Q: What is a cesarean section?
A: A cesarean section (c-section) is the delivery of a baby by surgery through the mother's abdomen. About 1 in 3 babies in the United States is delivered by cesarean section.
A c-section can be a lifesaving operation when either you or your baby face certain problems before or during labor and delivery. Many women who deliver surgically do not expect it. Most cesarean sections go well for both the mother and the baby.
Some health care experts believe that many c-sections are medically unnecessary. A cesarean section is major surgery and should be done only when the health of the mother or baby is at risk.