This rate is 5 times higher than that recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), yet the majority of South African women will chose this way to bring their baby into the world.

A caesarean can be performed using epidural anaesthesia, spinal block, or general anaesthesia – which is usually used when a baby needs to be delivered very quickly or if there are technical problems, this does however increase the risks for both mom and baby which is why an epidural is preferred.

An incision is made through the lower abdomen and the uterus wall through which the baby is removed.

• Safer birth for high risk pregnancies e.g. placenta praevia, unstable heart condition, high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, placental deterioration or if the baby is not growing
• Can be performed quickly when there is foetal distress or foetal tachycardia (elevated heart rate)
• No risk of trauma to vagina or perineal area
• Preferred birth for twin pregnancy or breech presentation in South Africa
• The date your baby will be born is known in advance which can help with planning maternity leave

Cons

• Major abdominal operation
• Higher mortality rate than vaginal birth (5 times higher for maternal death)
• Greater risk of complications – infection, anaesthetic problems
• Babies are often born prematurely because the caesar is scheduled too early
• Difficult to establish breastfeeding afterwards as some hospitals keep baby in an incubator for up to 6 hours afterwards
• More pain after the birth and mother will need to take medication
• Impact on future births- many women are denied the opportunity to birth vaginally afterwards
• Intravenous drip and urinary catheter are used
• Long recovery period (no heavy lifting or driving for up to 6 weeks) - Kim Young