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C-Sections Overtake Natural Births in England
16 Dec, 2025
Summary
- C-sections now account for 45.1% of births in England, surpassing natural births.
- Rising obesity and later-life pregnancies fuel the increase in C-section rates.
- Total births in the UK have fallen to their lowest in 23 years.
For the first time, caesarean sections have become the predominant method of birth in England, accounting for 45.1% of deliveries in 2024/25. This marks a significant shift from just 9% in 1980, while unassisted vaginal births have declined to 43.8%.
Several factors are believed to contribute to this rise, including escalating obesity rates and a growing trend of women opting for childbirth later in life, both of which can increase risks during vaginal delivery. Additionally, women who have previously had a C-section are more likely to opt for one in subsequent pregnancies.
This shift occurs as the overall number of births in the UK has fallen to its lowest point in 23 years. Experts emphasize the need for adequate staffing and resources within NHS maternity services to manage the increasing complexity of births.
