MODEL RELEASED. Caesarean birth. Surgeons delivering a baby by Caesarean section. During this procedure, the baby is delivered through an incision made in the woman's abdomen and uterus. It is performed when it is difficult or dangerous for the baby to be delivered vaginally. An epidural anaesthetic can be given to numb the nerves that supply the chest and the lower half of the body, allowing the mother to remain conscious during the delivery. Alternatively, the operation may be performed under general anaesthetic.