Natural childbirth is optimal choice for both mother's, child's health: Ministry

CAIRO - 13 June 2026: The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population emphasized the importance of natural childbirth as the optimal choice for the health of both mother and child, given its significant benefits that contribute to a healthy start for the newborn.

 

Natural Childbirth

 

The Ministry explained that natural childbirth helps the baby's lungs develop more effectively, enabling them to adapt quickly to life outside the womb. It also contributes to strengthening their immunity through exposure to beneficial bacteria as they pass through the birth canal.

 

The Ministry stressed that if there is no medical need for a cesarean section, it is preferable to allow the body to take its natural course, as this has positive effects on the mother's health and reduces complications associated with surgery.

 

Pregnant Women

 

The Ministry also urged pregnant women to visit their nearest health unit to receive proper medical advice and benefit from the awareness services offered within family counseling rooms as part of the "Golden Thousand Days" initiative, which aims to improve the health of both mother and child during the most crucial stages of development.

 

These recommendations come within the framework of the state's efforts to spread health awareness and promote sound practices, ensuring a safe and healthy start for every child.

 

 

Rates of C-section in Egypt

 

Egypt leads the world in cesarean section rates, which reached approximately 72% in 2021, according to TV statements by Dr. Doaa Al-Alfy, Deputy Minister of Health and Population for Population and Family Development Affairs on Extra news in 2025. 

 

WHO published a 2021 research paper estimating the prevalence of C-section in 6 governorates: 3 from Upper Egypt (Sohag, Assiut and Menia) and 3 from Lower Egypt (Sharkia, Beheira and Ismailia).

 

The CS rate was estimated at 55.1% for the 3 years preceding the study, and the highest rate was 67.8% in Behira and the lowest was 49.0% in Assiut. In most governorates, the CS rate was higher in rural than in urban areas, but the difference was not significant.

 

Caesarean section (CS) is a life-saving operation when vaginal delivery is risky to the mother or baby. However, if not medically indicated or performed under suboptimal conditions, it can be harmful and resource-intensive.