Trends in obstetric care in the United Kingdom

This is a comparative study of the annual statistical returns to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists for 1993, 1994 and 1997/8. Over the study period there has been a decrease in normal vaginal deliveries of the order of 3% which is mirrored by a similar increase in caesarean section rates. Induction of labour rates have remained relatively constant 22.22%, 22.96% and 24.79% for 1993, 1994 and 1997/8, respectively. The overall instrumental delivery rate has changed little but there is an increasing preference for vacuum extraction over forceps. Analysis of the figures for each country (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) show broadly similar trends.