For example,
Study highlights link between cesarean:
A vast study carried out in Sweden draws attention to an little known point: programmed cesarean births could slightly increase the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (LL). Furthermore, rare cancer in children. Nevertheless, Although this risk remains very low at the individual level. Moreover, researchers highlight the importance of better understanding the long -term effects of this type of childbirth, especially when chosen without medical reason.
A study which confirms a link already mentioned – Study highlights link between cesarean
Published in July 2025. Consequently, this study by Karolinska Institutet analyzed data of more than 2.4 million births in Sweden. In addition, The researchers observed that children born by planned cesarean – therefore planned before the start of work – had a risk increased by 29 % of developing a LL. For example, compared to those born study highlights link between cesarean by low or by emergency cesarean.
This type of leukemia is rare (50 to 70 cases per year in Sweden). Similarly, which puts impact into the individual level, but the statistical association is deemed serious on the population scale.
A real but very low risk
Do not panic: acute lymphoblastic leukemia remains a very rare disease. Consequently, In Sweden, there are about 50 to 70 cases per year. The study believes that the planned cesarean would lead to approximately one case of more than 100,000 births. In other words. the risk for a given child is very low, but it becomes visible when looking at large populations.
Why this link? Tracks on the side of the immune system – Study highlights link between cesarean
Two major hypotheses are put forward to explain this link:
- The disturbed microbiota: During a natural delivery. the baby is exposed study highlights link between cesarean to vaginal and intestinal bacteria of his mother. This natural colonization helps build the immune system. With a programmed cesarean, the baby is rather exposed to hospital bacteria, which could permanently modify his immune defenses.
- The absence of physiological stress: the passage through the vaginal channel. even if it is uncomfortable for the baby, triggers the production of hormones like cortisol, useful for the maturation of the immune system. A birth without contractions (as is the case during a programmed cesarean) would deprive the newborn of this hormonal “boost”.
These hypotheses still require research. but they reinforce the idea that the moment and the mode of childbirth can play a deep biological role.
What does the High Authority for Health (HAS) say about programmed Cesareans?
HAS, which supervises good medical practices in France, recognizes that the cesarean can sometimes be necessary and even vital. study highlights link between cesarean But she recalls that it is not a trivial act: it is a surgery with its own risks (hemorrhages. infections, future complications …).
It defines several situations where a cesarean programmed in the long term (around 39 weeks of amenorrhea) is justified:
- Baby in siege. too narrow maternal basin;
- History of several cesareans;
- Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets …) with a bad position of babies;
- Fetal macrosomy (baby estimated at more than 4.5 kg and insulin diabetic mother);
- Presence of certain viral infections, such as HIV or active herpes;
- Baby in transverse position.
In these cases, the cesarean is indicated to limit the risks for the mother and the child.
And when the request comes from the mother?
The HAS specifies that a woman can express the wish to have a cesarean. especially if she has already study highlights link between cesarean experienced a traumatic childbirth or if she strongly fears the pain. However, the doctor is not forced to accept this request. He has a duty to explain the benefits and risks of the cesarean, and can recommend another colleague if necessary. The objective is to make a shared and enlightened decision between the patient and the caregivers.
What to remember for future mothers
This study does not say that the cesarean is dangerous. nor that it should be avoided at all costs. It simply recalls that any medical intervention has effects. sometimes in the long term, and that it is important to reserve the programmed cesareans in cases where they are really necessary.
If you are waiting for a child. you are offered a cesarean, do not hesitate to discuss it with your doctor: is it essential? Are there alternatives? Each pregnancy is unique, and decisions study highlights link between cesarean must be made according to your health, that of your baby … and the latest scientific knowledge.
Further reading: Covid Long: The virus persists in the brain, causing “depression, memory disorders and anxiety”, according to a study – Different expectations shape the perception of pain in a distinct manner – Physical activity can improve the mental health of adolescents – Why could it be the beginning of a revolution – Constipation: Get out of taboo, act gently.
