Cesarean Delivery, commonly known as C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. It is performed when a normal vaginal delivery may pose risks to the mother or baby, or when medical conditions make surgery the safer option. Modern medical techniques have made cesarean delivery a safe and widely practiced procedure worldwide.

A C-section may be planned (elective) or performed in an emergency. Planned cesareans are usually recommended when the mother has conditions such as placenta previa, breech presentation, previous multiple C-sections, or certain health issues like heart disease or high-risk pregnancies. Emergency C-sections are performed when unexpected complications arise during labor, such as fetal distress, umbilical cord problems, prolonged labor, or failure of the cervix to dilate.

During the procedure, anesthesia—usually spinal or epidural—is given so the mother stays awake but feels no pain. The surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen, followed by a second incision in the uterus. The baby is gently lifted out, the umbilical cord is cut, and the placenta is removed. After the surgery, the incisions are closed with stitches.

Recovery from a cesarean delivery typically takes longer than from a normal vaginal delivery. Mothers may experience pain at the incision site, limited mobility, and fatigue for several days. Hospital stay is usually 2–4 days. Full recovery may take 4–6 weeks. Proper rest, avoiding heavy lifting, and taking medications as prescribed help in faster healing. Breastfeeding is encouraged soon after birth, and most mothers can nurse comfortably with support.