Caesarean birth

Examines the factors that influence childbirth and breastfeeding practices, such as new technologies, changing labour markets, medical
and corporate profits and the politics of choice.

Points to important health and financial costs associated with increasingly casual use of major abdominal surgery (caesarean sections) in a primarily healthy population.

Links to various sources of information on c-sections, vaginal birth and VBAC.

Presents the International Confederation of Midwives' position statement regarding vaginal births and elective caesarean sections. PDF required to read.

Looks at: why a caesarean section might be recommended; research comparing risks of c-section and vaginal birth; tips for lowering risk when giving birth; and vaginal birth and c-section resources.

Provides information on the issues surrounding VBAC vs. planned repeat caesarean section. Includes a review of the evidence.

Examines the question of caesarian section on demand, and argues that data about the effects of unnecessary C-sections is missing and/or incomplete.

States that vaginal birth is clearly the safest birth for most women and babies, and that caesarean section on demand will have disastrous social and financial consequences for health.

Lists the hazards of elective repeat caesarean section for the baby and the long-term adverse consequences for the woman's future reproductive life.