A cesarean, or C-section, delivery starts with a cut in the mom's belly and uterus. Then the baby is pulled through this opening in the mom's belly.  Though most births are done as vaginal deliveries, a C-section is done if there is a safety risk for the mom or the baby.

C-section deliveries are done in the hospital with a short hospital stay to recover.  A C-section is usually not recommended until after labor begins. But, reasons to schedule a C-section include if the baby is not in the right position, the mom has a health problem, it is a multiple pregnancy, or the mom has had a C-section in the past.

C-section delivery is more expensive than a vaginal delivery as the C-section requires surgery.  Since vaginal delivery has less risk of complication and the recovery time is shorter, for some women a vaginal birth after having a c- section, called VBAC, may be an option.

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