Symphysiotomy

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During the mid-20th century, births by Caesarean section (CS) was considered risky, particularly if used in multiple births. Doctors in most developed countries advised women to be sterilised after three CSs, if there was a possibility of a further pregnancy the would likely require a CS. Because of the Catholic dogma regarding sterilisation, which is considered a form of contraception, [1] [2] doctors in Ireland were unable or unwilling to perform sterilisations. Therefore, symphysiotomy was used as an alternative to CS, even though it carries with it higher risks and causes long term harm to the mother. The morality of infants was estimated at 10% and increased the chance of complications in later pregnancies. [3]

"Contraception was practised in most developed countries, making repeat problem pregnancies less common, and non-Catholic doctors advised sterilisation after three CS. Irish Catholic doctors were unable or unwilling to do this. They were aware of criticism by colleagues who believed that Catholic religious strictures disadvantaged patients. [4]"
"The procedure involves slicing through the cartilage and ligaments of a pelvic joint (or in extreme cases, called pubiotomy, sawing through the bone of the pelvis itself) to widen it and allow a baby to be delivered unobstructed. [5]"

In Ireland, the procedure was carried out on around 1,500 women from the 1940s to the 1980s. As medical knowledge increased, CS was considered to be safe for more than three pregnancies and the perceived need for symphysiotomy decreased. Some doctors have argued that the practice was not religiously motivated. [5]

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