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What to expect: on the day

• Before the operation, you'll be given an epidural so you're awake but won't feel any pain. Your bed will be tilted sideways to take pressure off your womb.
• A screen will be placed across your abdomen so you can't see what's happening - you can ask for this to be removed if you want to see your baby being born.
• An incision will be made into your lower abdomen and then again into the wall of the womb so the baby can be lifted out. The placenta is removed and your womb and abdomen are sewn back together with dissolvable stitches. You'll usually be given an injection to help the womb contract and reduce blood loss.
• As soon as the operation is over (it usually takes about 30-45 minutes), you'll be given your baby to hold.