Childbirth is a life-altering experience for any woman, but a Cesarean delivery can be overwhelming, whether it's unexpected or planned. Despite the fact that roughly one in four babies in the United States is delivered by c-section, very little information about the experience is included in typical pregnancy books and physicians and childbirth educators often gloss over the details. ''The Essential C-Section Guide'' is written not only for women to read in preparation for a scheduled c-section and for those considered ''high risk'' who know that a c-section may become necessary but also for women recovering from an unexpected surgical delivery. This book provides answers to important questions about what the surgery entails, what a woman can expect as she recovers, and what considerations should be made for future pregnancies and deliveries. With frank discussions about the physical and emotional aspects surrounding a c-section, the authors share comforting wisdom about early bonding, pain control, breastfeeding, infant care, healing from surgery, postpartum exercise, partner involvement, and much more, in detail not available anywhere else. Written by authors who have firsthand knowledge of birth by c-section, ''The Essential C-Section Guide'' is well-researched and addresses its unique concerns with intelligence and compassion. www.broadwaybooks.com