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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Cesarean delivery — also known as a C-section — is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen and a second incision in the mother's uterus.

A C-section might be planned ahead of time if you develop pregnancy complications or you've had a previous C-section and aren't considering vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Often, however, the need for a first-time C-section doesn't become obvious until labor is under way.

If you're pregnant, knowing what to expect during a C-section — both during the procedure and afterward — can help you prepare.

Why it's done
References
  1. Berghella V. Cesarean delivery: Preoperative issues. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  2. Grant GJ. Anesthesia for cesarean delivery. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  3. Berghella V. Cesarean delivery: Technique. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  4. Berghella V. Cesarean delivery: Postoperative issues. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  5. Norwitz ER. Cesarean delivery on maternal request. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  6. Berens P. Overview of postpartum care. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  7. About Cesarean childbirth. American College of Surgeons. http://www.facs.org/public_info/operation/aboutbroch.html. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  8. Cesarean birth. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/Search?Keyword=cesarean+section. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  9. Lusskin SI, et al. Postpartum blues and depression. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed March 2, 2012.
  10. Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 22, 2012.
MY00214 June 12, 2012

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