The Downsides and Risks of C-Sections The dangers, as with any major surgery, include infection, blood loss or deadly clots, nausea, vomiting, and severe headache (typically due to anesthesia), bowel difficulties, damage to another organ (such as the bladder), and, in rare cases, death. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 30 women who have a cesarean section will die within a year of the operation. Shortened lifespan is only one of many downsides of cesareans. They are also more likely to lead to problems such as chronic pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction. Women who have cesareans also tend to need more frequent surgeries over their lifetime. The benefits of cesareans usually include faster recovery time for the mother and baby and less risk of serious complications if an emergency situation arises. However, since these advantages apply to most major surgeries, they cannot be used as justification for canceling elective procedures. Women should consider all the risks and benefits before deciding on how to deliver their child. If you do choose a cesarean section, make sure you have not been given a false sense of security about the safety of this type of delivery method.