When you have a c-section, your doctor makes an incision in your abdomen and uterus and removes the baby through it. The procedure is performed in an operating room.
Your husband or partner can be with you during the preparation and for the birth. Only when your c-section is a real emergency, or if you need a general anesthetic, will your partner be asked to leave. This is not often the case.
A c-section is done with an epidural or spinal block so you can be awake and see your baby immediately after the birth. You will have a catheter inserted to drain your bladder, and a drip in your arm or hand to give extra fluids or pain relief if needed. You may also have a heart monitor on.
A screen will be put up while the procedure is taking place. Some partners like to peek over the screen but others prefer not to see what is happening. You may like your doctor to tell you what he is doing, so that you know the minute your baby is born.
When the epidural is doing its work, the doctor makes a small horizontal incision in your skin above your pubic bone, and then makes a cut in the lower section of your uterus. Then your baby is lifted out, this only takes a few minutes. Your baby will be quickly checked and then shown to you.
If your baby is very small or unwell he or she may need to go straight to the special care unit. Otherwise your partner can hold him while the placenta is delivered and you are stitched up. This all can take as little as half an hour.
