A cesarean section is a very common surgery that is performed to remove the baby from the uterus. During the procedure, an incision is made in the abdomen and uterus, and then the baby is removed from the opening. There are different reasons why a woman may have a cesarean section. When the procedure is scheduled ahead of time rather than performed in an emergency situation, it is similar to having a scheduled surgery. Usually, cesarean sections are scheduled for the 39th week of pregnancy, or when the baby is ready for life outside the womb.