The Ministry of Health has set the gradual reduction of caesarean sections in the country as a key objective, with the competent minister, Neophytos Charalambides, stressing that this is a comprehensive reform effort that is not limited to numerical indicators but directly concerns the quality of obstetric care.
According to the minister, caesarean section rates in Cyprus remain high and show an upward trend, making necessary a “coordinated, evidence‑based and multi‑level approach grounded in scientific data and international practices. When we speak about promoting natural childbirth, we are not simply referring to a numerical indicator. We are talking about quality of care, the appropriate and evidence‑based use of medical interventions and, above all, safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the mother and the newborn,” Charalambides said.
He added that, in response to this need, the Ministry of Health, in close cooperation with scientific bodies, health professionals and patient representatives, has proceeded with the formulation and implementation of a national strategy to promote natural childbirth and reduce prematurity. As he explained, the strategy is based on four main pillars: strengthening policies and improving quality in the healthcare system; training and empowering health professionals; providing accurate and comprehensive information to the public; and continuous monitoring of indicators and the promotion of research.
Particular emphasis is also placed on the documentation and full recording of the medical indications leading to caesarean delivery. Through the implementation of relevant guidelines and the utilisation of GeSY data, a reliable monitoring framework is being established, enabling the adoption of targeted and effective measures, the minister noted.
Targeted actions
Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides underlined the importance of informing women and their families so that they can make well‑documented decisions regarding the mode of delivery. As he said, public information actions have already been set in motion.
“Our common goal is the gradual reduction of caesarean sections, with absolute respect for and priority given to the safety of the mother and the newborn,” he said, adding that achieving this goal requires consistency, cooperation and continuous evaluation of interventions. At the same time, he stressed that proper information and empowerment of women and their families is of decisive importance so they can make informed choices about childbirth.
Concluding, Charalambides said that the Ministry of Health remains committed to supporting every initiative that contributes to improving the quality of health services and protecting public health, noting that progress will continue to be monitored systematically with a view to achieving tangible and measurable results.
