C-Section Delivery

Whether you’re planning a vaginal birth or you know a cesarean delivery (C-section) may be needed, Banner Health is here to support you and your baby. Our maternity teams focus on safety, comfort and helping you feel confident throughout your labor and birth experience. 

What is a C-section? 

A C-section is a surgical procedure where your doctor delivers your baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. It may be planned ahead of time or performed during labor if vaginal birth becomes unsafe for you or your baby. 

A gentler approach to cesarean birth 

Some Banner locations offer a gentle C-section option. This approach supports early skin-to-skin contact, a slower delivery pace and family-centered care whenever possible. 

Why a C-section might be recommended 

C-sections are performed for many medical reasons to protect the health of both mother and baby. Your doctor may recommend a C-section if you have: 

Conditions that affect labor progress 

• Labor that stalls or does not progress 
• Cervical dilation that stops despite strong contractions 

Concerns about baby’s safety 

• Abnormal fetal heart rate or fetal distress 
• Breech or other non-head-down positions 
• Multiple babies (twins, triplets) 

Maternal health conditions 

• Placenta previa 
• Preeclampsia or high blood pressure disorders 
• Gestational diabetes 
• A large baby (macrosomia) 

Prior surgeries 

• Previous C-section or uterine surgery that makes vaginal birth riskier 

Your care team will discuss all recommendations openly so you can make informed decisions. 

Preparing for a planned C-section 

If your C-section is scheduled, your health care team will give you instructions to help your surgery and recovery go smoothly. 

Steps to take before surgery 

• Shower as directed, often with an antiseptic wash 
• Avoid shaving the incision area 
• Follow all fasting instructions 
• Review medications with your doctor 
• Attend anesthesia and pre-operative evaluations 

What to expect during a C-section 

How the procedure works 

A C-section typically takes about one hour. The baby is usually delivered within the first 10–15 minutes. You’ll receive anesthesia so you’re comfortable and awake unless general anesthesia is needed. 

During the procedure, your doctor: 

• Makes an incision across the lower abdomen 
• Opens the uterus 
• Delivers the baby and placenta 
• Closes the incisions with stitches 

Your baby is then assessed and brought to you for skin-to-skin contact when possible. 

What to expect after surgery 

Immediate recovery 

You will spend time in a recovery area where your heart rate, bleeding and incision are monitored. Your baby will stay with you as much as possible. 

Early bonding and feeding 

Your care team supports early breastfeeding and bonding, even after surgical birth. 

Risks of a C-section 

A C-section is major surgery, so risks are higher than with vaginal birth. 

Possible risks for the mother 

• Infection 
• Excessive bleeding 
• Blood clots 
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia 
• Longer hospital stay and recovery 
• Risks in future pregnancies (such as placenta accreta) 

Possible risks for the baby 

• Temporary breathing problems 
• Delayed skin-to-skin contact in some cases 

Your team will review your individual risks and answer questions. 

Recovery after a C-section 

Healing at home 

Recovery usually takes several weeks. Expect: 

• A 2 to 4-day hospital stay 
• Incision care instructions 
• Pain relief strategies 
• Limits on driving, lifting and intense activity 

Learn more about C-section aftercare. 

When to call your doctor 

Seek care right away for fever, heavy bleeding, worsening pain, redness or drainage at the incision, or leg swelling. 

Making a birth plan that fits your needs 

Your birth experience is unique. Whether you are considering a C-section, hoping for a vaginal birth or exploring a VBAC, our maternity specialists work with you to help create a safe and personal plan. 

Find maternity care at Banner Health 

Banner Health offers family-centered labor and birth services at locations across the region, including private birthing suites, lactation support and advanced neonatal care. 

Find a maternity hospital or OB-GYN near you to start planning your delivery.