Cesarean Epidemic, the Forgotten Cost of Birth

Once a life-saving intervention for obstetric emergencies, the cesarean section has now become one of the most overused surgical procedures worldwide. The World Health Organization recommends a rate of 10-15%, yet global averages exceed 20%, and in Pakistan, the figure approaches 23%, with private hospitals in Sindh reporting even higher proportions. This rising trend reflects a troubling mix of medical, economic, and cultural drivers—ranging from profit incentives and defensive practices to misconceptions equating surgery with safety. The consequences are profound: increased maternal complications, infant health risks, and financial strain on families and healthcare systems. Addressing this imbalance requires evidence-based policies, midwifery-led care, and a renewed commitment to using cesarean birth only when it truly saves lives.