Every woman who is about to give birth wants an uncomplicated delivery. But sometimes complications do arise and a doctor may decide it's necessary to perform a cesarean section. For example, the mother or the baby may have a health condition that would make a normal delivery dangerous. The baby may be too large or in the wrong position, or there may be multiple babies to be delivered.

But cesarean sections are performed for less serious reasons as well, such as speeding up the delivery or because the mother requests it. Cesarean section is now the most common surgery in the United States.

Although cesarean section is generally safe, it still is major surgery that carries risks for mother and baby. During a cesarean delivery, an incision is made in the mother's abdomen and another in the uterus. The baby is delivered through these incisions. The procedure requires a longer recuperation period than a vaginal birth, and there is an increased risk of maternal death. Some babies delivered via cesarean section experience breathing problems and other difficulties.

Until recently, it was thought that once a woman had delivered by cesarean all future births must be delivered the same way. Now doctors know that having a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) can be safe for many women. The benefits include a quicker recovery, a lower risk of infection, and a reduced need for blood transfusions.

Discuss the risks and benefits of your delivery options with your doctor.

Content provided by Parrish Medical Center and Vim and Vigor, www.parrishmed.com.