WHO recommendations: non-clinical interventions to reduce unnecessary caesarean sections

Overview

Caesarean section is a surgical procedure that can effectively prevent maternal and newborn mortality when used for medically indicated reasons. Caesarean section rates have increased steadily worldwide over the last decades. This trend has not been accompanied by significant maternal or perinatal benefits. On the contrary, there is evidence that, beyond a certain threshold, increasing caesarean section rates may be associated with increased maternal and perinatal morbidity. Caesarean birth is associated with short- and long-term risks that can extend many years beyond the current delivery and affect the health of the woman, the child and future pregnancies. High rates of caesarean section are associated with substantial health-care costs.

This new guideline on non-clinical interventions to reduce unnecessary caesarean sections incorporates the views, fears and beliefs of both women and health professionals about caesarean sections. It also considers the complex dynamics and limitations of health systems and organizations and relationships between women, health professionals and organization of health care services.