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A government report released this week shows that
the number of babies born by cesarean section was up in 1999 for the third
year in a row. In addition, the American
College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) released a set of
recommendations on Thursday aimed at helping doctors and hospitals to
review and, where appropriate, reduce their rate of cesarean deliveries.
The organization devised a formula that permits
hospitals and doctors to determine their rates of cesarean section. The
calculation would be based on adjusting the total number of procedures
performed to reflect a mix of cases.
Approximately 22% of all live births in 1999 were
done by c-section, whereas the US Department
of Health and Human Services set a target rate of 15%, as part of their
"Healthy People 2000" goals.
The ACOG document, entitled "Evaluation of
Cesarean Delivery" -- also tackles other issues relating to cesarean
rates, including residency and post-residency training in vaginal operative
technique (forceps deliveries), and whether "the continuous presence
of nurses or other trained individuals who provide comfort and support
to women in labor may lead to lower rates."
American
College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Position Statement August
9, 2000
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