Sexual Minority Births Face Higher C-Section Risk

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.