What did the Columbia University study find about C-section rates?

The Columbia University study found that sexual minority individuals have a 7% higher risk of undergoing a C-section compared to the general population.

Why might sexual minority people have a higher risk of C-section?

Researchers suggest that the use of assisted reproduction technologies, which are linked to higher C-section odds, may contribute to this disparity.

What does the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists say about C-sections?

The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists has called for a reduction in unnecessary C-sections due to increased health risks for mother and child.

Home / Health / Sexual Minority Births Face Higher C-Section Risk

Sexual Minority Births Face Higher C-Section Risk

17 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Sexual minority individuals have a 7% higher risk of C-section.
Heterosexual individuals with same-sex experience face a 12% C-section risk.
Assisted reproduction might contribute to higher C-section rates.

New research indicates that individuals identifying as sexual minorities are more likely to experience Cesarean births. The study, published in The Lancet Regional Health, found a 7% elevated risk for C-sections in this population. Notably, heterosexual individuals with past same-sex experiences faced a 12% risk, which further increased to 21% if labor was induced.

Researchers hypothesize that assisted reproduction techniques could be a contributing factor to these higher C-section rates, as previous studies have shown a link between these technologies and increased C-section occurrences. The study utilized data from over 102,000 pregnancies in the U.S., analyzing detailed sexual orientation measures and birth outcomes.

This disparity, particularly pronounced after labor induction, raises concerns about potential provider bias in medical decision-making. Experts emphasize the need for future research to explore individual, interpersonal, and structural factors. Clinicians are urged to be mindful of potential biases that could inadvertently increase unwarranted Cesareans in this group, thereby improving health outcomes and aligning with national goals to reduce primary C-section rates.