What is a caesarean section and what are the different types?

Verified and reviewed by: Midwife Maria Midstam 

A caesarean section is a type of birth that involves removing the baby from the mother's womb through a surgical procedure, usually when a vaginal birth is not possible. Here we help you find out what a caesarean section is, what the different types of caesarean sections are and what the post-operative period involves!

What is a caesarean section?

One caesarean section is a surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered through an incision in abdominal wall and uterus. The procedure is performed when a vaginal delivery is not possible or safe.
Common causes may include:

• Fetal position (e.g., seat reservation)
• Previous cesarean section
• Medical risks for mother or child
• Complications during childbirth

The operation usually takes 30–60 minutes, and the baby is often born within the first 5 minutes.

Types of cesarean sections

Planned caesarean section

In the case of a planned section you know in advance that the baby will be delivered by surgery. The mother is awake, may spinal anesthesia, and partners or relatives may attend.
Common causes:

• Seating arrangement
• Medical reasons that make vaginal delivery unsuitable
• Previously complicated incision

Acute caesarean section

One emergency caesarean section occurs if something unexpected happens during childbirth, for example:

• The labor is not progressing
• The child shows signs of stress (e.g., low heart rate)

Partners are usually allowed to be present even during emergency cesarean sections.

Immediate caesarean section

This is done immediately when the child needs to go out very quickly, for example in the case of imminent danger for the life of the child or mother.
In the case of an immediate incision, the mother usually sedated, and the partner has to wait outside.

You might also be interested in: Guide: Time after a caesarean section