Childbirth is the top reason for hospitalization in the U.S., but there is a lack of scientific evidence that many costly, high-tech procedures used in maternity care are beneficial for most women, according to a report released on Wednesday by a group of research and advocacy organizations, USA Today reports. The Milbank Memorial Fund, the Reforming States Group and Childbirth Connection released the report, titled "Evidence-Based Maternity Care: What It Is and What It Can Achieve." The report found that U.S. hospital charges for maternal and newborn care increased from $79 billion in 2005 to $86 billion in 2006. The report states that reducing use of expensive maternity techniques -- such as caesarean sections -- and increasing low-cost approaches -- such as childbirth assistants -- would not only lower medical costs but...
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