Cesarean birth, also known as c-section, is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby abdominally. An incision (cut) is made in the mother's belly and uterus (womb). According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 1 in 3 babies in the United States is delivered by cesarean section. Many couples agree that preparing ahead for a Cesarean birth helps reduce anxiety and concern and allows both partners to actively participant in the birth procedure.

Why Might I Have a C-Section?
Your health care provider may suggest that you have a c-section for one or more of these reasons:

• You've already had a c-section in another pregnancy or other surgeries on your uterus.
• Your baby is too big to pass safely through the vagina.
• The baby's buttocks or feet enter the birth canal first, instead of the head. This is called a breech position.
• The baby's shoulder enters the birth canal first, instead of the head. This is called a transverse position
• There are problems with the placenta. This is the organ that nourishes your baby in the womb.
• Labor is too slow or stops.
• The baby's umbilical cord slips into the vagina, where it could be squeezed or flattened during vaginal delivery. This is called umbilical cord prolapse.
• You have an infection like HIV or genital herpes.
• You're having twins, triplets or more.
• The baby has problems during labor that show it is under stress, such as a slow heart rate. This is sometimes called “fetal distress.”
• You have a medical condition that requires intensive or emergency treatment (such as diabetes or high blood pressure).

This class is designed for couples who know they will be delivering by Cesarean and includes a tour of the Family Birthing Center. Couples may also schedule newborn care, breastfeeding and infant CPR at no additional charge.