Caesarean section births have overtaken natural vaginal births in England for the first time, according to new NHS data. In 2024-25, 45% of deliveries were via C-section, compared to 44% natural vaginal births and 11% assisted with forceps or ventouse.
The data, covering April 2024 to March 2025, shows that among women aged 30 and over, caesareans were the most common delivery method, rising to 59% for those aged 40 and above. Overall, 20% of births were planned C-sections and 25.1% were emergency procedures, both record highs.
There were 542,235 deliveries in NHS hospitals during the period, down from 636,643 a decade earlier. The proportion of C-sections has risen steadily from 26.5% in 2014-15 to 42% in 2023-24, and now 45%. Experts attribute the increase to rising obesity rates, older maternal age, and more complex pregnancies.
Donna Ockenden, a senior midwife leading a major inquiry into maternity failures, said the trend reflects a “complex” picture, with many women prioritising a safe birth. She cautioned against criticising those who choose C-sections, noting that poverty and pre-existing health conditions often limit options.
Professor Soo Downe of the University of Lancashire added that some women see C-sections as the “least-worst option” due to a lack of support for natural births, including closed birth centres and unavailable midwives. However, she stressed that for others, it is a positive choice.
