Normal Vaginal Delivery

The rising preference for cesarean delivery, often performed without medical indication, represents not only a clinical concern but a violation of women’s fundamental right to safe, natural childbirth. Normal Vaginal Delivery (NVD) remains the physiological norm for most pregnancies, while Lower Segment Cesarean Section (LSCS) a major abdominal surgery should be reserved for genuine complications such as eclampsia, placenta previa, or fetal distress. Yet, global cesarean rates now exceed 21%, with countries like Brazil, Egypt, and Turkey surpassing 50%, and Pakistan’s rates climbing from 3% in 1990 to nearly 22% in 2020. This trend reflects systemic issues: defensive medicine, profit motives, cultural misconceptions, and inadequate midwifery support. Unnecessary cesareans increase the risks of maternal mortality, placenta accreta, uterine rupture, and neonatal respiratory problems. Ensuring access to skilled midwifery and family physician-led care can reduce these risks and restore women’s autonomy in childbirth. Upholding NVD as the standard of care is not merely a medical goal it is a moral, social, and human rights imperative.