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Emergency caesarean births reach 26 percent in England
BBC analysis shows the share of emergency caesarean deliveries in England rose eight percentage points over five years to 26 percent. Vaginal births without instruments fell from 53 percent to 43 percent while planned caesareans reached 20 percent.
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BBC analysis of national data shows one in four births in England now occurs by emergency caesarean section. The unplanned procedures rose from 18 percent to 26 percent between 2020 and 2025. Planned caesareans increased to 20 percent of births. The share of vaginal deliveries without instruments declined from 53 percent to 43 percent.
National and international comparison England moved from 14th to 9th place among 42 countries ranked by overall caesarean rates. Other countries did not record comparable increases during the same period. Scotland recorded a 22 percent emergency caesarean rate, Wales 20 percent and Northern Ireland 16 percent. Figures for those regions are not as current as England's.
Clinical and cost data Stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates have remained largely unchanged despite the rise in emergency procedures. A health economist estimated emergency caesareans cost nearly £9,000 compared with £4,800 for a routine vaginal delivery.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said pressure on staff and operating theatres is making it harder to meet demand. NHS England stated that decisions are based on individual circumstances and clinical advice.
