The rise in both primary and cesarean deliveries over the
past decade has gone unchecked and does not appear to be
slowing down. We predict that the rise will lead to increased
rates of maternal mortality over the next decade and beyond if
we do not either halt or reverse the trend. Clinical approaches
to reducing the cesarean delivery rate will likely need to occur
in the setting of a changing practice environment as well and
efforts made on all fronts: clinical practice, practice management,
and health policy in order to halt the rise in cesarean
deliveries.