A caesarean section (c-section or ‘caesarean’) is a surgical procedure in which a baby is born through an incision (cut) made in the mother’s abdominal wall and the wall of the uterus (womb). Your baby will need to be born by caesarean section if there are problems that prevent the baby being born by a normal vaginal birth.
A caesarean section may be planned (elective) if there are signs that a vaginal birth is risky, or unplanned (emergency) if there are problems during labour.
If you have no serious problems with your pregnancy or labour, a vaginal birth is usually the safest way for your baby to be born. Most women have vaginal births (about 2 in every 3 births).
You have a right to be involved in and to make decisions about your care. A caesarean can only be performed if you give your written permission. Your partner or next of kin can give written permission if you are not able to.