[Cesarean section: an analysis of 16,975 cases].

According to analysis of cesarean section records in the 60 s, 70 s, and 80 s, the cesarean section rate was 3.4%, 7.6% and 20.9% respectively, but the perinatal mortality rate was not lowered. In recent years, the number of cesarean section increased due to marked increase in the number of fetal distress, breech position, precious baby. There even appeared failed induction as indication. Because of the early and prompt management of every stage of labor, the complication of cesarean section was eliminated obviously. Dead fetuses and death of neonates account for about 85-90% of the perinatal mortality rate. Thus, cesarean section is not the only way to lower perinatal mortality rate. We should pay more attention to health care of pregnancy, surveillance, before and during labor and the care of newborns.