Caesarean birth
Why a caesarean may be needed, what happens on the day, and how recovery usually goes.
- A caesarean may be planned or decided during labour
- Most are done under a spinal anaesthetic, so you are awake
- Early walking helps recovery and prevents clots
- Breastfeeding is possible and usually needs a little positioning help
A caesarean section is an operation to deliver the baby through a cut in the abdomen and womb. It may be planned in advance, for example if the baby is lying sideways or the placenta is low, or it may be decided during labour if labour is not progressing or the baby or mother needs to be delivered quickly.
Most caesareans are done with a spinal anaesthetic, so you are awake but numb from the chest down, and you can usually hold your baby soon afterwards. A general anaesthetic is used in some emergencies.
Afterwards you will have pain medicine, a drip and often a urinary catheter for a short while. Getting up and walking as soon as you are allowed helps prevent blood clots and helps your bowels. Most women stay in hospital about two to four days and are advised to avoid heavy lifting and driving for several weeks.
Breastfeeding after a caesarean works well — ask for help finding positions that keep pressure off your wound.
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain or discharge from the wound
- Fever above 38 °C
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or large clots
- Calf pain or swelling, chest pain or breathlessness
- A wound that opens
Go back to your facility the same day if you have any of these signs after a caesarean.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.