Julius Caesar is not the reason why the term cesarean births was titled so. That’s right ladies. While it remains debatable till date as to why it is  called as a Caesarean section, let’s understand what happens during a C-section.

What is a c section birth?

A cesarean delivery is when the baby is delivered through an incision given on the mother’s  belly and uterus. It is often referred to as a C section. In most cases, the woman is conscious during a cesarean operation.

If you are a pregnant woman going into labor, chances are that you would be  delivering the baby through the vaginal canal. But in some cases, a cesarean section is needed for the safety of the mother and the baby. So even if you are scheduled for a vaginal birth, it is always good to know something about c sections, in case something unexpected happens.

What happens during a c section procedure?

C section operations are mostly performed under epidural or spinal anesthesia, which is used to numb the skin from the waist down. Only in certain conditions or during an emergency, general anesthesia is used. The hospital sends instructions which you need to follow to get ready before your surgery is scheduled.

In the operating room, your arms are secured to the table and a sedative is passed through the intravenous drip attached to your hand. A catheter is inserted into your bladder to collect urine passed during and after the surgery. The abdominal and pubic area are shaved and then washed with an antibacterial solution. After the anesthesia begins to show its effects, the surgeon makes the c section cut on the lower abdomen and uterus. After the baby is delivered through the incision, the doctor removes the placenta and closes both incisions with stitches.

Immediately after the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for further observation and moved further into the hospital room for the next 3 to 4 days.

Your nurse will explain everything that is needed for your full recovery along with special instructions from your doctor.

Disclaimer: The information in the article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor.

Also read: On Your Road to Postpartum Recovery – Surgical Birth

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