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Caesarean births overtake vaginal deliveries in England as reports criticise maternity care
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Caesarean births overtake vaginal deliveries in England as reports criticise maternity care
NHS figures for 2024-25 show caesarean sections have become England's most common birth method, alongside reviews finding failures in communication and informed choice.
- NHS data for 2024-25 showed caesarean births (planned and unplanned) surpassed natural vaginal births in England for the first time.
- Donna Ockenden’s report on Nottingham University hospitals NHS trust found women experience loss of autonomy, poor communication, and exclusion from decisions.
- Valerie Amos’s review of English maternity services reported that care had not adapted to older motherhood and the sharp rise in caesareans.
- The charity Birthrights reported that women are being denied genuine informed choice in birthing options.
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