Why are midwives protesting in Athens?

Midwives are protesting new hospital regulations in Athens that require doctors to supervise all childbirths, which they believe medicalizes birth and undermines their role.

What is the main concern regarding C-section rates in Greece?

Protesters are concerned that the new restrictions will increase Greece's already high C-section rate, which is 65%, far exceeding the WHO's recommended rate.

How might the new midwife regulations affect women in remote areas?

The ban on midwife-led births in health centers could be dangerous for women in remote or mountainous regions, potentially leaving them without adequate support.

Home / Health / Midwives Protest Athens Hospital Birth Restrictions

Midwives Protest Athens Hospital Birth Restrictions

5 Feb

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Summary

Midwives are protesting new hospital rules in Athens.
The rules require doctor supervision for all deliveries.
Protesters cite risks of increased C-sections and costs.

Midwives Protest Athens Hospital Birth Restrictions

Hundreds of midwives and women demonstrated in Athens on Thursday, protesting new hospital regulations that mandate doctor supervision for all childbirths. This policy shift, announced by the health ministry, has been met with fierce opposition from those who believe it undermines the role of midwives and increases the medicalization of birth.

Protesters handed over 2,000 letters to the Health Minister, arguing the restrictions will exacerbate Greece's already high C-section rate of 65%, significantly above the World Health Organization's recommended 15%. They also expressed concern that these measures would inflate costs for the public health insurance system.

Further concerns were raised about the safety of women in remote or mountainous regions, where access to immediate medical support may be limited. The ban on midwife-led births in health centers could pose risks for those far from hospitals, as helicopter transport or solitary births are not viable solutions.