Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of elective cesarean sections?

Elective cesarean sections are indeed characterized by being planned procedures carried out without medical necessity. This means that the decision to perform the cesarean is not based on an immediate health problem or complication for the mother or baby but rather on the preference of the mother or her provider for various reasons—such as personal comfort or scheduling convenience.

Unlike emergency cesarean sections, which arise from urgent medical situations (like fetal distress or complications during labor), elective cesareans are scheduled in advance, highlighting their distinguishing feature. Additionally, while cesarean deliveries can sometimes be more complex than vaginal births and may have longer recovery times, these aspects are not specific to elective procedures alone. The recovery can vary considerably based on individual circumstances rather than the nature of the surgery being elective or emergency. Thus, the defining characteristic of elective cesarean sections is their planning and lack of immediate medical necessity.