In Italy, the rate of cesarean sections is much higher compared to other European countries. This is not always due to genuine medical necessity. Sometimes, cesareans are performed out of habit, lack of adequate facilities, or fear of complications, even when they are not strictly necessary.
When Is a Cesarean Really Useful?
A cesarean section can save the life of the mother or baby in certain situations, such as:
- Placenta previa (placenta located too low)
- Twin pregnancies with complications
- Fetal growth delay with signs of distress
- Maternal infections (such as HIV or Herpes) in certain conditions
- Breech presentation (in some cases)
- After a previous cesarean (if vaginal birth carries risks)
However, in many other cases, natural birth is safe and recommended—even after a previous cesarean.
What You Can Do as an Expectant Mother
- Get informed: Ask your doctor or midwife why a cesarean is being proposed and if there are alternatives.
- Take part in decisions: Your opinion matters! Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Know the benefits of natural birth: Lower long-term risks for mother and baby, faster recovery, fewer future complications.
Birth is not just the moment of delivery; it is part of a broader journey that begins much earlier and continues afterward. For this reason, it is important that every woman is supported in making informed choices.
How to Prepare for a Planned Cesarean
A planned cesarean is decided together with your doctor and midwife at the hospital. During the consultation, you will be asked to sign an informed consent form—a valuable moment to receive clear explanations and ask questions.
Preparation is not complicated, but you may need:
- Blood tests
- An anesthesiology visit
- Fetal heart monitoring
Prepare your hospital bag in advance, considering an average stay of 3–4 days. Remember to pack:
- Compression stockings for circulation
- Comfortable clothes (such as long shirts) to avoid discomfort from the catheter
- Everything you and your baby will need
How to Face the Postpartum Period After a Cesarean
Recovery after a cesarean varies from woman to woman, but in most cases, if there are no complications, you will go home after a few days.
- The catheter is usually removed within 12–24 hours
- You can start walking and eating from the day after surgery
- It is important to rest, drink plenty of water, and ask for help
Bleeding is normal: manage it with regular changing of pads. Pain at the incision or uterus can be relieved with medications prescribed by your doctors.
You will be under observation for the first two hours after birth. Asking for the presence of your partner or a trusted person can help you feel more calm.
What About Contact with the Baby?
More and more hospitals allow:
- Skin-to-skin contact already in the operating room or immediately afterward
- Starting breastfeeding in the first moments
If you had general anesthesia or are separated from your baby for clinical reasons, contact will happen as soon as possible, safely.
Caring for the Incision
The incision requires simple care:
- Cover it during the first days, then let it breathe
- Wear soft cotton clothing
- Avoid scratching or rubbing the area
If you notice redness, bad smell, or discharge, contact your doctor immediately.
Will the Scar Always Remain?
Every body is different: in many women, the scar becomes barely visible; in others, it may remain more noticeable. Circular massages and recommended products can help reduce discomfort and improve scar appearance.
After the Cesarean, Take Care of Yourself
Don’t forget to talk with your healthcare professional about: Sexuality and Contraception.