Cesarean Section Day

Cesarean Section Day is an American holiday dedicated to the surgical method of childbirth known as a “Caesarean section.” Celebrated on January 14th, this procedure is used in difficult childbirth and often saves the lives of both the child and the mother. The operation involves an incision in the peritoneum and uterus, followed by the removal of the child.

History

The history of Cesarean Section Day is associated with the first successful Caesarean section. In 1794, the wife of Dr. Jesse Bennett gave birth under his and physician Humphrey’s supervision. The labor had been going on for several hours, and the woman’s condition was worsening. Bennett suggested a “Caesarean section,” which had not been used before. There was only theoretical information about its effectiveness and safety. Dr. Humphrey abandoned this venture and left, as he did not believe in the success of the operation.

Bennett was left alone with some of the servants at home and decided to carry out the operation himself. He built a makeshift table from boards and barrels, using candles for lighting. Opium tincture served as an anesthetic. He used homemade tools, as there were no others available. Through an incision in the lower abdomen, he removed the child by cutting the umbilical cord. Fortunately, both mother and child survived. The girl was named Maria.

The operation was hidden for a long time. Dr. Jesse feared he would be accused of slander and simply did not believe that such an operation was successful. After Bennett’s death, Dr. A.L. Knight (who was a boy when the operation was carried out) gathered all the eyewitnesses and wrote a full account of this operation. Since then, “Caesarean section” has been firmly entrenched in medical practice and has saved the lives of many children and their mothers.

Interesting facts

• The term “Caesarean” probably comes from the name of Julius Caesar. He passed a law during his reign making it mandatory to remove the child from the womb of the mother, even if she died, giving many children a chance for survival.
• Mortality in “Caesarean section” is less than 0.1% of all cases.
• The operation is recommended if there are appropriate indications, but many women choose this method themselves.

How to celebrate

Learn more about “Caesarean section” on this day. Congratulate relatives and friends if there are those among them who have recently given birth through surgery.

Share information about Cesarean Section Day on social media. Express your support to obstetricians and women who will give birth through this method.

When is Cesarean Section Day in 2025?

Cesarean Section Day is observed on January 14 each year.

Observations