Caesarean section rates in Uganda are dangerously high, putting mothers and babies at great risk

While caesareans are essential for complicated labors, the World Health Organization recommends rates between 10-15%. In Uganda, rates are much higher – 28.8% in public hospitals and 75% in private hospitals. Caesareans carry significant risks, including:

Prolonged recovery time and abdominal pain for the mother, Increased risk of maternal death, 3 times higher in public hospitals compared to vaginal delivery, Maternal complications like bladder injury, heavy bleeding, blood clots, infection Increased risks in future pregnancies like placenta previa, placenta accreta, uterine rupture Vaginal birth is important for the baby’s development. The spontaneous onset of labor ensures organ maturity.

The hormones released during labor help the baby transition to independent life, regulate body functions, and promote bonding and breastfeeding. Vaginal birth also exposes the baby to the mother’s microbiome, which is important for immune system development. Babies born by caesarean have higher rates of immune disorders like allergy, asthma and autoimmunity.

Caesareans do not prevent birth injuries like cerebral palsy. The scientific community must urgently address the misconception that caesareans are safer. Doctors, hospitals and expectant mothers need to be educated on the risks of unnecessary caesareans.

Efforts should focus on providing caesareans only when medically indicated, to bring Uganda’s rates in line with WHO recommendations and improve maternal and child health outcomes.