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How is a caesarean performed?

A caesarean operation involves a 10-15cm incision (cut) made either laterally ('bikini line') or vertically through the layers of skin, fat and muscle of the abdomen to reach your uterus. Before the operation, you will be given a regional anesthetic (usually an epidural), which will numb the abdomen and legs. This allows you to be awake during the procedure, but not feel any pain. Your baby and placenta will be gently lifted out of the uterus by hand or with forceps. The umbilical cord will be clamped and cut and your wound will then be stitched up and dressed.

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About this article

Author: Dr Nikki Wallis PhD, BSc
First answered: 27 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 310 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Labor

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