Turkish Parliament Debates High Cesarean Rates Amidst Male Domination

A debate in the Turkish Parliament's General Assembly regarding issues in maternity services and high Cesarean section rates was marked by a notable imbalance, with male lawmakers taking the floor predominantly. This situation prompted a sharp reaction from DEM Party Deputy Sevilay Çelenk.

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Women's bodies, fertility, women's rights, and women's gains should be discussed within the framework of women's rights.

Çelenk expressed gratitude that a female lawmaker was given the opportunity to speak, emphasizing that discussions concerning women's bodies, fertility, and rights should be central to the conversation. Yeni Parti Deputy Asu Kaya added to the discussion, stating that medically necessary Cesarean sections are not a choice but a life-saving treatment.

The debate stemmed from a proposal by the CHP to investigate structural problems in maternity services, the causes of high C-section rates, and to identify lasting solutions prioritizing maternal and infant health. CHP Uşak Deputy Ali Karaoba highlighted the case of five obstetricians who were dismissed and banned from the profession after being sent for training, allegedly for high primary Cesarean rates. He argued that such measures penalize doctors unfairly, especially when factors like hospital conditions, staffing, and fear of malpractice lawsuits contribute to the high rates.

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Medically necessary Cesarean section is not a choice, it is a life-saving treatment.

Karaoba pointed out that approximately six out of every ten births in Turkey are C-sections, with rates reaching 78% in private hospitals, 74% in university hospitals, and 46% in public facilities. He questioned why doctors who perform normal births in public hospitals resort to C-sections in private ones. Karaoba urged an end to the pressure on obstetricians and called for a focus on providing adequate time for labor, strong midwifery support, legal security, and woman-centered care.

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Stop your hands off obstetricians and doctors.

DEVA Party Istanbul Deputy Medeni Yılmaz echoed Karaoba's sentiments, noting that C-section rates have tripled since 2003, rising from around 20% to 60%. He also observed a significant drop in normal birth rates during the same period. The discussion underscored the complex factors influencing birth practices in Turkey, including systemic pressures and the medical-legal environment.

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Stop your hands off women's bodies; their body, their decision.