Overview: Caesareans now the most common birth method
New figures from England reveal that Caesarean sections have become the most common form of birth in the country for the first time. In the 2024-25 period, about 45.1% of births were via Caesarean, edging out natural births. The milestone underscores a significant shift in maternity care, prompting questions about the drivers behind rising C-section rates and what it means for mothers and babies.
Understanding the trend
Several factors likely contribute to the increase in Caesarean births. These include rising maternal age, more pregnancies with pre-existing health conditions, and greater recognition of medical indications for surgical delivery. In some cases, elective Caesareans are chosen for perceived safety, scheduling convenience, or to avoid labor complications. Medical guidelines and hospital practices have also evolved, with more teams prepared to perform timely C-sections when risks to the mother or baby are identified during pregnancy or labor.
Medical indications and safety considerations
Caesareans can be life-saving when there are concerns about fetal distress, placental issues, or maternal health conditions. Specialists emphasize that the decision to perform a C-section balances immediate risks with longer-term outcomes. While the procedure generally carries a higher risk of certain complications than vaginal birth, it also reduces risks in urgent situations where vaginal delivery could threaten the child or mother.
What this means for expectant parents
The shift towards Caesarean births has practical implications for families. Recovery from a C-section can be longer and may require more support in the initial weeks after birth. Preparation, clear communication with healthcare teams, and postpartum support remain essential. Parents should discuss birth plans with their clinicians, while staying flexible if medical teams recommend a surgical delivery for safety reasons. Maternity services are continually adapting to ensure informed choices, equitable access, and high-quality care for all families.
Impact on the healthcare system
With Caesareans becoming more common, healthcare systems face implications for staffing, operating theatre availability, and postnatal care resources. Hospitals may need to allocate more recovery beds and provide enhanced pain management, infection prevention, and maternal mental health support. Policymakers and clinicians are closely watching trends to ensure that rising C-section rates align with best practices, do not unnecessarily increase risks, and reflect patient preferences where possible.
What parents should know
Key considerations for expectant mothers include understanding the reasons for a C-section, the recovery process, and the potential short- and long-term effects on both mother and baby. Evidence supports shared decision-making: parents should be informed about alternatives when safe, the possibility of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) in future pregnancies, and the availability of postoperative resources. Access to accurate information and supportive care is essential to help families make confident choices.
Conclusion
The milestone of Caesareans overtaking natural births in England marks a watershed moment in maternity care. While surgical births are sometimes necessary and life-saving, ongoing efforts to optimize birth experiences and outcomes for all families remain vital. As data settle into annual trends, clinicians, policymakers, and expectant parents can work together to ensure that every birth is as safe and supported as possible.
