Thread by @WHO

Caesarean section use continues to rise 📈 globally, now accounting for more than 1 in 5 of all childbirths.

C-section can put women and babies at unnecessary risk of short- and long-term health problems if performed when there is not medical need

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C-sections are absolutely critical to save lives in situations where vaginal deliveries would pose risks. But not all those carried out at the moment are needed for medical reasons.
Unnecessary surgical procedures can be harmful, both for a 👩🏻and her👶🏻
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Caesarean sections can be essential in situations such as
✅ prolonged or obstructed labour
✅ fetal distress
✅ when the baby is presenting in an abnormal position
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There are significant disparities in a woman’s access to c- sections, depending on where in the 🌍 she lives.
In the poorest countries, especially in sub-#SaharanAfrica, millions of 👩🏿 lack access to this lifesaving surgery even when there is urgent need.
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Rather than targeting specific rates for c-section use, WHO recognizes the importance of focusing on each woman’s unique needs in 🤰🏻 and childbirth, and:
✅high quality andrespectful care
✅informed decision making for the birth
✅ongoing emotional support
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