Serbia Childbirth Practices Under Scrutiny in DW Investigation

A months‑long investigation by Deutsche Welle into childbirth in Serbia has uncovered a consistent pattern of negative experiences among women giving birth, alongside the frequent use of medical practices that fall outside the recommendations of the World Health Organization. Interviews with mothers, health‑care professionals and hospital administrators reveal that many women report feeling uninformed, disrespected and subjected to interventions such as routine episiotomies and early inductions that are not universally endorsed by WHO guidelines.

The report also highlights systemic pressures on Serbia’s maternity services, including staff shortages, overcrowded facilities and limited access to pain‑relief options, which together contribute to the prevalence of non‑evidence‑based procedures. Analysts suggest that the findings point to a need for policy reforms and stronger adherence to international standards to improve the quality of obstetric care and restore confidence in the health system.