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                                          The Leeds 
                                  Teaching Hospitals
                                              NHS Trust
         Caesarean Section
         Information for patients
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        Leeds 
        Maternity Care
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               The date for your Caesarean Section is:
           ....................................................................................
                  at St James’s University Hospital /  
                      Leeds General Infirmary 
                        (delete as appropriate)
      On the day of your Caesarean Section please attend:
      St James’s University Hospital
      Delivery Suite (Ward J03), Level 5, Gledhow Wing, SJUH 
      Leeds General Infirmary
      Delivery Suite (Ward L45), C Floor, Clarendon Wing, LGI  
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   What is a Caesarean Section?
   A Caesarean Section is an operation to deliver a baby through 
   the abdomen. It involves an incision (cut) through the skin 
   and the muscles of the abdomen, 
   usually along the “bikini line”, and 
   then an incision into the lower part 
   of the womb to deliver the baby. The 
   placenta is also removed through the 
   abdomen before the womb, skin and 
   muscles are stitched back together in 
   separate layers. 
   Why do I need a Caesarean Section?
   There are many reasons why a Caesarean Section may be 
   recommended to deliver your baby. Sometimes there is a risk 
   to the baby from a vaginal delivery. For example, if there were 
   problems delivering your first baby which may occur again. 
   Sometimes there may be a risk to the mother - these include 
   high blood pressure or other medical conditions that would 
   make labour potentially more risky. The reasons for your 
   Caesarean Section should have been fully explained to you by 
   the doctor. A Caesarean Section is only recommended when the 
   risks of a Caesarean Section are considered to be less than the 
   risk of continuing the pregnancy and having a vaginal birth.
   Can I choose to have a planned caesarean section?
   You may wish to choose a caesarean section, even if you 
   have no medical reasons for one. Talk to your midwife about 
   anything that is worrying you and about the reasons why you 
   would like a caesarean section. They may be able to put your 
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