When a C-section may be recommended

• 1

  Fetal distress

  Signs like an abnormal heart rate or reduced oxygen supply during labour.

• 2

  Breech position

  When the baby isn't in a head-down position close to delivery.

• 3

  Placenta previa

  When the placenta covers or is near the cervix.

• 4

  Multiple pregnancy

  Particularly with certain positions or complications.

• 5

  Labour not progressing

  When labour stalls despite adequate time and effort.

• 6

  Other health conditions

  Certain other maternal or fetal health conditions identified during pregnancy or labour.

Types of C-section incisions

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  Horizontal (low transverse) incision

  The most common type, made across the lower abdomen. Heals faster, with less visible scarring and fewer complications.

• 2

  Vertical (classical) incision

  Rarely used today, generally reserved for emergencies requiring the fastest possible delivery.

What to expect during the procedure

For a planned C-section, anesthesia — typically an epidural or spinal block — numbs you from roughly your chest down while you remain awake for the birth. Your partner can usually join you in the operating room. Delivery of the baby itself often takes only 15 to 20 minutes, with a further 45 minutes or so needed to close the uterine and abdominal incisions. While your baby is being checked, the placenta is removed and the incisions are stitched, and antibiotics are given to help prevent infection. Skin-to-skin contact and an early attempt at breastfeeding are encouraged as soon as possible afterward, the same as with vaginal delivery.

Recovery after C-section

• 1

  The first 24 hours

  Pain is managed with medication, and you'll be encouraged to move your legs to support circulation even while mostly resting in bed. Vitals and your surgical wound are checked regularly, and staying well-hydrated is encouraged.

• 2

  Full recovery

  Generally takes about 4 to 6 weeks. Ongoing postnatal care and guidance continue throughout this period, adjusted to how your specific recovery is progressing.

Considerations to discuss with your doctor

• Recovery is generally longer than with vaginal delivery, with more initial discomfort.
• As with any surgery, there's a small chance of complications such as injury to nearby organs.
• Future pregnancies may carry a higher likelihood of certain complications, such as placenta previa in a subsequent pregnancy — worth discussing directly if you're planning more children.

These are factors to understand, not reasons for alarm — C-section is a safe, well-established procedure, and any specific concerns are best discussed directly as part of your care.