C-Section Rates by State. Chart: HealthGrades
A new HealthGrades report on women’s health compared C-section rates from 2002 through 2010. In 2002, the percentage of C-sections 27 percent, a figure that increased steadily to 33 percent in 2009. This dramatic and continued increase has been the cause of much controversy and worry in recent years. Though C-sections can be performed as a necessary procedure to ensure the health of a pregnant mother or her baby, many attribute the sharp rise in the C-section rate to popularity of elective, or scheduled, C-sections by an expectant parent or her healthcare provider.
In 2010, C-section rates remained stable at 33 percent for the first time in eight years. Florida topped the list of states with the highest C-section rate at 38.3 percent, with New Jersey and Texas following close behind. The stabilization could be the result of a nationwide push to eliminate nonmedically indicated inductions and C-sections prior to 39 weeks of pregnancy.
According to the March of Dimes, if a pregnancy is healthy the best delivery plan for both mom and baby is to wait for labor to begin on it’s own. C-sections are major surgery and should be carefully considered with your doctor. Here are some questions you should ask your health care provider if you are considering a C-section or if your doctor suggests one.