Facts

National Statistics of Cesarean and VBAC Births:

• In 2004, the cesarean rate climbed to an all time high of 29.1%
• This is the highest rate in U.S. history.
• This means 3 in 10 mothers will have a cesarean.
• The cesarean rate has increased 40% in 8 years!!
• In 2004, the VBAC rate fell 16% for the second consecutive year.
• The VBAC rate is currently 9.2%
• The VBAC rate has fallen 67% since 1996!!

* Source: The Center for Disease Control's National Vital Statistics Reports, preliminary data for 2004

The cesarean rates are climbing each year. Whether this is your first baby or fifth, whether you have had a previous cesarean birth or not, The Pittsburgh Cesarean Prevention and VBAC Support Group is here to help you avoid an unnecessary cesarean birth.

The World Health Organization recommends a 10-15% cesarean rate. The Healthy People 2010 report published in 2000 set a goal of a 15% cesarean rate by 2010 and a VBAC rate of 37%

What does this mean?

• Allegheny General had a C-sec rate of 38.6% and VBAC rate of 8%
• Forbes Regional had a c-sec rate of 25.9% and a VBAC rate of 25%
• Alle-Kiski Med Center had a c-sec rate of 21.4% and a VBAC rate of 28%
• Magee had a c-sec rate of 24% and a VBAC rate of 29%
• Mercy had a c-sec rate of 28% and a VBAC rate of 21%
• Ohio Valley had a c-sec rate of 30.7% and a VBAC rate of 8%
• Sewickley Valley had a c-sec rate of 24.2% and a VBAC rate of 19%
• St Clair Memorial had a c-sec rate of 27.3% and a VBAC rate of 18%
• West Penn had a c-sec rate of 29.6% and a VBAC rate of 24%