Patient-choice vaginal delivery?

Ann Fam Med. 2006 May-Jun;4(3):265-8. doi: 10.1370/afm.537.

Abstract

Patient-choice cesarean delivery is increasing in the United States. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports this option, citing ethical premises of autonomy and informed consent, despite a lack of evidence for its safety. This increase in patient-choice cesarean delivery occurs during a time when women with a breech-presenting fetus or a previous cesarean section have fewer choices as to vaginal birth. Patient-choice cesarean delivery may become widely disseminated before the potential risks to women and their children have been well analyzed. The growing pressure for cesarean delivery in the absence of a medical indication may ultimately result in a decrease of women's childbirth options. Advocacy of patient-choice requires preserving vaginal birth options as well as cesarean delivery.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breech Presentation
  • Cesarean Section*
  • Decision Making*
  • Elective Surgical Procedures
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Patient Advocacy
  • Personal Autonomy*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Risk Factors
  • Vaginal Birth after Cesarean