Different Types of Caesarean Sections: What You Need To Know
Having a baby is an amazing journey, but sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. No worries though, because having a C-section can make for a really positive experience.
There are C-sections you can plan, and there are those you might need if your labour is not progressing quite as you'd hoped. But don't fret, the team here at C-section UK are here to tell you all about it and help you to feel supported through this journey!
What are the different types of caesarean sections?
A C-section is a surgical procedure to deliver your baby. There are two types of C-sections that you should know about.
Planned caesarean section (elective)
First up, we have the planned C-section. You get to schedule the date and time (within a certain window of pregnancy) for your baby's arrival, and everything is all planned out in advance.
It's like a fancy birth party where you get to be the star!
You get to choose whether you want to be put to sleep or have a numbing epidural or spinal anaesthesia so you won't feel any pain throughout the surgery!
Once you're all done, you and your bundle of joy can still enjoy some amazing bonding time with skin-to-skin contact.
Planned caesarean section key facts
Usually a scheduled procedure, unlike an emergency one.
Recovery from a C-section can mean a longer hospital stay, but that has its perks in terms of having your baby all to yourself and getting lots of extra help from the lovely midwives.
C-section births can be wonderfully calm and relaxing (and you can even request to play some music).
You can still have skin-to-skin contact with your baby if you have a C-section, and breastfeeding is still 100% still possible.
Reasons why people elect to give birth through a planned caesarean
Tokophobia (fear of pregnancy/childbirth).
Prior difficult birth (physically or emotionally).
Previous c-section
Medical factors.
Personal preference, religion or cultural values
Whatever the case, the team here at CSUK are here to support you every step of the way! We are passionate about making sure you have the best birth experience possible.
Unplanned caesarean section (emergency)
If you or your little one face some unexpected challenges during pregnancy, labour or delivery, you might need an unplanned C-section.
Unplanned caesarean section key facts
They can be super-quick if the situation is urgent or they can be fairly relaxed if it's non-urgent.
You or your baby might sometimes need more monitoring and care in the hospital, especially if some complications during pregnancy, labour or birth occur.
Reasons why you may require an emergency caesarean
- If your little one is feeling a bit stressed out during labour
- If you've got placenta praevia
- In the rare case of cord prolapse (the cord is coming before the baby)
- If labour is progressing a bit slowly
- If your little one is a bit on the smaller side
- If you're experiencing any bleeding before or during labour
What is the difference between an emergency and a planned caesarean?
The main difference between a planned and emergency caesarean is the urgency.
Emergency C-sections are only done when there is an immediate safety concern, whereas planned ones are scheduled in advance.
Although emergency C-sections can be stressful, your healthcare professionals will talk you through what's going to happen as they prepare you for the surgery.
What are the types of caesarean section incisions?
There are three main types of incisions used in a C-section surgery:
- Vertical or classical incision
- Transverse or lower segment incision
- T-shaped or inverted T incision
Vertical or classical incision
This incision is made vertically through the midline of the abdomen and is sometimes called a classical incision. It is usually used when there are complications like if your baby is coming very early, or if your baby has specific medical conditions or if you have a uniquely designed womb!
Transverse or lower segment incision
This incision is made horizontally across the lower part of the abdomen, just above the pubic hairline. It is the most common type of incision used in C-section surgeries. It’s usually in the shape of a smiling face, which is just perfect for the birth of your beautiful little baby.
T-shaped or inverted T incision
The T-shaped incision is a combination of the vertical and transverse incisions. It is typically used if you have an obstructing fibroid so that it can be removed at the time of your C-section.
Useful Caesarean Section Resources
NHS: The National Health Service website is a great resource for information on C-sections in the UK. It provides detailed information on the procedure, the reasons why it may be needed, and the risks and benefits associated with it.
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists: The RCOG is a professional body that provides guidance and support to obstetricians and gynaecologists in the UK. Their website has a range of resources on C-sections, including patient information leaflets and clinical guidelines.
Birthrights: Birthrights is a UK-based charity that aims to promote human rights in childbirth. Their website has a range of resources on C-sections, including information on consent, patient rights, and the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Tommy's: Tommy's is a charity that funds research into pregnancy complications and provides information and support to parents. Their website has a section on C-sections, which includes information on when they may be needed and what to expect during and after the procedure.
NCT: The National Childbirth Trust is a charity that provides information and support to expectant and new parents. Their website has a section on C-sections, which includes information on the different types of C-sections, recovery after the procedure, and tips for preparing for a C-section.
Key takeaways
When it comes to bringing your baby into the world, considering the options are important.
If you need an emergency C-section for whatever reason, it is performed in a timely and efficient manner, to ensure the well-being of you and your gorgeous baby.
An elective C-section is usually scheduled ahead of time. This is recommended for medical reasons, such as if the baby is breech or if vaginal delivery could be dangerous due to the mother's health condition.
You can help yourself get prepared in advance, to have all your bases covered by investing in our prep, birth and recovery courses. The courses we offer are designed specifically by real midwives to educate you.
Written by: Midwife Laura