Caesarean section, also known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure performed to deliver a baby. The word "caesarean" is derived from the Latin word "caesus," meaning "cut," and refers to the surgical incision made in the mother's abdomen and uterus during the procedure. The correct spelling is "caesarean" or "cesarean" in American English, with the IPA phonetic transcription /sɪˈzɛrɪən/. The word can be difficult to spell due to its unusual combination of vowels and consonants.
A Caesarean section, commonly referred to as a C-section, is a surgical procedure performed in obstetrics to deliver a baby. It involves making an incision through the abdominal wall and uterus of the mother to remove the baby. This technique is generally employed when vaginal birth poses risks to the mother or the baby, or when a normal vaginal delivery is not possible.
During a Caesarean section, the mother is given anesthesia, which can be either regional anesthesia (epidural or spinal) or general anesthesia. The surgical team then makes an incision in the lower abdomen, typically horizontally across the pubic hairline, although a vertical incision may be necessary in certain circumstances. The abdominal muscles are then separated, and another incision is made in the lower part of the uterus, allowing the baby to be safely extracted. Following the baby's delivery, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, and the placenta is then removed from the uterus. The incisions in both the uterus and abdomen are then carefully closed.
Caesarean sections may be planned in advance due to known risks or complications, or they may be performed as an emergency procedure if unforeseen complications arise during childbirth. Common reasons for performing a C-section include a breech baby, multiple pregnancies, maternal health concerns, fetal distress, abnormal positioning of the placenta, or a previous C-section that may increase the risk of complications. Despite being a major surgical procedure, advancements in medical technology and expertise have made Caesarean sections generally safe and routine, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.
The term Caesarean section is derived from the Latin phrase sectio caesarea, which means to cut or to bring forth. The word Caesarean is believed to be associated with Gaius Julius Caesar, the Roman general and emperor. According to a popular but likely apocryphal story, Caesar was born by this surgical procedure. However, historical evidence suggests that his mother may have died during childbirth, making it unlikely that he himself was born via Caesarean section. Nonetheless, the association with Caesar led to the term being coined as Caesarean section.