The Ministry of Health recently reported that C-section rates in India have witnessed a staggering four-fold rise over the last sixteen years. Specifically, surgical deliveries now account for over 27 per cent of all reported births in the 2024-25 period. This data highlights a consistent year-on-year increase from 12.03 lakh to over 54.35 lakh. Notably, the share first crossed the 10 per cent threshold in 2012-13 and surpassed 20 per cent by 2020-21. By 2024-25, the figure rose further to 27.46 per cent.

Analyzing C-section Rates in India and Clinical Drivers

A study by the Population Research Centre identified several clinical factors for this shift. For instance, advanced maternal age and multiple pregnancies often necessitate surgical intervention. Additionally, fetal distress and previous C-sections significantly increase the likelihood of another surgery. However, the study also suggests that changing patient preferences influence doctors' decision-making processes. Consequently, medical practitioners must balance clinical necessity with patient safety to ensure optimal outcomes for both mother and child.

Government Initiatives to Regulate Deliveries

To address unnecessary surgeries, the government has implemented several monitoring protocols. Hospitals empanelled under CGHS must now display their ratio of surgical to normal deliveries. Furthermore, the 'LaQshya' initiative includes a dedicated audit component for maternity operation theatres. The health ministry also conducts training programs like 'Daksh' and 'Dakshta' to promote natural birth skills. Despite the rise in surgeries, India has seen a sharp decline in maternal mortality. For example, the Maternal Mortality Ratio dropped from 212 to 88 per lakh live births. Likewise, the Infant Mortality Rate has decreased from 57 to 25 per thousand live births.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why are C-sections increasing in India?

Clinical factors such as advanced maternal age, fetal distress, and prior surgeries contribute to the rise. Furthermore, changing patient preferences and clinical decision-making also play significant roles in the increasing trend.

Q2: How does the government regulate unnecessary C-sections?

The government monitors these trends through the LaQshya initiative audits. Additionally, CGHS-empanelled hospitals must publicly display their C-section to normal delivery ratios to ensure transparency.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or replace professional judgment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. C-section births witness over four-fold rise between 2008-09 and 2024-25: Govt - ETHealthworld


2. Population Research Centre (PRC), Dharwad. (2022). Understanding the Context of Caesarean Delivery.


3. National Health Mission. (2024). Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative (LaQshya) Guidelines.