the baby is delivered. Johns Hopkins further explains that after the baby is born, the placenta is delivered, the uterus is stitched, and the abdominal layers are closed one by one. Mothers typically stay in hospitals for two to four days after a C-section.