Check firstCheck with your care teamTest or decision

Caesarean or c-section birth

A planned or unplanned caesarean is major surgery as well as a birth; preparation should include the reason, anaesthesia, support, recovery and newborn contact.

Direct guidance

What to know or do

Ask what happens before, during and after surgery, how pain and clot prevention are managed, and what wound or recovery symptoms need contact.

What changes the answer

  • Whether this is screening, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment or birth planning
  • Pregnancy week, previous results and what the result could change
  • Benefits, limits, alternatives, follow-up and the time available to decide

Check with your care team

When to get individual help

Check the exact item or situation with a doctor, midwife, pharmacist or relevant clinician; the name of a broad category is not enough for a personal decision.