The Health Ministry is launching a nationwide campaign to promote vaginal birth and prevent prematurity: “Vaginal birth: The miracle of life… naturally!” The drive targets the public and healthcare professionals, highlighting the value of physiological birth and prevention of preterm deliveries.
C-section rates have surged in Cyprus, reaching 60% in 2022 (41% planned, 19% emergency) and 60.7% in 2023 (41% planned, 20% emergency), according to the Health Monitoring Unit. Cyprus is among the highest in Europe and globally, as reflected in Euro-Peristat’s 2019 report. Prematurity is also elevated: 12.8% in 2022 and 12.9% in 2023.
Why it matters
Preterm birth is a major public-health challenge. The WHO estimates over 15 million babies are born prematurely each year, a rising figure. Preterm newborns face more health complications and require intensive, longer care, while families shoulder psychological, social and financial burdens. High C-section and prematurity rates also strain hospitals, staffing and budgets.
Run by the Health Ministry with the Press and Information Office, the campaign stresses that vaginal birth -when medically appropriate- offers significant, evidence-based benefits. Caesarean sections are vital and lifesaving in many cases, but they remain surgery with possible complications and should be reserved for medical indications. The initiative also underscores every woman’s right to accurate information and to a birth plan suited to her medical and personal needs.
The vision
“The National Strategy’s vision is clear: ensure healthy beginnings for every new life and uphold every woman’s right to a safe, informed and supported birth experience.” Achieving this goal, the ministry says, requires collective effort and cross-sector cooperation among health professionals, state bodies, social organisations and, crucially, women themselves.