Maternal Assisted C-Section
What is a Maternal-Assisted Caesarian Section?
A maternal-assisted C-section (MAC) lets the mother actively help deliver her baby by reaching down to lift the infant from the womb onto her chest for immediate skin-to-skin contact, creating a more involved and empowering birth experience, though it requires specific medical criteria (low-risk, elective, healthy baby/mother) and involves lowering the surgical drape so the mother sees the birth. While not for emergencies, MACs promote bonding and can reduce feelings of disengagement often associated with traditional C-sections, offering a sense of control and positive emotional connection.
Psychological & Emotional Benefits
- Mothers actively participate in bringing their baby out of the womb, reducing feelings of helplessness.
- Immediate skin-to-skin contact with the baby on the chest fosters instant connection and reduces the emotional distress of separation.
- Creates a more human, inclusive, and memorable birth event, transforming what can be a clinical procedure into a participatory moment.
Physiological & Physical Benefits
- The baby is placed directly on the mother's chest, facilitating warmth and comfort.
- Skin-to-skin contact helps initiate breastfeeding sooner.
- Exposes the baby to the mother's beneficial skin bacteria.
- Often incorporated, allowing more blood flow to the baby.
Nancy's Birthing Plan Journey
When Nancy Culpepper was preparing for her second caesarean delivery, she had some ideas about what she wanted her birth story to look and feel like.
At St. Francis Women’s Hospital, every birth is personal. We take the time to listen, honor each patient’s goals, and work together to create a safe, meaningful experience for every family because your big day is important for us, too.
"I'd highly recommend St. Francis as a place to come to deliver your baby. They want your birth to be the birth of your dreams, and I really believe they're going to go above and beyond to make that happen for moms who choose St. Francis."