What Is Involved in a C-Section?
A C-section, or Cesarean section, is a major surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions in a woman's abdomen and uterus. In 2006, more than 31 percent of babies born in the United States were delivered in this manner, according to the National Vital Statistics Report.
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Time Frame
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You should expect up to one hour for the surgery--15 minutes for delivery of the baby and the rest of the time used for delivery of the placenta and closing the incisions.
Preparation Before Surgery
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A nurse will "prep" you by shaving your pubic area and sterilizing the incision site on your abdomen. She also will insert a catheter to your bladder.
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Anesthesia
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An anesthesiologist will insert an epidural into your spinal column to numb your body from the waist down.
Surgery
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The obstetrician will make an incision in the abdomen from the navel to the pubic area. Another incision will be made in the uterus to remove the baby.
Post-Surgery
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Once the baby is delivered, the doctor will remove the placenta and close the incisions with sutures or staples.
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