Maternity unit caesarean-section, induced-labour rates vary up to 75%

There are wide variations in maternity services across Ireland, according to Cuidiú, the Irish Childbirth Trust.

Some units have caesarean or induction of labour rates that are 75% higher than other units, according to its latest guide, which was published today.

It is concerned about the “very high” number of caesareans and rate of induced labour for first-time mothers. These interventions have risen since their last guide was published, in 2011.