18th June 2003
MPs SAY NHS CAESAREANS SHOULD BE LIMITED
MPs are calling for elective Caesareans to be made unavailable on the NHS.
One in four births in the UK are by Caesarean section, a level that is much higher than the 10 per cent recommendation provided by the World Health Organisation. A new report produced by the Commons Health Committee claims that elective Caesareans - where women choose to have the procedure for lifestyle reasons, rather than medical conditions - should be banned on the NHS to help reduce the growing number of babies born this way.
Some women choose the procedure as it offers a relatively quick and easy birth, yet the NHS suffers, as it costs about £760 more than a natural birth.
According to the report authors, "We would like to see a distinct shift in emphasis to ensure that elective Caesareans as a 'lifestyle choice' are not supported by the NHS and that Caesarean section should be a procedure undertaken only when medically or psychologically necessary and after appropriate support and counselling."
The report also noted that the number of Caesareans performed at hospitals varied considerably across the UK - something they'd like to work at and level out. To give women the opportunity to compare the success and performance rates of doctors, rather than just hospitals, they're also calling for consultants to publish figures detailing their delivery rates and methods used.
Birth organisations have welcomed the report, but warned that part of the reason for higher levels of Caesareans is believed to be due to staff shortages.
Where to next- Chat about birth on the Birth and Caesarean discussion forums
- Take a look at our guide to having a baby
- Discover what's involved with a Caesarean section and what to expect after a Caesarean
- Share your own unique birth story
- Fancy a chat? Visit the Your Shout discussion forum