A Caesarean birth is an operation to delivery your baby through an incision in your abdomen (stomach). This operation is performed in our labour ward theatres. If you wish to have a Caesarean birth, please discuss with your midwife or doctor.
Choosing a Caesarean birth
We support all choices of place of birth and choice of mode of birth, including requesting a Caesarean when there is not a medical need.
You can talk to your community midwife or obstetrician about your birth plan at any appointment.
If choosing care options outside of guidance you will be supported through an informed decision making process with a consultant midwife through referral to a birth options appointment and/or a consultant obstetrician as appropriate.
We will listen, discuss options for compromise and offer support in your birth choice.
Useful guidance and information on choosing a Caesarean birth
In addition to speaking to our midwives and doctors, you can also access a range of information and guidance on Caesarean births:
- Choosing a Caesarean decision tool
- Please read the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ information leaflet on choosing to have a Caesarean section.
Your elective Caesarean section journey
Once you have consented for your Caesarean with your obstetrician, your appointment will be sent to you nearer the time and you will be seen in a pre-operative clinic. Here, you will receive more information ahead of your Caesarean.
In the video below, which is also available on our YouTube channel, one of our consultant obstetricians Kelly McNamee talks expecting parents through the journey of an elective Caesarean section at Lister Hospital’s Diamond Jubilee Maternity Unit.
*Please note, this video was filmed and published during Covid-19. A newer version will soon replace this. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your midwife.
Please also read this information leaflet on enhanced recovery after a Caesarean section
Vaginal birth after Caesarean section (VBAC)
If you are pregnant, have had a Caesarean birth in the past, and are considering VBAC, you may find our useful guidance helpful.
Vaginal birth after Caesarean guidance (VBAC)
