What Is a Gentle Cesarean—and Can I Ask for One?
If you’re preparing for a planned C-section, it’s okay to have mixed emotions. You might feel relief, fear, grief, or even a sense of detachment—especially if your pregnancy or relationships haven’t gone the way you hoped.
But here’s something important:
A C-section can still be sacred. Still be empowering. Still be yours.
Enter the idea of the gentle cesarean—sometimes called a family-centered cesarean.
So, What Is a Gentle Cesarean?
A gentle or family-centered cesarean is a birth that takes place in the OR with intention. It centers you and your baby—not just the procedure. It’s about keeping the humanity and connection in the room.
It might include:
Clear drape or a drape lowered during delivery, so you can see your baby being born
Immediate or early skin-to-skin in the OR
Delayed cord clamping, when safe
Unhurried environment, with dimmed lights and soft music (yes, you can bring a playlist!)
Partner or support person present at your side
Narration from your care team—so you feel informed, not out of the loop
Why It Matters
A gentle cesarean doesn’t just “feel better.” It can actually support:
Bonding and breastfeeding—Early skin-to-skin can trigger oxytocin release and support milk production
Emotional processing—Feeling seen and involved can reduce feelings of trauma or disempowerment
Baby’s transition—Some gentle cesarean protocols mimic the squeezing and colonization process of vaginal birth (like leaving vernix intact, not rushing to wipe baby down)
In other words: it’s not just fluff. It’s evidence-based support for your nervous system and your baby’s.
What the Research Says
Studies have shown that immediate skin-to-skin contact—even in the OR—can:
Improve baby’s breathing, temperature regulation, and blood sugar
Enhance maternal satisfaction and emotional recovery
Increase likelihood of successful breastfeeding
Hospitals that implement gentle cesarean protocols often see higher parent satisfaction and lower risk of postpartum depression or PTSD, especially in people who previously experienced a traumatic birth.
Can I Ask for One?
Yes. But depending on your hospital, you may need to advocate for it.
Here’s what you can do:
Talk with your OB or surgical team ahead of time. Ask what’s possible at your hospital. Use language like:
“I know this is a surgical birth, but I’d love for it to feel like a birth—not just a procedure.”
Make a simple Cesarean Birth Plan. Just 1–2 pages outlining your priorities (skin-to-skin, music, cord clamping, etc.). We can help you write this!
Choose your support team wisely. If you’re navigating personal challenges or emotional overwhelm, it’s okay to bring someone other than your co-parent. You deserve someone calm and affirming at your side.
Ask for a baby-friendly nurse. Someone who will help advocate for skin-to-skin and breastfeeding support post-op.
If You're Feeling Alone Right Now
If you’re reading this and you’re not sure who will be in the OR with you—know this:
You are still worthy of a birth that feels connected and calm.
You can still welcome your baby in love and intention—even through heartbreak.
You are not alone.
Whether you bring your partner, a friend, a doula, or your own fierce spirit—you get to choose how you show up. Gentle birth isn’t about the setting. It’s about being treated with dignity, softness, and care.
Be Well Baby’s Take
Birth matters—every kind of birth.
We believe cesareans deserve as much reverence as any other type of birth. If you’re preparing for a planned C-section, we can help you:
Craft a simple birth preferences sheet
Practice calming nervous system techniques before and after
Plan for skin-to-skin, feeding support, and postpartum recovery
Rebuild trust in your body and your story—especially if things have been hard
You’ve got time. You’ve got options. And you’ve got us.
Love,
Emily
