Why schedule a c section at 39 weeks

But Cesarean sections or C-sections usually are scheduled for women such as those:. It may be tempting to try to schedule your baby's "birth day" and avoid the uncertainty and pain of labor. But a C-section is a major surgery and, like any surgery, does come with risks. These include:. Another potential risk of having a scheduled C-section that is not medically necessary is giving birth to a late pre-term baby born between 34 and 36 weeks. The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

Learn how to help reduce your risk of some birth defects by getting a preconception checkup , staying at a healthy weight and avoiding alcohol and street drugs. Become inspired by stories from the families at the heart of our mission or share your own story in our community.

March of Dimes research grants have contributed to major medical breakthroughs and advancements. Learn more. Cesarean birth also called c-section is surgery in which your baby is born through a cut that your doctor makes in your belly and uterus.

You and your provider may plan for a c-section because of medical reasons that affect your pregnancy. But more and more c-sections are being scheduled early for non-medical reasons.

Medical experts are learning that this can cause problems for you and your baby. March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every family can have the best possible start. Building on a successful year legacy, we support every pregnant person and every family. March of Dimes, a not-for-profit, section c 3. Privacy, Terms, and Notices , Cookie Settings. Don't miss March for Babies Sign up to help every baby and save lives in your community and across the country.

I'M IN. Sign up to help every baby and save lives in your community and across the country. Need help? Frequently asked questions Contact us. Baby Caring for your baby Feeding your baby. Error: This is required. Error: Not a valid value. There are some important things to consider if you are planning to have a caesarean.

Your doctor might recommend a planned, or elective, caesarean because it is the safest way to deliver the baby if:. Some women opt to have a caesarean for non-medical reasons - for example, so they can avoid a vaginal birth or because it is more convenient. Remember that a caesarean is major surgery which carries risks, including heavy bleeding and problems with the placenta.

It can also affect future pregnancies. You have a right to be involved in making decisions about the type of birth you will have. If you are thinking of a planned caesarean and there is no obvious medical reason, discuss the pros and cons with your doctor. You will need to talk to your doctor and possibly to the anaesthetist before a planned caesarean to check for any possible complications.

Planned caesareans are usually done at around 39 weeks. You will need to fast before the caesarean, as with all surgery. This generally means not eating or drinking anything for 6 hours before the operation. The length of time you need to fast will vary depending on the hospital. When you get to hospital, you will be admitted to the maternity ward.

Your pubic hair may be clipped and your tummy cleaned. You may need to wear compression stockings. You will then be prepared for the anaesthetic.

When a pregnant woman experiences severe stress, the risk of premature birth increases. Her child may be more vulnerable to developing heart defects, diabetes and obesity. Researchers are able to identify correlations such as these thanks to comprehensive health registries. A pregnancy can entail either a risk or a hope for women with eating disorders. Many get rid of the disease for long time. For others, pregnancy is the beginning of their problems. A unique law gives social workers in Norway the right to lock up pregnant drug addicts to protect the health of unborn children.

A new study looks at how the pregnant users react to being incarcerated.