Retrospective Study on Factors that may Contribute to Cesarean Delivery in Induced Women

Date

2012-12-01

Authors

Nguyen, Dan T

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Abstract

Induction of labor is a method to help initiate or increase the rate of contractions in women who are near the end of their pregnancy. Over the years, the number of labor inductions has increased significantly for a variety of medical reasons, as well as, elective reasons (1). However, before the decision is made to have a woman induced into labor, there are several factors that should be considered, including the woman’s gestational age, status of the cervix, and any medical indication that may cause complications. Labor induction is generally performed when the potential benefits outweigh the risks of continuing the pregnancy (1). The consequence of a failed induction usually results in a cesarean section (C-section). Compared to vaginal birth, a C-section poses more potential health risks to the woman and the baby, as well as, a significantly longer recovery period for the woman. Therefore, a C-section should be recommended only when it is necessary. Studies have shown that there is a correlation between induced nulliparous women, women who had never given birth, and the rate in C-section (2-4). Other studies have examined factors such as maternal age, body mass index (BMI), ethnicity, number of previous children or parity status, and gestational age to see how they relate to the increase of C-section (5-7). This practicum examined a number of contributing factors and indications for C-section induced patients. The purpose of this study is to improve our understanding of why there is an increase in C-section deliveries among women whose labor is induced and what factors determine if a C-section is more likely.

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