US Medical Term · procedures
Cesarean Section
Cesárea
Also: Operación cesárea (regional variant)
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Cesarean Section |
| Spanish (Español) | Cesárea |
| Chinese (中文) | 剖腹產 |
| Korean (한국어) | 제왕절개 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Sinh mổ |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Cesarean section |
| Portuguese (Português) | Cesariana |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การผ่าตัดคลอด |
| Japanese (日本語) | 帝王切開 |
What it means
A cesarean section, also called a C-section, is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions made in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It may be planned in advance due to certain health conditions or complications, or it may be performed as an emergency during labor. Most C-sections use regional anesthesia such as an epidural or spinal block so the mother stays awake. The surgery takes about 45 minutes and recovery in the hospital typically lasts two to four days. Full recovery at home may take six to eight weeks. Activity restrictions apply, especially lifting, to protect the incision.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My obstetrician said I may need a cesarean section if the baby does not turn before delivery.
Mi obstetra dijo que quizás necesite una cesárea si el bebé no se voltea antes del parto.
What type of anesthesia is used during a cesarean section?
¿Qué tipo de anestesia se usa durante una cesárea?
How long after a cesarean section can I drive and return to normal activities?
¿Cuánto tiempo después de la cesárea puedo manejar y retomar mis actividades normales?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026