National Rates
The Center for Disease Control has reported the following national statistics for 2005:

• The Cesarean Rate for 2006 is 31.1%, which is a rise of 3% since 2005
• The Rate is up from 27.6% in 2003
• US Cesareans have risen 50% since 1996 (from 20.7%)
• VBAC Rate fell to 9.2%
• Since 1996, the VBAC rate in the US has plummeted 67%

Read ICAN's Press Release - "Cesarean Rate Hits a New High"


Local Hospital Rates
In a time where our Cesarean Rates are double what the World Health Organization says is warranted, it is up to parents to do the research, and find the birth place that is the safest and best option for them. Part of that process of choosing a location for birth is knowing the cesarean rates. ICAN of Northern Virginia received the following information from the Virginia Department of Health. Look at this information carefully, and take it into consideration when you are deciding where you are planning on giving birth.

Compare the 2006 data with the 2005 and 2004 data to see the trends at the various hospitals in our area. That may give you a good idea of where they may be today, in 2007.