Planned caesareans pose no bigger threat than vaginal deliveries for either mother or baby, according to a study.
NHS doctors tend to only carry out the major procedure if it is considered the safest option because it carries several risks.
But Canadian researchers have now challenged the claims, finding that it may even be better for mothers-to-be and their babies.
Ottawa University scientists leafed through the records of 422,000 births, including 2,000 where expectant mothers chose to have a C section.
They counted how many were admitted to intensive care and compared death rates between the two groups.
Results showed women who chose to have a C section faced no greater risk, and hinted the mothers-to-be and their infants may even be better off.