A cesarean section, or C-section, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through a surgical incision made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.

While most women give birth naturally, without any need for surgical intervention, an estimated one-third of all deliveries in the United States are performed via C-section. Whether you’re planning a C-section or just preparing for the possibility, here’s what you can expect during pregnancy, the procedure itself, and the recovery period that follows.

Pregnancy and C-Section Preparation

If your doctor determines that a C-section delivery is necessary for you and your baby, you may have some time to prepare depending on your individual circumstances. Some factors that could lead to a C-section include, but not limited to:.

Large baby
Breech presentation (feet, rather than head, positioned to come out first)
Placenta previa (placenta covering cervix)
Fetal distress (baby’s heart rate drops during delivery)
Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.)
Previous C-section delivery

Your doctor will explain why a C-section is necessary for your health and the health of your baby and will also help you prepare for the procedure itself.

You may also want to consider talking to other mothers who have undergone C-sections, attending childbirth classes, or reading books to learn more about the process. Your preparation may include:.

A physical exam (including blood pressure and heart rate measurement)
Ultrasound exam to determine the baby’s position and weight
NPO instructions, which means you must avoid eating and drinking anything for a certain amount of time before surgery.
An instruction to shower and wash your hair using an antibacterial soap to minimize the risk of infection.
A consultation with an anesthesiologist to discuss your options for pain control during and after surgery (usually, a spinal or epidural anesthesia is performed)
Taking prenatal vitamins with iron to prevent anemia where you will need to combat blood loss during surgery

The C-Section Procedure

During the C-section procedure, you will be placed under anesthesia, which means you will not feel pain or be aware of the procedure that is occurring. Usually, a spinal or epidural anesthesia is performed.

This will numb you from the waist down and prevent you from moving your lower body during the surgery. After the anesthesia is administered, the following steps of the procedure will occur:.

Surgeons will clean your belly with antiseptic and use sterile drapes to create a sterile field.
A horizontal incision will be made in your belly skin just above your pubic hairline. This incision usually reaches about six inches in length, providing a wide enough opening for the baby to be removed without distress or trauma to the mother or child.
The surgeon will then make an incision in the uterus and start the baby’s delivery. This could be by hands or by forceps.
After the baby is delivered, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut.
The placenta is then delivered via the same incision and the surgical incision will be closed through layers of sutures or staples.
You will then be transferred to a recovery room.

Recovery from a C-Section

C-sections are major surgery, and your body will require some time to heal. Generally, you will stay in the hospital for around 2-5 days, depending on the nature of the delivery and your overall health.

After the procedure, you will experience some pain and discomfort, particularly around the incision site. Your doctor will provide you pain medications and will give you instructions on how to care for the incision site. Additionally, you should:.

Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby
Plan to rest frequently and nap when possible
Take stool softeners to avoid constipation
Drink plenty of fluids, and eat a healthy, balanced diet
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that won’t irritate your incision site
Following doctor’s instructions, continue to remind yourself that recovery takes time, but you will improve every day.

C-Section: The Bottom Line

C-sections are a necessity in some deliveries, and while it is considered safe, it is major surgery that involves risks. However, with proper medical care and preparation, you and your baby can make it through a C-section with ease.

Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you are pregnant and want to learn more about the possibility of a C-section, or need to know what to expect during the recovery period.