Experts often fret at the rising rate of Caesarean section births in western countries – but new evidence suggests in some circumstances not enough of the procedures are undertaken.
The Dutch research suggests that babies in the breech position – upside down – are better off born on the operating table than delivered through an attempt at natural birth.
The major study, involving more than 58,000 women with breech babies, found that using Caesarean section cut death rates of children by 90%.
The study spanned eight years – from 1999 to 2007 – and by the end of this time some 60% of these babies were being born by the caesarean operation. At the beginning it was just 24%.
The findings were published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica.
They link the increased rate of Caesarean births to a reduction in the death rate among these babies of nearly 50%.
Researcher Dr Floortje Vlemmix, of the University of Amsterdam, said: "While elective C-section has improved neonatal outcomes there is still a good number of women who attempt vaginal birth.
"Our findings suggest there is still room for improvement to prevent unnecessary risk to the infant."
The findings were backed by the UK Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
Dr Paul Fogarty, from the college, said: “The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists currently recommends that Caesarean delivery is the safest mode of delivery for the baby when in a breech position and this study suggests neonatal outcomes might be improved with a higher rate of elective caesarean section.
“There are benefits and risks associated with both Caesarean delivery and vaginal breech birth and these should be discussed between you and your obstetrician, so that you can choose the best plan for you and your baby.”
Term Breech Deliveries in The Netherlands: Did the Increased Caesarean Rate Affect Neonatal Outcome? A Population Based Cohort Study. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 11 August 2014 [abstract]
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