What is the typical tissue layer encountered first during a C-section after the skin incision?

During a C-section, the first tissue layer encountered after making the skin incision is the subcutaneous tissue. This layer, composed of fat and connective tissue, lies between the skin and the fascia. The skin incision allows access to this tissue layer, which is typically dissected to reach deeper structures.

Following the subcutaneous tissue, the fascia will be encountered, which is a layer of connective tissue that covers the muscles and is denser than the subcutaneous layer. After the fascia, the surgeon would encounter the peritoneum, which is the membrane lining the abdominal cavity. The uterine myometrium, which is the muscular layer of the uterus itself, is not reached until further into the procedure, after both the skin and deeper layers have been navigated through. Understanding the order of these anatomical layers is crucial for a safe and effective surgical approach during a C-section.