India's Rising Caesarean Rates Raise Calls for Dignified Childbirth

A Caesarean section, or C-section, is an operation used to deliver a baby.

It can be very important when a mother or baby faces a serious medical problem.

But the article says too many operations may be taking place in some Indian hospitals.

C-section rates are especially high in many private hospitals.

In other areas, low rates may mean women cannot reach hospitals or receive emergency care when they need it.

Unnecessary operations can cause health problems for mothers and babies.

The article says money, scheduling and fear of lawsuits may sometimes influence decisions.

It recommends that hospitals publish their birth statistics and explain delivery choices clearly to pregnant women.

It also calls for privacy, consent and respectful treatment during childbirth.