07/23/2026
There are a lot of layers involved in a cesarean birth, but once surgery begins, the time from the first incision to meeting your baby is often just a few minutes!
(thanks to the Prenatal Yoga Centre for this great illustration of the layers involved)
In Calgary, about 30% of babies are born by cesarean section. For first-time moms with no major risk factors, the rate is lower, around 15–20%.
Even if you're hoping and preparing for a vaginal birth, there's a reasonable chance your baby could be born by C-section. Knowing what happens before and during surgery, who will be in the room and what recovery looks like, can make the experience feel much less intimidating if your birth takes an unexpected turn.
While some cesarean births are planned, most happen during labour. Only about 1% are true emergencies and our hospital staff is well prepared to provide safe, timely care when every minute counts.
Here in Calgary, Labour & Delivery nurses are with you in the operating room, helping make your baby's birth as calm, supportive, and family-centred as possible.
Next week in our prenatal yoga classes, we will be talking about cesarean births. Whether you're planning a vaginal birth or a scheduled C-section, come with your questions and let’s learn together!
🧡 See you on the mat soon!
