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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
08:49
External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
[Increased rate of Caesarean sections--causes and consequences]
Mette Christophersen Tollånes1
1Laboratorium for klinisk biokjemi, Haukeland universitetssykehus, 5021 Bergen. mette.tollanes@helse-bergen.no
Summary
The rise in caesarean sections is driven by medical and non-medical factors, leading to negative health outcomes for mothers and infants, and increased societal costs. Prevention is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Context:
- Increasing rates of caesarean sections observed globally.
- Significant debate surrounding the causes and consequences of rising caesarean rates.
Purpose:
- To review the multifaceted causes of increased caesarean section rates.
- To outline the adverse maternal, infant, and societal consequences of caesarean delivery.
- To advocate for the prevention of further increases in caesarean section rates.
Summary:
- Caesarean sections are rising due to medical factors (maternal age, BMI, obstetric practices) and non-medical factors (maternal request, litigation fears, healthcare organization).
- Associated risks include maternal morbidity, reduced fertility, placental issues, infant respiratory problems, and decreased breastfeeding.
- The procedure incurs higher societal costs compared to vaginal delivery.
Impact:
- Highlights the complex etiology of rising caesarean rates in industrialized nations.
- Underscores the short- and long-term negative impacts on maternal and child health.
- Emphasizes the economic burden and necessity of preventative strategies.
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