The number of babies born via caesarean section in Wales reached a record high of 42% in 2025. This figure compares to approximately 45% in England.
Mothers who have undergone C-sections, a major surgical procedure, have reported feeling unsupported during their recovery after returning home from hospital. Carys Louise Brandon, from Swansea, who had an emergency C-section in 2022, stated she was unprepared for the recovery and had many unanswered questions.
A Welsh government report published in February highlighted the rapid increase in caesarean sections and inductions, noting that the consequences for women, their families, and the NHS had not been evaluated. The report also raised concerns about staffing and support within maternity services, particularly in postnatal care.
The Welsh government has committed to a three-year programme of improvements, stating that every woman should receive high-quality postnatal care tailored to her needs. However, Julie Richards, director of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) in Wales, said maternity services have not kept pace with the changing landscape, and that midwives are stretched, impacting postnatal care.