Is Childbirth Safer in Private Hospitals for Women and Babies?

Recent research published in the BJOG journal has brought to light important considerations regarding childbirth safety in Australia, comparing outcomes between public and private hospital settings. The study analyzed data from over 360,000 births across New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria between 2016 and 2019, aiming to understand the differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes.

The findings indicate that women delivering in public hospitals faced higher risks of complications such as hemorrhaging, third or fourth-degree perineal tears, and were less likely to have cesarean sections compared to those in private facilities. Conversely, babies born in public hospitals were more prone to oxygen deprivation, admission to intensive care, and even neonatal death. However, these results must be interpreted cautiously, considering the numerous social and medical factors that influence pregnancy outcomes.

Women who choose private care are often more socioeconomically advantaged, with higher incomes and better access to healthcare resources. Although efforts were made to match populations, some variables like drug use, mental health, BMI, and smoking were not fully accounted for, which can significantly impact outcomes. Additionally, certain interventions like episiotomies are more common in private sectors.

The study highlighted a higher rate of cesarean sections in private hospitals—47.9% compared to 31.6% in public hospitals. Early planned cesareans before 39 weeks were also more prevalent in private care. While cesareans are generally safe, they carry risks for future pregnancies and potential long-term effects for children, including developmental issues linked to early birth.

Australia's healthcare system offers two main options: a publicly funded system providing free or low-cost care in public hospitals, and a private system where patients with insurance seek care in private hospitals, often at varying costs. Care models vary from fragmented approaches involving multiple providers to continuous care, such as midwifery-led care, which women favor for better outcomes.

Despite the complexities, most women in Australia give birth safely, thanks to the country’s high-quality healthcare system. Nevertheless, informed choice remains vital, and women should have access to comprehensive information about their birthing options and associated risks. Ensuring equitable access to different models of care continues to be a challenge and an area for improvement.

While research identifies differences in outcomes, it’s crucial to recognize that individual circumstances vary widely. Factors like social advantage, lifestyle, and health status influence birth results, underscoring the importance of personalized maternity care decisions.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-childbirth-safer-women-babies-private.html