Written answers
Tuesday, 13 May 2025
Department of Health
Health Services
Colm Burke (Cork North-Central, Fine Gael)
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137. To ask the Minister for Health to set out of the total number of deliveries in each of the 19 maternity units, from 1 January 2025 to 31 March 2025; the number of caesarean sections in each of the maternity units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24088/25]
Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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The HSE has advised the total deliveries in January to March 2025 is as follows:
- Rotunda Hospital (2,010).
- National Maternity Hospital (1,666).
- Coombe (1,594).
- Cork University Maternity Hospital (1,581).
- University Maternity Hospital Limerick (911).
- Galway University Hospital (681).
- Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital (669).
- Mullingar Regional Hospital Mullingar (431).
- University Hospital Waterford (371).
- Wexford General Hospital (355).
- Portiuncula University Hospital (350).
- Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise (348).
- Letterkenny University Hospital (343).
- St Luke's General Hospital Kilkenny (333).
- Mayo University Hospital (317).
- Sligo University Hospital (291).
- Cavan General Hospital (288).
- University Hospital Kerry (237).
- Tipperary University Hospital (157).
The latest validated HSE data show that 21,077 women gave birth by caesarean in 2023. This equates to approximately 39.4% of births that year. This information is published annually in the Irish Maternity Indicator System report.
The rate of caesarean sections in Ireland has been increasing in recent years. The HSE has advised that certain clinical factors are contributing to this increase. This includes an increasing prevalence of gestational diabetes, obesity, and rising maternal age.
Caesarean sections are generally safe procedures. However, like any major surgery, there are risks for infection and future complications. The HSE is therefore seeking to reduce this rate where possible.
Since 2016, €28 million has been invested under the National Maternity Strategy. This investment has transformed our maternity services for women and babies. This government remains committed to the continued delivery of quality, woman centred maternity care.
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