23.07.2025 17:52
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu announced that there has been a decrease in the cesarean birth rate in Turkey, which has been rising for years, for the first time. Minister Memişoğlu stated that the cesarean birth rate has dropped from 62.8% to 59.9%. Memişoğlu describes this situation as "promising." In recent months, he had sparked discussions by advocating the slogan "Natural Means Normal Birth."
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu announced that for the first time, there has been a decrease in the cesarean birth rates, which have been increasing in Turkey for years. The Minister stated, "We have reduced the overall cesarean rate from 62.8% to 59.9%. We achieved a 6.8% decrease in primary cesareans."
Speaking at the "Normal Birth Action Plan" meeting held at the Ministry of Health, Memişoğlu described this situation as "promising." He reminded that the preference for cesarean delivery outside of medical necessity poses risks for both maternal and infant health, stating, "Every unnecessary cesarean means an intervention in the woman's birth experience and subsequent pregnancies."
60 THOUSAND MOTHERS REACHED WITH THE "MIDWIFE FOR EVERY PREGNANT" PROJECT
Memişoğlu stated that they have taken comprehensive steps to promote normal birth. The Minister announced that 407 midwifery clinics have been opened across Turkey, and thanks to the "Midwife for Every Pregnant" project, approximately 60,000 expectant mothers have received one-on-one support in the last 8 months.
Emphasizing the role of midwives in preparing women for childbirth, especially for those experiencing their first pregnancy, Memişoğlu said, "Our pregnant women are matched with a midwife three months before delivery, and this process is completely free."
PREGNANCY SCHOOLS INCREASED
The number of pregnancy schools opened for childbirth preparation has also been increased. Minister Memişoğlu stated, "We are serving with 1,450 pregnancy schools. Our expectant mothers receive support on topics such as pilates, breathing exercises, massage techniques, and birthing positions."
CHILDBIRTH IS NOW MORE COMFORTABLE
Additionally, Memişoğlu mentioned that the number of "Mother-Friendly Hospitals" has increased from 132 to 184, stating, "Now mothers give birth in single, comfortable rooms. Skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding are initiated without delay after birth."
MOTHERHOOD JOURNEY SUPPORTED BY MOBILE APPLICATION
With the "Motherhood Journey" mobile application developed by the Ministry, more than 500,000 expectant mothers have been reached. Minister Memişoğlu noted that they guide millions through communication efforts and digital support. At the end of the meeting, certificates of appreciation were presented to the health directorates of 81 provinces and the teams involved in the efforts.