In the past 40 years, the rate of cesarean (C-section) deliveries has jumped from about 1 out of 20 births to about 1 out of 3 births.1 This trend has caused experts to worry that C-sections are being done more often than needed.
Because of the risks of C-section, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that planned C-sections generally be done only for medical reasons. It also recommends that if a C-section is planned, it should be done at 39 weeks or later in the pregnancy.
But some women and their partners have personal reasons for wanting to schedule their baby's birth.
If you're thinking of having a C-section for personal reasons, it's important to weigh what you want against the risks. You may want to talk to your doctor about reasons for and against a planned C-section.
What is a C-section?
A C-section is the delivery of a baby through a cut (incision) in the mother's belly and uterus.
Most C-sections are unplanned. They are done because of problems that occur during labor. These problems might include:
Labor that slows or stops.
High blood pressure or other problems for the mother.
Signs of distress in the baby. These signs may include a very fast or slow heart rate.
What are the risks of a C-section?
Although most mothers and babies do well after C-section, it is major surgery. It has more risks than a vaginal delivery. The risks of C-section include:
Infection of the incision or the uterus.
Heavy blood loss.
Injury to the mother or baby.
Problems from the anesthesia. These may include nausea, vomiting, and a bad headache.
Breathing problems in the baby if he or she was delivered before the due date.
A longer hospital stay than after a vaginal birth.
Risks for a future pregnancy. A woman who has had a C-section has a small risk of the scar tearing open during labor if she has a vaginal birth. She also has a slightly higher risk of a problem with the placenta, such as placenta previa.
