What is involved when performing a cesarean section?
A cesarean section involves delivering the baby through an incision in the abdomen. Two types of incision can be made, either a vertical incision from the top of the pubic bone to the navel, or a horizontal incision about two finger widths above pubic bone of the same length. The second type of incision is popularly known as the “bikini cut”. The abdominal muscles are separated, and the abdominal lining, the peritoneum is cut. The bladder is moved out of the way and an incision is made into the uterus. Again either a vertical or horizontal incision can be made. The baby is delivered through the incision and then clamed while the umbilical cord is cut as in a vaginal delivery. The placenta is delivered next before the uterine and abdominal incisions are closed.
