Concern as c-sections in Irish maternity hospitals at double the rate elsewhere in Europe

In five hospitals, over 50% of first-time mothers were having a c-section. Picture: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

The rate of caesarean sections in many of the country's biggest maternity hospitals is now double that of Western Europe, a situation that has been described as alarming. 

More than 40% of women who gave birth in eight Irish hospitals have had a caesarean section, sparking concern that c-sections are now becoming "the accepted norm".