What is the procedure for a cesarean?

Some of these may go in a different order, and a few left out, but these are the basics:

  • A catheter inserted to collect urine
  • An intravenous line inserted
  • An antacid for your stomach acids
  • Monitoring leads (heart monitor, blood pressure)
  • Anesthesia
  • Anti-bacterial wash of the abdomen, and partial shaving of the pubic hair
  • Skin Incision (vertical or midline(most common))
  • Uterine Incision
  • Breaking the Bag of Waters
  • Disengage the baby from the pelvis
  • Birth (Accomplished by hand, forceps, or vacuum extractor)
  • Cord Clamping and cutting
  • Newborn Evaluation
  • Placenta removed and the uterus repaired
  • Skin Sutured (Usually the top layers will be stapled and removed within 2 weeks.)
  • You will be moved to the Recovery Room (If the baby is able s/he can go with you.)