Cesarean delivery - also known as a C-section - is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen and a second incision in the mother's uterus.A C-section might be planned ahead of time if you develop pregnancy complications or you've had a previous C-section and aren't considering vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Often, however, the need for a first-time C-section doesn't become obvious until labor is under way.If you're pregnant, knowing what to expect during a C-section - both during the procedure and afterward - can help you prepare.