A: A planned cesarean section requires a horizontal scar in most instances, which is often 5 – 7 inches in length and usually placed near the top of your pubic hair line. Occasionally a vertical skin incision is recommended. The scar will always be present, though scars do fade over time. Initially the scar will be pink and may feel hard. Over time, scars become softer and closer in color to your skin tones. If you or members of your family tend to make keloid scars (which are thick and raised) your doctor may be able to use steroid injections after the surgery to reduce your chances for this.

Husbands are often allowed in the operating room for a cesarean section, depending on your hospital’s protocol and your doctor’s preference. Your husband would be seated close to you by your side, and separated from the operating field with a sterile drape. His role would be to help relax and support you through the surgical procedure. Usually, partners are allowed to enter the operating room only after the anesthetic is administered by the anesthesiologist and the sterile drapes are in position. If your husband is very nervous in hospitals or likely to faint in the operating room, you might prefer to choose another family member or close friend to be your support person at this time.

In our hospital, the husband will accompany the newborn to the recovery room during the last part of the cesarean section. Find out what the protocol is in your own hospital. If available, I heartily recommend that you take a cesarean section class to better prepare yourselves. For more information on this topic, see my article on this web site titled, “Cesarean Sections.”