C-Section Statistics - The Truth Behind the Rumours

Modern medical improvements and practices have led to an increase in the rate of caesarean births over recent years all over the world. In fact c section statistics show that women in some countries are 50% more likely to have a caesarean birth as opposed to a vaginal birth.

There are many reasons for this rise in c section statistics, but here are the most common ones: -

#1  There is a medical assumption that having a vaginal birth is more dangerous for women that have had a baby by c section previously.

#2  Increased income for the hospitals that perform the operation means that doctors are more likely to steer women in this direction. Combined with an increase in the overall affluence of patients from developing countries, this may explain the overall increase.

#3  The day of the birth can actually be selected to fit in with holidays and favourite birth dates etc, in fact some mothers even report scheduling the birth around parties or special events.

#4  Many women fear the pain of a natural birth and consider a c section to be a less risky option.

Here are the facts behind the c section statistics: -

• China has the highest rate of c sections in the world, standing at 46%, a quarter of which aren’t necessary.  

• Caesarean section surgery is the most common operation in the US, where over 30% of all babies will be born this way.  

• In Paraguay, 42% of deliveries are by caesarean, and in Ecuador it stands at 40%.  

• Vietnam and Thailand report figures of 36% and 34%, respectively.  

• Lower rates are found in Cambodia, with 15%, and India, with 18%.  

• African countries on the other hand, only report a 9% occurrence in c section births which may be due in part to poorly equipped medical centres.  

If you’re considering having your baby by c section you may want to look at the c section statistics and findings of the WHO that found that women who elected to have caesarean births are more likely to die, be admitted into intensive care units, need blood transfusions or experience other complications.

Studies in the US have also found that babies born this way have a higher likelihood of suffering from breathing problems.

Less c sections wouldn't just mean faster recoveries or a reduction in associated complications, but would also cost much less. A uncomplicated vaginal birth in the US costs about $6,000, whereas a c section is on average, twice that amount.

These c section statistics show a worrying increase in the occurrence of giving birth this way.

If you've had a c section or are planning to have one, then you're going to need to get back in to shape afterwards.

‘The Essential Guide To Exercising After A Caesarean’ is a comprehensive guide designed for women who have just had a c-section which teaches essential exercises after c-section that are safe and effective for assisting a full and complete c section recovery