Whatever the cause for a Caeserean section, and whether or not it is done as an emergency, it is important that you understand the reason(s) why it is being done, and you get clarification from your doctor on any aspect that is unclear to you.

Before the surgery, some tests will be done to check your blood level, heart and kidney functions, and blood clotting function. For an elective surgery, a date will be fixed for a time that the baby is mature enough to be delivered, usually from 37 weeks of gestation. If there is a need to deliver before the baby is old enough, you might be placed on an injection to make the baby’s lungs mature earlier.

For this surgery, you will have the choice of either being put to sleep (general anaesthesia), or being numbed from the waist down (spinal anaesthesia), as long as there are no other medical contraindications involved. Most times, people choose to be awake, so that they can witness the moment the baby is born.

A cut is made on the lower abdomen; below the bikini line, to expose the uterus. The uterus is opened up by making another cut on its lower part, and the surgeon carefully brings the baby out. Immediately the baby is delivered, the umbilical cord is cut and baby is taken aside to be cleaned and resuscitated if necessary. The placenta is then separated from the uterus, and the uterus repaired, before closing up the skin.

A caesarean section lasts for an average of 45 minutes and after the surgery you might experience some pain and abdominal discomfort. There are no contraindications to carrying or breastfeeding your baby because of the Caesarean section alone, and you will be discharged home after four days on admission.

After a Caesarean section, it is advisable to wait for at least six months for the uterus to heal fully before you get pregnant again, so you will need to discuss contraception with your doctor.