Elective Cesarean Section Deliveries Rising
Increase of Nearly 44% From 1994-2001, Study Shows
What 'Elective' Means
The term "elective" needs a little clarification, say Meikle and colleagues.
They don't want anyone to get the impression that "elective" C-sections were scheduled just for convenience's sake.
"Elective cesarean deliveries can include medically and obstetrically indicated procedures that generally occur before labor," write researchers. "Elective cesarean deliveries can also include procedures for which there is no clear medical or obstetric indication."
'Target for Reduction'
Once a woman has had a C-section, she's more likely to have another C-section in future pregnancies.
"Primary cesarean deliveries are an important target for reduction, because they lead to an increased risk for a repeat cesarean delivery," note the researchers.