The information in this section was compiled by Kristina Bennert with clinical advice from Rona McCandlish (Midwife and Epidemiologist) and Roshni Patel (Specialist Registrar in Obstetrics & Gynaecology). 

Planned caesarean after a previous caesarean 

1. How many weeks pregnant will I be when a planned caesarean is carried out?

2. What happens if I go into labour before my planned caesarean date?

3. Can I make a birth plan for a planned caesarean?

4. What kinds of anaesthetics are typically used for a caesarean and how do they work?

5. Who can come with me into the operating theatre?

1. How many weeks is a planned caesarean performed at?

Clinical guidelines recommend that a planned caesarean should be performed at around 39 weeks for a singleton foetus. An earlier delivery date increases the likelihood of the baby having breathing difficulties at birth. A later date increases the likelihood of the mother going into labour spontaneously.

2. What happens if I go into labour before my caesarean section date?

It is possible to perform a caesarean after a woman has gone into labour. However, performing a caesarean becomes increasingly complicated the further labour is advanced.  If there is no clear medical reason for the planned caesarean then practical constraints, such as the operating theatre being busy, might mean that the baby is born vaginally before a caesarean can be carried out. To avoid the scenario of women who want to have a planned caesarean going into labour before their booked date, planned caesareans are typically scheduled for week 39 of the pregnancy.

3. Can I make a birth plan for a planned caesarean?

Some women feel that there is no point in making a birth plan for a planned caesarean as many of the details covered in a birth plan for vaginal birth (such as preferences for pain relief during labour and birthing positions) will not apply. However, there are many ways in which a planned caesarean can be adjusted if a woman's preferences are known to make it a more satisfying and individual experience. Useful guidance for planning a caesarean birth can be found at www.csections.org/planning.php


4. What kinds of anaesthetics are typically used for a caesarean and how do they work?

The Obstetric Anaesthesists' Association (OAA) provides a booklet Caesarean section: your choice of anaesthesia for download at this link www.oaa-anaes.ac.uk/content.asp?ContentID=115

5. Who can come with me into the theatre?

If you are having an epidural or spinal anaesthetic, your partner, friend or relative can come into the theatre with you. If you have a caesarean under general anaesthetic, the person with you will normally be asked to stay in the waiting area close to the theatre.

Last reviewed November 2010.