Survey has revealed that doctors are using medical interventions such as caesarean sections, induction of labour prior to 41 weeks of pregnancy, and the use of forceps or vacuum assistance during delivery where these are not required. Several Canadian medical groups said in a policy statement that doctors are putting baby and the mother at greater risk by such practices.

The new policy statement supported by the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses of Canada, the Canadian Association of Midwives, the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada stated that medical interventions in low risk pregnancies should be avoided.

It further stated that doctors should only resort to these types of interventions when there is a valid reason, and should not use them when labour and birth are progressing normally.

Gisela Becker, president of the Canadian Association of Midwives said: "We are seeing a significant increase of medical intervention during childbirth, but there is a real concern that unnecessary interventions introduce risks for mother and baby that could be prevented."