Skip to main content
Black Health logo Black Health
Glossary

Cesarean section

Also known as: C-section, cesarean delivery

Medically reviewed, last updated

A cesarean section is the surgical delivery of a baby through incisions in the abdominal wall and uterus, performed when vaginal delivery is unsafe or impossible. Cesarean rates in the US (~32 percent of all births) are higher than most peer countries and disproportionately performed on Black mothers, even after controlling for medical risk factors.

The Bohren 2017 Cochrane review of 27 trials (n=15,858) found that continuous labor support reduced cesarean rates by 25 percent. This is the evidence base for the doula intervention. See our explainer on Bohren 2017.

Back to glossary

Medical Disclaimer

This glossary entry is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition.