Cesarean Delivery (C-Section)
Cesarean Delivery (C-Section)
A cesarean section, also called a c-section, is a surgery used to deliver a baby through an incision in the abdomen and uterus. It is a safe alternative to vaginal delivery. A C-section may be planned or performed during labor if unexpected complications arise that put the mother or baby at risk.
A cesarean birth may be needed for reasons such as:
- Medical complications: Conditions like preeclampsia, diabetes, or placenta previa.
- Baby’s position: Breech or transverse positioning.
- Multiple births: Twin, triplet, or higher-order pregnancies.
- Labor complications: Prolonged labor, if the baby is not tolerating the labor process, or issues with the umbilical cord.
- Previous C-section: A history of cesarean deliveries may necessitate repeat procedures.
UR Medicine's Approach
If a C-section is planned, your healthcare team will provide specific instructions to prepare for the procedure. This may include pre-surgical evaluations, fasting, and medication changes.
The surgery includes:
- Anesthesia—typically a spinal block or epidural
- Incision—a horizontal incision is made across the lower abdomen. The uterus is then opened to deliver the baby.
- Delivery—after the baby is delivered, the umbilical cord is cut, and the placenta is removed.
- Closure—the uterus and abdomen are sutured.
How Long Does a C-Section Take?
The entire procedure typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes.
What Is Recovery from a C-Section Like?
Recovery from a C-section usually takes longer than recovery from vaginal birth. Here's what to expect:
- Hospital stay: Most parents stay for 2 to 3 days.
- Pain management: Medications may be prescribed for incision pain.
- Activity restrictions: Avoid lifting heavy objects or strenuous activity for 6 weeks.
- Follow-up: A post-operative check-up is usually scheduled 2 to 6 weeks after delivery.
Can I have a Vaginal Birth After a C-Section?
Yes, it is possible for many people who had a previous cesarean birth to have a vaginal birth with the next child. Be sure to discuss this with your provider.
What Sets Us Apart?
UR Medicine has everything you need to build a healthy, happy family. With outstanding medical care, comfortable accommodations, and compassionate staff, you'll be in expert hands throughout pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
Our multiple maternity sites are renowned for combining expert medical attention with helpful amenities and nurturing caregivers. Our Obstetrics and Gynecology Division is ranked among the top 25 in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Our providers are board-certified experts in complex family planning care. We have all the providers, facilities, and expertise to guide you through any prenatal or post-natal needs.
Strong Beginnings Offerings
A blue surgical drape with an option to uncover a clear panel for a better view of birth.
Strong Beginnings has introduced a special surgical drape with a clear panel behind the standard blue drape. This clear drape window lets parents see their baby emerge into the world from the moment of birth.
In the past, individuals having cesareans were draped with a solid blue surgical drape. They could only see their baby after it was lifted above the drape. With our new drape, the mother and her support person can see through the drape to watch the baby’s birth.
The clear surgical drape has earned very positive feedback from our patients. Families feel more connected to their baby’s birth by viewing it in real time, together.
For families that don’t desire this option, the panel can remain covered for the surgery to prevent viewing of the operative field.
Immediate skin-to-skin contact after a cesarean.
“Skin-to-skin” is the practice of placing the baby directly on the parent's chest after birth. The direct contact reassures the baby, helps regulate body temperature blood sugar, breathing, and heart rate while also helping with initiating breastfeeding.
Strong Beginnings has changed its cesarean protocols to make skin-to-skin contact a priority. These new protocols enable families to stay together right from birth—provided both the birth parent and newborn are stable.
Cesarean deliveries will always be necessary for some individuals. But these changes are an exciting way to improve the experience of birth.