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  • cesarean section
    cesarean section
    A surgical incision through the abdominal wall and uterus, performed to deliver a fetus.
  • Cesarean section
    Cesarean section
    Childbirth by surgical removal of the fetus through an incision made in the wall of the abdomen and in the uterus, usually used as an alternative when natural delivery through the vagina is considered risky. The number of Cesarean sections in the United States has increased sharply in recent years, causing concern among patients, surgeons, and insurers.
Synonyms

cesarean section

Scientific  
/ sĭ-zârē-ən /
  1. A surgical incision through the abdominal wall and uterus, performed to deliver a fetus.


Cesarean section Cultural  
  1. Childbirth by surgical removal of the fetus through an incision made in the wall of the abdomen and in the uterus, usually used as an alternative when natural delivery through the vagina is considered risky. The number of Cesarean sections in the United States has increased sharply in recent years, causing concern among patients, surgeons, and insurers.


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The term derives from the traditional belief that Julius Caesar was born by this method.

The procedure is often referred to colloquially as a “C-section.”

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Evidence Based Birth article, “Evidence on: Doulas,” shows the support of a birth doula can reduce stress, reduce use of pain-relief medications, increase vaginal births and lower rates of medical interventions including Cesarean section.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 10, 2024

Physicians warned her that continuing the pregnancy put her at high risk of developing gestational diabetes and hypertension—and that a third Cesarean section might also deprive Cox of the ability to have another child.

From Slate • Dec. 8, 2023

Derek Clarke, the doctor listed on the hospital discharge document, delivered Lynndaya by Cesarean section.

From Reuters • Dec. 7, 2015

But he pointed out that aspiration can be an issue if an emergency Cesarean section is required due to fetal distress.

From US News • Oct. 24, 2015

While, on the other hand, the Cesarean section is an easy operation, capable of successful performance by any surgeon of ordinary skill.’

From Moral Principles and Medical Practice The Basis of Medical Jurisprudence by Coppens, Charles