Neonatal outcomes following one previous caesarean section

Abstract

Background/Aims Vaginal birth following a previous caesarean section is considered a safe option for subsequent births following personal planning and counselling. The aim of this study was to compare neonatal outcomes for both elective caesarean and vaginal birth after a previous caesarean section to aid decision making for women/pregnant people. Methods This quantitative study used retrospective data from low-risk pregnant people/women at term with one previous caesarean section (n=392). Logistic regression was used to determine the impact of mode of birth on neonatal outcomes. Further descriptive analyses were carried out to explore the results and reasons for admission to neonatal unit. Results Apgar scores were higher in the vaginal birth group compared to the elective repeat caesarean group. There were no differences in neonatal unit admissions by mode of birth. Conclusions There is minimal difference in neonatal outcomes, regardless of intention for either vaginal birth following a previous caesarean section or elective repeat caesarean. To fully investigate the factors that impacted Apgar scores and neonatal unit admissions for these groups, a much larger sample is needed.