Apr 20, 2010

C-section rate rising down under

Health officials in Australia are attempting to understand the country's rising C-section rate, which is currently estimated to be around twenty-five to thirty percent of all births.

The World Health Organization sets the advised rate for caesarean sections at around fifteen percent. The issue is contentious because C-sections cost a hospital twice as much as a natural childbirth, according to ABC North Queensland.

In addition to the cost involved, healing C-section scars can be a problem for those who don't choose to use silicone gels as treatment.

Australia's rate is still lower than that of China, at fifty percent. Officials are trying to understand why expectant mothers increasingly opt for a caesarian over a normal birth.

Theories include the health risks of normal birth, imitation of celebrities, and obstetricians recommending them because of ease.

Samantha Lyons, who has had two caesarians, told the news source that she was recommended a second caesarian birth after her first, because the original caesarian scar can reopen or tear during natural birth.

The scars are one reason mothers may choose to avoid C-sections. However, the purchase and use of silicone-based treatments, such as silicone gel sheeting or silicone ointment, can help treat and reduce the visibility of these scars over time.ADNFCR-3015-ID-19732561-ADNFCR

 

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