Can you choose cesarean

This may occur because of a problem during pregnancy or after a woman has gone into labor, such as if labor is happening too slowly or if the baby is not getting enough oxygen. Some C-sections are considered elective, meaning they are requested before labor.

Someone may choose to have a C-section to plan when to deliver or if they previously had a complicated vaginal delivery. But if someone is eligible for a vaginal delivery, there are not a lot of advantages to having a C-section, said Dr. Although C-sections are generally considered safe and, in some situations, lifesaving, they do carry risks. The procedure is a major surgery and involves opening up the abdomen and removing the baby from the uterus.

Because first-time C-sections often lead to C-sections in future pregnancies, a vaginal birth is generally the preferred method of delivery for first pregnancies.

Topic Overview In the past 40 years, the rate of cesarean C-section deliveries has jumped from about 1 out of 20 births to about 1 out of 3 births.

What is a C-section? A C-section is the delivery of a baby through a cut incision in the mother's belly and uterus. These problems might include: Labor that slows or stops. High blood pressure or other problems for the mother. Signs of distress in the baby. These signs may include a very fast or slow heart rate. Why would a C-section be planned for personal reasons? Some women have personal reasons for wanting a C-section. They may worry that their pain won't be controlled.

They may be concerned that labor will cause pelvic floor problems, such as incontinence. They may worry about vaginal tearing during delivery. They want to be sure that their own doctor delivers the baby, rather than an on-call doctor. They may feel shy or embarrassed about people seeing them giving birth.

It's important to talk openly and honestly with your doctor about your wishes and concerns. What are the risks of a C-section? The risks of C-section include: Infection of the incision or the uterus.

Heavy blood loss. Injury to the mother or baby. Problems from the anesthesia. Can I ask my doctor if I can schedule a C-section? It can be frustrating to wait until your due date to meet your baby. But Cesarean sections or C-sections usually are scheduled for women such as those:. It may be tempting to try to schedule your baby's "birth day" and avoid the uncertainty and pain of labor.

But a C-section is a major surgery and, like any surgery, does come with risks. These include:.