Number of C-sections in UAE much higher than advocated

High risk obstetrics and fertility issues were on the agenda as more than 100 doctors met at the 2015 Ferticare conference in Dubai.

DUBAI // The UAE has a 10 per cent higher rate of births via caesarean section than the 15  per cent benchmark set by the World Health Organisation, a healthcare conference was told.

High-risk obstetrics and fertility issues were discussed at a meeting of more than 100 doctors at the Ferticare conference in Dubai on Sunday.

Despite caesarean sections carrying risks – such as the weakening of the uterine wall – one in four in the Emirates opt for a C-section. At least half of those procedures were unnecessary, said Dr C N Purandare, president of the International Federation of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

“There way to reduce that rate is by introducing safer methods for vaginal delivery,” he said. “To reduce complications due to C-section, obstetricians must consider alternatives – like instrumental delivery, associated with high rates of successful vaginal delivery.”

He added that most lawsuits brought against doctors involve the wrong management of labour and delivery.

Errors can be reduced by improving team training, simulation and drills. Effective protocols, checklists and guidelines are also effective in minimising risk to mother and baby.

Dr Awatif Juma Al Bahar, a senior consultant at Dubai Gynaecology and Fertility Centre, discussed issues regarding infertility, particularly in women over the age of 40.

With more women delaying childbirth to pursue a career, demand for in vitro fertilisation treatment is also on the rise in the Emirates, she said.

“The chances of infertility in women over 40 increases to 29 per cent from 9 per cent in women aged 25-29,” she said. “The likelihood of women aged over 40 remaining childless also increases to 64 per cent.

“Some women overestimate the success rate of IVF, with research in Sweden claiming couples have just a 20-29 per cent chance of bearing a child using IVF techniques.”

Dr Al Bahar also touched on the psychological pressures of infertility, obstacles faced by women when seeking therapy and the reasons for dropping out of treatment.

Nutrition, stress, the use of prescription drugs and a woman’s body mass index are all major factors affecting a pregnancy after 40, she said.