The caesarean delivery, also known as a C-section was originally developed to save babies and mother’s lives when one of them were unable to safely go through a Vaginal Delivery. A caesarean delivery is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision in a mother’s abdomen. Some C-sections are planned due to pregnancy complications or because there had been a previous C-section. In some cases, the need for a first-time C-section doesn't become obvious until labor has already started. In its early days there were high risks for the newborn and the mom and it was only performed when absolutely necessary. Modern technology has made it safer for both.

The caesarean delivery is still performed for medical reasons but it has expanded and is performed as a convenience. Some risks to newborn and mom still exist, but are often downplayed so that parents are comfortable with choosing a caesarean as a convenience. A caesarean is a surgery with risks. It contributes to the high infant mortality rate of the US when compared to other countries’ infant mortality rate that are technologically as developed as the US.

There are considerable added costs to a surgical delivery compared to a vaginal delivery. Some wonder if the added income contributes to parents being encouraged to have caesarean births. Though there are malpractice risks with a caesarean and more risks to newborn and mom, some doctors feel they will have a lower chance of being sued by performing a caesarean too soon than not performing a caesarean soon enough.

A caesarean birth decision should not be made for the convenience of doctors or parents. It should not be decided based on malpractice risks. It should only be done when clearly medically needed.

Women who have a vaginal delivery suffer from postpartum depression less often than women who have a caesarean delivery. This is expected and can be prevented just by being aware of it, talking about the birth with a trusted friend or health care professional, and focusing on the outcome…a healthy baby and mom. Though the time to bond after the birth is very important, there is a lifetime ahead to create precious memories and moments with a child. It is OK to mourn not having the birth experience you wanted, but keep things in perspective. A few lost hours or days of bonding shouldn’t interfere with all the weeks, months, and years ahead for you and your new son or daughter.

Since some caesarean births are unplanned, when developing your birthing plan with your doctor or midwife, have an emergency plan that includes a caesarean birth plan. Have enough information that you will be comfortable in the event it becomes necessary.

There is additional healing time and wound care that will be needed with a caesarean birth. Get all the help you can to assure that you heal up as quickly as possible. Overdoing it will just delay your recovery from the surgery.

Labor and Birth