Differences in the reported frequencies of some obstetrical interventions in Europe.
Answers to a questionnaire on perinatal practices in countries of the WHO European region revealed rates of operative delivery ranging from about 6 to 24%. When the caesarean section rates were compared with the rates of forceps and vacuum extraction for each country, no systematic trend was found. There was a slight negative correlation between the frequencies of operative delivery and national perinatal mortality rates, but this accounts for only a small amount of the inter-country variation in perinatal mortality rates. The frequencies of induction of labour ranged from 12 to 36% in four countries with reliable national data. Relatively few European countries have population-based statistical data on the frequencies of caesarean section, forceps delivery and vacuum extractions. The national recording of induction of labour is unusual. Considering the medical and psycho-social impact of these procedures, we suggest national or regional monitoring.
D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric / Q000379:methods*; D005060:Europe; D005113:Extraction, Obstetrical / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007226:Infant Mortality; D007751:Labor, Induced / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009772:Obstetrical Forceps; D011247:Pregnancy; D014620:Vacuum Extraction, Obstetrical / Q000706:statistics & numerical data