European C-section rates vary widely; Hungary shows high rates, prompting calls for systemic reform and better care.
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In Europe, 3.88 million babies were born in 2022, with nearly one-third (1.14 million) requiring a C-section, though rates vary significantly between EU member states. Cyprus has the highest rate of C-sections per capita, while Hungary ranks sixth among EU countries for the number of C-sections performed. In Hungary, 40.86% of births in state hospitals in 2023 were C-sections, a slight improvement from over 42% in 2019. Conversely, some countries like Finland report only 16% C-section rates. Differences in C-section rates are attributed to necessary medical interventions versus elective procedures driven by physician or patient convenience, sometimes linked to overworked staff and hospital pressures, including those during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts suggest that improving infrastructure and reforming the education system are key to changing this trend. In Hungary, the ban on lump-sum payments in 2021 limited patient choice, but C-section rates have not significantly decreased; instead, private care has become more popular, yet C-sections remain high due to scheduling ease for medical staff. Generational differences and socioeconomic status also influence birth choices, as seen in Spanish data. The WHO has expressed concern over unnecessary interventions. Other EU nations are experimenting with different models, such as giving mothers greater choice or restructuring care around midwives. Experts advocate for modernizing Hungarian maternity infrastructure, including more labor rooms and allowing partners to be present, alongside legislative action to reduce C-sections.
