Caesarean births overtake vaginal deliveries in England as reports criticise maternity care

NHS figures for 2024-25 show caesarean sections have become England's most common birth method, alongside reviews finding failures in communication and informed choice.

• NHS data for 2024-25 showed caesarean births (planned and unplanned) surpassed natural vaginal births in England for the first time.
• Donna Ockenden’s report on Nottingham University hospitals NHS trust found women experience loss of autonomy, poor communication, and exclusion from decisions.
• Valerie Amos’s review of English maternity services reported that care had not adapted to older motherhood and the sharp rise in caesareans.
• The charity Birthrights reported that women are being denied genuine informed choice in birthing options.