While we’re pregnant, we often think about what giving birth will be like, especially if it’s for the first time.  Giving birth can be a different experience for everyone, but most likly everyone will go through the same routine.  You can either deliver your baby the natural way, or you can get a C-Section (cesarean section.)  If the doctors think you may have a hard time pushing the baby the canal, they may recommend you get a C-Section.  If you’re curious to know what a C-Section is all about, continue to read below!

What is a C-Section? -

A cesarean section, or c-section, happens when you’re about to give birth.  When you’re in delivery of the baby, the doctor will make a surgical incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.  Sometimes a C-Section is scheduled in advance, but in other cases it can be done if there is a complication with getting the baby out.  C-Sections are common, but aren’t as common as a natural birth.  For example, in 2005 30% of American woman who gave birth, had a C-Section.

Having a planned C-Section –

Sometimes doctors will recommend that you get a C-Section, therefore you will start planning beforehand.  The reasons may be because you’re delivering more than one baby, or you’ve had some kind of invasive uterine surgery, if your baby is in breech, if you have a placenta previa (when the placenta is so low in the uterus that it covers the cervix), and even more reasons.  It isn’t rare to plan a C-Section, there are several reasons for getting one.

Before the C-Section –

Once you’re giving birth, a doctor may recommend that you get a C-Section, and tell you why.  If you agree, you will be asked to sign a consent form.  Depending on whether or not this is a fast paced situation, your significant other can stay in the room with you.  Although, if you need to be put to sleep because of the pain, they more than likely won’t have time to change and stay in the room with you.

How it works –

So, you’re ready to get a C-Section.  How does the process work exactly?  Once you have been given the anesthesia, and it’s taking effect, your baby will be rubbed with an antiseptic.  Then, the doctor will most likely make a a small, horizontal incision above your pubic bone. 

Once they make the incision, the doctor will work on cutting through tissues to get to your uterus.  When the doctor reaches your uterus, they’ll probably make a horizontal cut in the lower section of it.  This is known to be a “transverse incision.”

Once they have clearly made it inside your uterus, the doctor will pull out your baby.  As the staff is examining your baby to make sure everything is okay, the doctor will work on closing you back up. 

Getting a C-Section may sound a little frightening, but really, it is pretty common.  It may take more time to heal this way, but at least your baby is out, safe, and healthy.  So, ask your doctor what they recommend for your birth, and if they say a C-Section, read over this information to inform yourself a head of time!