Cesarean section and the risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: a meta-analysis

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2019 Sep;300(3):503-517. doi: 10.1007/s00404-019-05208-7. Epub 2019 Jun 11.

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the association between cesarean section (CS) and the risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov database for studies related to the association between CS and the risk of neonatal RDS up to 25 August 2018. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a random-effects model (REM).

Results: A total of 26 studies from 25 available articles were included in this meta-analysis. For the association between CS and the risk of neonatal RDS, the pooled OR was 1.76 (95% CI 1.48-2.09). The pooled OR of the risk of neonatal RDS was 2.38 (95% CI 1.89-2.99) for elective CS and 1.85 (95% CI 1.34-2.56) for emergency CS.

Conclusion: This meta-analysis suggested that CS, elective CS, and emergency CS were associated with an increased risk of neonatal RDS.

Keywords: Cesarean section; Epidemiology studies; Meta-analysis; Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cesarean Section / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Obstetric Labor, Premature
  • Pregnancy
  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / epidemiology*
  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / etiology