Turkish doctors warn cesarean crackdown risks women's health
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Turkish medical experts warned that government audits and sanctions targeting high cesarean rates are being driven by unscientific claims and political pressure. Istanbul Medical Chamber official Irmak Saraç said about 700 doctors' files are under review, while six have already faced penalties. Activists said the 'normal birth' campaign creates social pressure on women and could endanger lives.
Key Facts
- Istanbul Medical Chamber official Irmak Saraç said about 700 doctors' files are under review after six doctors faced sanctions over high cesarean rates.
- Saraç said a dietitian's claims linking cesarean births to SMA and Type 1 diabetes have no scientific basis.
- Saraç attributed rising cesarean rates to privatization of the health system and a decline in qualified midwives, not women's preferences.
- Women's rights activist Edin Güven said the 'normal birth' campaign creates social pressure on women and could endanger lives.
Medical Community Response
Istanbul Medical Chamber general secretary and obstetrician Irmak Saraç criticized a dietitian's statements linking cesarean sections to SMA and Type 1 diabetes. Saraç said the claims have no scientific basis and reflect the government's population and family policies. She noted that because the person who made the claims is not a physician, the Istanbul Medical Chamber cannot initiate professional disciplinary action.
Causes of High Cesarean Rates
Saraç rejected explanations that women choose cesarean sections to avoid pain or choose delivery dates. She said the main cause is privatization of the health system, with rising patient satisfaction expectations in private hospitals. Saraç also cited a decline in qualified, experienced midwives and the weakening of the midwifery profession as factors negatively affecting delivery services.
Sanctions and Political Pressure
Saraç drew attention to a meeting between Turkish Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics President İsmail Mete İtil and Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu. She said six doctors have faced sanctions and about 700 doctors' files are under review. Women's rights activist Edin Güven said promoting vaginal birth as 'normal birth' is a political choice that creates social pressure on women. Güven warned that unscientific and discriminatory guidance could endanger women's lives.
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