Egypt announced that first-time mothers will be able to give birth naturally for free in public hospitals to make childbirth safer and less expensive for families. According to To the Ministry of Health and Population on Wednesday, May 6.
Health officials want to encourage natural births instead of C-sections common In Egypt. While cesarean sections are sometimes necessary, many cases can be avoided.
Egypt for years registered Caesarean section rates increased to 72.2 percent According to the 2021 Egypt Family Health Survey (EFHS), much of which health officials believe can be avoided. The new procedure is part of a national effort to reverse this trend by encouraging natural birth as the default option, provided there are no medical complications.
This policy is consistent with the broader health situation in Egypt strategywhich includes a dedicated framework (2022-2027) focused on reducing unnecessary surgical births and improving standards of maternity care.
Birth expenses He can It also constitutes a large burden, especially on low- and middle-income families. The first free natural birth in government hospitals is expected to expand access to basic maternity services.
Public hospitals, many of which already provide heavily subsidized or free care, are expected to play a central role in implementing this policy, ensuring that women across urban and rural areas benefit.