Caesareans May Harm Lung Growth

Babies born by elective Caesarean section are much more likely to develop breathing problems according to a Danish study examining 34,000 deliveries. Researchers found they were up to four times more likely to have respiratory problems than those born naturally, or by emergency Caesarean section. The babies may miss out on hormonal and physiological changes during labor which help mature the lungs, they say. In the UK, almost a quarter of the births are now estimated to be Caesarean sections, far above the 10% to 15% rate recommended by the World Health Organization.