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Why C-sections are on the rise in UAE?

Dubai - The highest rate of C-sections globally was 50 per cent.

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Doctors' fears of litigation that could arise from complications in normal deliveries are among one reason why Caesarean sections (C-sections) are increasing in the UAE, a health expert has opined.

Speaking to Khaleej Times on the sidelines of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Regional (Figo) Congress of Middle East & Africa, which commenced in Dubai on Wednesday, Dr Amala Nazareth, secretary general, Emirates Obs & Gyne Society and Member of Figo, said that doctors are being over cautious in carrying out 'normal deliveries', which last for hours and could have complications that could possibly lead to law suits in cases where women have the choice between both types of deliveries.

"If there are any complications during normal delivery, we as doctors could be asked as to why we did not recommend a C-section," she said.

"Therefore, even as it is an obstetrician's responsibility to push for a normal vaginal delivery, they would rather recommend a C-Section," she said, adding that forceps delivery was a dying art.

Prof. C.N. Purandare, president of Figo, said: "The UAE has its share of challenges when it comes to women's health, although it is far more developed than low-resource countries. For instance, as per news reports, the Cesarean section rates in the UAE are at 42 per cent, much higher than the global average, and increasing the risks of complications."

Dr Amala added: "Of these cases, a significant amount are elective procedures."

The highest rate of C-sections globally was 50 per cent.

Dr Amala also said that frivolous lawsuits were instilling a fear in doctors. "This can hold back treatments since the lawsuits last two to three years and a doctor is considered a criminal in civil and criminal courts until proven otherwise."

She also said that as per the UAE laws, doctors are guilty until proven innocent in procedures that could take up to three years.

Dr Amala also said that though a necessity, medical insurance was making people desperate. "It also raises doubts and fears in patients."

She said that doctors should be given courage to practise. "Healthcare does not depend on insurance coverage but on trust with a doctor so insurance should not be made all and all," she said.

According to Dr Amala, the conference was highlighting such issues and discussing guidelines which can be developed into health policies.

Among other reasons on why the incidences of C-Sections were rising, Dr Amala said that fertility issues among women, unhealthy lifestyles, fibroids, endometriosis and other difficulties to conceive were among the causes.

Dr Amala added that medicine is not a perfect science and there will be complications.

Other issues discussed

Critical health issues pertaining to women across the world were discussed at the three-day meeting being held from April 11 to 13 at the Intercontinental Hotel. They included technological, clinical and legal solutions for issues related to Obs-Gyn, maternal mortality, endocrine disorders, gestational diabetes, pre-term labour and other pregnancy-and child-birth related complications.

"Rising incidences of diabetes, obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - which affect approximately 50,000 women in the country - also cause problems during pregnancy and childbirth," said Prof. Purandare, president of Figo,

"This calls for medical and support staff that is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to address these challenges. Through this conference, we aim to educate our medical community, not just in the UAE, but globally," he said.

Speakers also emphasised the severe impact of criminalisation of doctors, and its negative effect on the healthcare industry and patients at large.

Dr Awatif Juma Al Bahar, medical director, DGFC and consultant Obs/Gyn & Endocrine Infertility, Dubai Health Authority, and president of Emirates Medical Association, said: "The UAE is focusing on woman and child healthcare and as part of that we are promoting the continuous medical education for doctors, medical and paramedical in the UAE and the region."

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com