Is this topic for you? What is a cesarean section? A cesarean
section is the delivery of a baby through a cut (incision) in
the mother's belly and uterus. It is often called a C-section.
In most cases, a woman can be awake during the birth and be with
her newborn soon afterward. See a picture of a delivery by
C-section. If you are pregnant, chances are good that you will
be able to deliver your baby through the birth canal (vaginal
birth). But there are cases when a C-section is needed for the
safety of the mother or baby. So even if you plan on a vaginal
birth, it's a good idea to learn about C-section, in case the
unexpected happens. When is a C-section needed? A C-section may
be planned or unplanned. In most cases, doctors do cesarean
sections because of problems that arise during labor. Reasons
you might need an unplanned C-section include: When doctors know
about a problem ahead of time, they may schedule a C-section.
Reasons you might have a planned C-section include: In some
cases, a woman who had a C-