[Increased rate of Caesarean sections--causes and consequences].
BACKGROUND
A rise in the rate of caesarean sections has been observed in most parts of the developed world during the last decades. Causes and consequences are much debated.


METHODS
Non-systematic literature search in PubMed.


RESULTS
The increased rate of caesarean sections can be explained by both medical non-medical factors. Among the medical factors are increases in maternal age and body mass index, as well as changes in obstetric practise and technology. Some non-medical factors are caesarean section requested by the mother, fear of litigation among caregivers and inappropriate organization of maternity care. Caesarean section is associated with maternal postpartum morbidity, reduced fertility and placental complications in a subsequent pregnancy. For the child, caesarean section is associated with postpartum respiratory morbidity, less breast-feeding and possibly more atopic disease. For society, caesarean section is more costly than vaginal delivery.


CONCLUSIONS
There are many and complex causes of the rise in caesarean section rates in industrialized countries. The procedure has inherent negative consequences (short- and long-term) for mother and child, as well as being an economic burden to society. There is every reason to attempt prevention of a further increase in caesarean section rates.
Tollånes
Mette Christophersen
MC
Laboratorium for klinisk biokjemi, Haukeland universitetssykehus, 5021 Bergen. mette.tollanes@helse-bergen.no
D015992:Body Mass Index; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000706:statistics & numerical data / Q000639:trends; D017558:Elective Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008423:Maternal Age; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D011247:Pregnancy; D012307:Risk Factors