Tahseen is in her eighth month of pregnancy. Her best friend just had a baby and underwent a cesarean section. Tahseen is very keen on having a normal delivery. She wants to know if there is anyway she can ensure that.

What is a cesarean section?

A cesarean section is an abdominal operation performed to deliver a baby when vaginal delivery is not possible or safe. The doctor makes a cut in the mother's abdomen and uterus to remove the baby. This procedure is also called a C-section. Cesarean sections can save the lives of newborns and their mothers or prevent the potential complications of a delayed vaginal birth  

In India, the rate of cesarean section has climbed drastically. Recent articles in professional journals have placed the rate as high as 45 %. Health care professionals in India have been alarmed by the rising rate of cesareans and strategies are being designed to decrease these rates.

When is it used?

Elective cesarean section:  

A cesarean section may be performed before labour begins if there are medical reasons for not allowing labour or a vaginal delivery. For example, the health of the mother or the baby may be in danger if the pregnancy continues, or vaginal delivery might be impossible or unsafe. This is called a planned or elective cesarean section.