Rising trends in caesarean section rates: an issue of major concern in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Caesarean section rates have been on the increase for the past decades. Reasons for this increase and the danger it portends, especially in developing countries, are evaluated.

Method: Literature on caesarean sections performed in various centres in Nigeria and Western countries were retrieved through manual library search.

Results: There has been a progressive rise in caesarean section rates from the 1970s up to 2002, from 9.4% to 34.6%. Measures to reduce this rising rates were discussed.

Conclusion: There is great need to reduce the caesarean section rate in Nigeria. There should be a clear and unquestionable indication for caesarean section in any patient.