Rise in Caesarean births by 30 per cent in 15 years

A major study led by the World Health Organisation has found that more than a quarter of babies are now born by Caesarean section, and has linked the findings to rising levels of obesity, women having babies later in life, and fear of labour.

Study leader Dr Marleen Temmerman, warned that the procedure should not be overused, saying “C-sections can create complications and side-effects for mothers and babies, and we call on healthcare professionals, hospitals, funders and women to only intervene when it is medically required.”

While there are obvious benefits to emergency caesareans, it can be a divisive issue, with many healthcare professionals believing that natural births are safer for mother and baby and more beneficial to both.

It is estimated that around 10 to 15 per cent of births require a caesarean section on medical grounds, which means that the number of women who are choosing to give birth in this way without any medical need is rising.

Under NHS guidelines, pregnant women have the right to request to have an elective caesarean section if they are worried or anxious about having a natural birth.

However, the procedures have been linked to health concerns in mothers, including bleeding, infection, conception problems, stillbirth and an increased risk of hysterectomy. Studies have also found that babies born this way have an increased risk of problems such as obesity or asthma later in life.

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence compensation claims, and have obtained substantial compensation for our clients. Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

If you believe that you or a relative may have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence solicitors on the freephone number below.

Posted by Karen Motley, Paralegal, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (karenmotley@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Freephone : 0800 304 738