[Cesarean-associated complications: the importance of a scarcely justified use]

Undoubtedly, cesarean section is one of the most important surgical procedures for solving obstetrical problems. However, the steady increase in its use might be reflecting a non-medically justified utilization. This work reviews the main complications associated to cesarean section and their effect on the health of mothers and their children. An additional objective is to highlight the importance of establishing clinical protocols aimed at identifying those cases in which a cesarean section should be practiced. The implementation of these guidelines might help to reduce the effect that factors such as preferences of medical personnel or women's demand exert upon the increase of cesarean section use.