The number of caesarean sections performed in Cyprus remains particularly high, prompting Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides to announce a commitment to reducing these rates. Speaking on Saturday, Charalambides highlighted the necessity of a gradual approach to promote natural childbirth, which he emphasised is not merely a statistical goal but a matter of quality healthcare and the well-being of mothers and newborns.
Caesarean sections: Rising Caesarean Rates
Recent data from the health ministry illustrates a concerning trend: in 2021, 59 per cent of births in Cyprus were delivered via C-section, a figure that exceeds the EU average of below 30 per cent. This percentage has only increased, with reports indicating that in 2022, 60 per cent of 10,373 births were C-sections, and by 2023, that figure rose to 62.31 per cent.
Calls for a Coordinated Approach
Charalambides stressed the importance of a coordinated, multi-level strategy to address the rising number of C-sections. He noted that better education and support for women and their families are critical for making informed decisions about childbirth. “Our common goal is the gradual reduction of caesarean sections, with absolute respect and priority given to the safety of the mother and the newborn,” he stated.
Strategic Framework for Change
To tackle this issue, the health ministry is collaborating with scientific bodies, healthcare professionals, and patient representatives to develop a national strategy aimed at promoting natural childbirth and reducing premature births. Charalambides outlined four key pillars of this strategy: strengthening healthcare policies, improving quality, training health professionals, and providing reliable information to citizens.
Understanding the Need for Change
According to previously presented data, only 15-17 per cent of C-sections were performed to save the mother and child in 2021. Around 40 per cent were planned, while 38 per cent were conducted at the mother’s request. This underscores the necessity for ongoing dialogue and education about the implications of C-sections versus natural births.
Moving Forward Together
Charalambides advocates for a collective effort from scientists, healthcare professionals, government, and society to ensure that promoting natural childbirth remains a priority. As the strategy unfolds, the focus will remain on safeguarding the health of mothers and their newborns while addressing the rising trend of C-sections in Cyprus.
