One in four babies in England born by Caesarean

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The most recent NHS England data reveals that one in four babies is now born via Caesarean section. This proportion has been increasing steadily over the past decade. Experts say that the rise is linked to an increasing number of complex pregnancies, where the mother is older or obese, for instance. However, some mothers are choosing to undergo the procedure for non-medical reasons.

In 2013-14, only 13% of deliveries in England were by Caesarean. But last year, the NHS performed 398,675 deliveries, of which 101,264, or 25%, were Caesareans. Of these, 67,100 were a planned or “elective” procedure. An NHS spokesperson observed that “a Caesarean is a major operation that comes with risks, so it’s usually done when it’s the safest option for women and their baby. However, some do choose to have a C-section for a non-medical reason.”

Mothers’ age was found to be the most significant factor in determining the likelihood of a Caesarean birth. For women over 39, it was the most common method of delivery. In contrast, most women under 30 had a “spontaneous” vaginal birth without medical intervention to start the labour process.

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ (RCOG) President, Dr Ranee Thakar, stated that complex births resulting from an increase in maternal obesity and women choosing to give birth later in life were major factors in the rising rate of Caesarean births. She further commented that the RCOG does not promote one form of birth over another.

The NHS recently removed its limit on how many Caesareans can be performed, having previously encouraged maternity units to keep the Caesarean rate to approximately 20% and promote vaginal birth. The NHS now advises women to take a planned Caesarean if it is safe and they would like one. However, it is important to remember that a Caesarean does come with risks and is generally performed only when it is the safest option for the woman and child

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More

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