Abstract: Objective：To explore the effective intervention in reducing the caesarean rate in Haimen City. Methods：Comprehensive intervention measures entitled ′encouraging natural birth, reducing the caesarean rate′ were implemented, including strengthening health education, improving service agency management in relation to midwifery skills, implementing free maternal care policy, following strictly caesarean indication, as well as establishing and implementing routinely the rewards and punishment rules by the health administrative department. Results：The caesarean rate in Haimen City was reduced from 73.39% between October 2010 and May 2011 （pre-intervention period） to 55.48% in 2012 and 54.86% in 2013, indicating a remarkable achievement. Conclusions：Comprehensive intervention measures, especially establishing and implementing routinely the rewards and punishment rules by the health administrative department played a key role in controlling the rising caesarean rate in Haimen City.

Key words: Universal precautions, Natural childbirth, Cesarean section